National Long-Stay Visa (Type D)
Non-EU/EFTA nationals authorised to live in Switzerland who need an entry visa to collect their residence permit.
The National Long-Stay Visa (Type D) is a Swiss visitor & short stay visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~CHF 100 (€88); free for students enrolling in degree studies) and processing time (~8-12 weeks (after cantonal authorisation)), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the National Long-Stay Visa (Type D) is for
Non-EU/EFTA nationals authorised to live in Switzerland who need an entry visa to collect their residence permit.
Leads to the residence permit (L/B/study) that was approved by the canton.
National Long-Stay Visa (Type D) - eligibility criteria
- Prior approval of a residence permit by the cantonal migration office
- Valid passport and completed national visa application
- Proof of the purpose of stay (work contract, enrolment, family)
- Biometric data submitted at the consulate
National Long-Stay Visa (Type D) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the National Long-Stay Visa (Type D) (Switzerland) is ~CHF 100 (€88); free for students enrolling in degree studies, with an indicative processing time of ~8-12 weeks (after cantonal authorisation). Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at State Secretariat for Migration (SEM).
| Type | Entry visa |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | At a Swiss embassy/consulate abroad after cantonal approval |
| Length of stay | Single entry to take up an approved residence permit |
| Work rights | Per the underlying permit |
| Study rights | Per the underlying permit |
| Government fee | ~CHF 100 (€88); free for students enrolling in degree studies |
| Processing time | ~8-12 weeks (after cantonal authorisation) |
| Route to PR | Leads to the residence permit (L/B/study) that was approved by the canton. |
Pathway & next steps
Leads to the residence permit (L/B/study) that was approved by the canton.
Many applicants also compare Permit B (non-EU) · B Permit for Third-Country Nationals (Resident Worker), Student · Residence Permit for Study, Family (Spouse) · Family Reunification - Spouse / Registered Partner. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Swiss route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common National Long-Stay Visa (Type D) pitfalls we fix
National Long-Stay Visa (Type D) - frequently asked questions
How much does the National Long-Stay Visa (Type D) cost?
The National Long-Stay Visa (Type D) government fee is ~CHF 100 (€88); free for students enrolling in degree studies. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) before applying.
How long does the National Long-Stay Visa (Type D) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~8-12 weeks (after cantonal authorisation). Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the National Long-Stay Visa (Type D) lead to permanent residence?
Leads to the residence permit (L/B/study) that was approved by the canton.
Can I work on the National Long-Stay Visa (Type D)?
Work rights: Per the underlying permit.
Who can apply for the National Long-Stay Visa (Type D)?
Non-EU/EFTA nationals authorised to live in Switzerland who need an entry visa to collect their residence permit.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Switzerland government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) - official Switzerland immigration authority