Switzerland

Switzerland is not in the EU, but thanks to the agreement on the free movement of persons, EU/EFTA citizens do not need a visa. You do need a residence permit for non-working persons:

• you register at the municipal office or the cantonal migration office (depending on the canton) within 14 days of arrival at the latest,
• you show confirmation of admission to a recognised institution, proof that you have enough money to support yourself (so that you won't need social assistance) and health insurance that includes accident cover,
• the permit is issued for the length of your studies or for one year; it is extended automatically until the end of your studies as long as you still meet the conditions.

Students from outside the EU/EFTA need a national (type D) student visa before entering. You apply at the Swiss embassy or consulate in your country of residence – the University of Zurich advises doing so at least three months before you plan to arrive, and the visa takes at least 8 weeks to be issued. You will need, among other things, your admission letter, proof of financial means, health insurance with accident cover, a study plan, a motivation letter, a CV, proof of language skills, proof of accommodation and a confirmation that you will leave Switzerland at the end of your studies. The amount of money you must show is set by the canton – for example, the canton of Zurich requires CHF 21,000 a year, so check the requirement of the canton where you will study. After arrival you register at your place of residence within 14 days and receive a B residence permit.

Health insurance is compulsory in Switzerland, and you must take it out within three months of arrival. As an EU/EFTA student with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) who does not work, you can ask the cantonal office for an exemption from Swiss insurance. Students from other countries can also apply for an exemption if they have private insurance with cover equivalent to Swiss insurance.