Switzerland Visa Requirements for US Citizens: Schengen Entry 2026

Americans can visit Switzerland visa-free for 90 days within any 180-day period. Switzerland is part of the Schengen Area but NOT the European Union — this confuses many travelers. Starting Q4 2026, you'll need ETIAS travel authorization (€7, valid 3 years). Here's what you need to know about visiting Switzerland in 2026.

Do US Citizens Need a Visa for Switzerland?

No, US citizens do not need a visa to visit Switzerland for tourism or business purposes if staying less than 90 days. This visa-free access is part of the Schengen Agreement.

Is Switzerland Part of the EU or Schengen?

Switzerland is:

• ✅ Part of the Schengen Area (days count toward your 90/180 limit)
• ❌ NOT part of the European Union (EU)
• Uses its own currency (Swiss Franc, not Euro)
• Has its own immigration policies for non-Schengen matters

Why it matters: Days in Switzerland count toward your Schengen 90/180 limit along with France, Germany, Italy, and 23 other Schengen countries.

How Long Can Americans Stay in Switzerland?

Americans can stay in Switzerland for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. This is the standard Schengen rule.

The 90/180 rule uses a rolling 180-day window, not a calendar period. Use our free Schengen calculator to track your days accurately.

Switzerland Entry Requirements for US Citizens

To enter Switzerland visa-free, you need:

1. Valid Passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry to Switzerland.

Critical: Switzerland strictly enforces the 6-month passport validity requirement. This is stricter than most other Schengen countries (which require only 3 months beyond departure).

2. ETIAS Authorization (Starting Q4 2026)

Starting in late 2026, Americans will need ETIAS to enter Switzerland:

• Cost: €7 (approximately $7.50, paid in Euros even though Switzerland uses Swiss Francs)
• Validity: 3 years or until passport expires
• Processing: Completed online in minutes
• Required for: All Schengen countries including Switzerland

3. Proof of Sufficient Funds and Onward Travel

You will need sufficient proof of funds and a return plane ticket.

Do Days in Switzerland Count Toward My Schengen Limit?

Yes. Even though Switzerland is not in the EU, it is part of the Schengen Area. Days spent in Switzerland count toward your 90/180 Schengen allowance.

Example: If you spend 30 days in Switzerland, you have 60 days remaining to spend in other Schengen countries (France, Germany, Italy, etc.) within that 180-day period.

Can I Work in Switzerland on a Tourist Visa?

No. The visa-free entry is for tourism and business visits only. You cannot:

• Work for a Swiss employer
• Establish residence
• Study long-term (courses over 90 days)

Business visits are allowed, including attending meetings and conferences, but you cannot receive payment from Swiss sources.

Currency and Cost of Living

Switzerland uses the Swiss Franc (CHF), not the Euro, even though it borders EU countries.

High cost of living: Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in the world. Budget accordingly:

• Meals: CHF 15-30 for a basic restaurant meal
• Accommodation: CHF 100-300+ per night in major cities
• Transport: CHF 20-50+ for intercity train tickets

Currency Declaration

• No restrictions on bringing or taking currency in/out of Switzerland
• Authorities may question amounts over CHF 10,000

Mountain Activities and Safety

Switzerland is a popular destination for skiing, hiking, and mountain climbing.

Important:

• Alpine hazards are common year-round (avalanches, landslides, falling rocks, sudden weather changes)
• Safety standards are excellent, but not all hazards will have warning signs
• Mountain rescues can be extremely expensive
• We recommend insurance coverage that includes mountain search and rescue
• The Swiss Air Rescue Organization (REGA) offers membership that waives rescue costs

What If I Want to Stay Longer Than 90 Days?

If you've used your 90 days, you must leave the entire Schengen Area for 90 days before you can return for another 90-day period.

Options to stay longer:

• Student visa (for courses over 90 days)
• Work visa (requires Swiss employer sponsorship — very difficult to obtain)
• Residence permit (for retirees with sufficient funds)

Note: Switzerland has extremely strict immigration policies. Long-term visas are much harder to obtain than in most EU countries.

Avoiding Overstays

Overstaying your 90-day limit can result in:

• Fines and potential entry bans
• Deportation
• Bans from re-entering the Schengen Area

Track your days: Use our free Schengen calculator to ensure you stay within the 90/180 limit.

Frequently Asked Questions

See FAQ schema below for structured answers

Last verified: February 13, 2026 from travel.state.gov