Switzerland Visa RequirementsFor Cape Verde passport holders
Cape Verdean passport holders need a Schengen visa to visit Switzerland. Switzerland is a Schengen member but not an EU state, and has no embassy in Cape Verde. Travelers apply through the Portuguese Embassy in Praia or the Swiss Embassy in Senegal.
Cape Verde passport holders require a visa to enter Switzerland.
Switzerland has no embassy in Cape Verde. Apply at the Portuguese Embassy in Praia (confirming they handle Swiss Schengen applications) or at the Swiss Embassy in Dakar, Senegal. Standard Schengen documents: application form, two photos, EUR 30,000 travel insurance, confirmed bookings, and bank statements. Fee: approximately CHF 80 to 90 (USD 87 to 98). Processing: 15 business days. Switzerland is notably expensive; demonstrate strong financial capacity.
Switzerland is part of the Schengen Area. Your stay counts toward the 90-day limit within any 180-day period for the entire Schengen zone. Learn more about Schengen rules →
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
3 months beyond departure from Schengen
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Current Travel Situation
Cape Verde to Switzerland: What You Need to Know
Switzerland is part of the Schengen Area despite not being a European Union member, and Cape Verdean citizens need a Schengen Type C visa for short stays. Switzerland does not maintain an embassy in Cape Verde, requiring applicants to use another Schengen country's mission.
The Portuguese Embassy in Praia is the most practical application point for Cape Verdean travelers, given the shared language and the established relationship. The Swiss Embassy in Dakar, Senegal is another option.
Switzerland's Alpine scenery, cities of Geneva and Zurich, and proximity to Liechtenstein and France make it a popular multi-destination Schengen trip component. The visa fee is slightly higher than standard Schengen at approximately USD 87 to 98.
Practical Tips
Switzerland is one of the most expensive countries in Europe; your bank statements should reflect sufficient funds for the duration of your stay (budget at least USD 150 to 200 per day). The Swiss Embassy in Dakar is an alternative if the Portuguese Embassy in Praia cannot process Swiss applications. A Swiss Schengen visa is valid for Liechtenstein as well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Cape Verdean citizens need a visa for Switzerland?
Yes. Switzerland is part of the Schengen Area and Cape Verdean passport holders must obtain a Schengen Type C visa before visiting. The visa allows stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Is Switzerland in the EU?
No. Switzerland is not an EU member but has joined the Schengen Area through a bilateral agreement. Cape Verdean citizens still need a Schengen visa to enter Switzerland.
Where do Cape Verdean citizens apply for a Swiss Schengen visa?
Switzerland has no embassy in Cape Verde. Apply at the Portuguese Embassy in Praia (if they process Swiss Schengen applications) or at the Swiss Embassy in Dakar, Senegal.
How much does the Swiss Schengen visa cost for Cape Verdean citizens?
The Swiss Schengen visa costs approximately CHF 80 to 90, roughly USD 87 to 98. This is paid at the embassy handling your application.