Switzerland is due to enter the Schengen Area on 1st November 2008. The target date for implementation of Schengen (entry into force of the operational cooperation) remains the preferred date by the Federal Council, namely 5 December 2008.

However, this date is subject to approval by the European Council. Approval depends on the favorable outcome of the current Schengen evaluation of Switzerland’s performance. If the evaluation is favorable, Swiss diplomatic representations will be authorized to issue Schengen visas from 5 December 2008.

Please be advised that visas issued by Switzerland before the entry into force of the Schengen Convention will remain valid for the entry into Switzerland but not for the entry into the Schengen states area.

On the contrary, Schengen visas issued by other member states before the entry into force of the Schengen Convention will be accepted for entry into Switzerland from the date of implementation of Schengen (see above).

As of immediate effect, please use the Schengen visa application form when applying at the Consulate General of Switzerland. However, please be advised that Schengen visas will only be issued as of the date of implementation. Before that date, the Consulate General of Switzerland is authorized to issue visas to Switzerland only.