GoWHV

Relocating to Switzerland

Official Working Holiday Visa information for United States citizens wishing to live and work in Switzerland.

Application Portal

Apply via Swiss State Secretariat for Migration (SEM). As a citizen of United States, you may be eligible for the Working Holiday Visa to Switzerland.

Official Requirements

Valid passport (min. 12 months validity)

Age 18â€“30

Proof of sufficient funds for the stay

All-risks health insurance valid in Switzerland

WHV bilateral agreement confirmation or Letter of Support

How to Apply

1. Download the 'Application for a long-stay visa (visa D)' from the Swiss SEM website or your nearest Swiss representation.

2. Attach proof of the WHV bilateral agreement and a Letter of Support if required by Switzerland.

3. Submit the complete application in person at the Swiss Embassy or Consulate in your home country.

4. Await processing â€” Swiss visa decisions typically take 6â€“8 weeks.

Common Pitfalls & Expert Advice

Submitting a Visa C (short-stay Schengen) form instead of the correct Visa D (long-stay). Insurance must cover 'all risks' within Switzerland â€” standard European travel insurance is usually insufficient. The original wet-ink signature is mandatory on paper forms.

Swiss Embassy / Consulate (in your country)

Official Website: https://www.sem.admin.ch/

Application Note: Apply in person at the Swiss representation. Processing takes 6â€“8 weeks. Do not book travel until approved.

Switzerland Work Guide