India Visa RequirementsFor Switzerland passport holders
Swiss citizens must obtain an e-Visa before traveling to India. The e-Tourist Visa (USD 25) is applied for online and grants double-entry stays of up to 90 days.
Switzerland passport holders must apply for an electronic visa (eVisa) online before traveling to India.
Apply for the Indian e-Visa at indianvisaonline.gov.in at least 4-7 days before travel. Fee: USD 25 for e-Tourist Visa (up to 90 days, double entry). Complete the online form, upload passport photo and passport scan, pay by card. You receive an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) by email; print it and carry it to India. Entry through designated airports only (all major international airports are included).
Entry Requirements
Passport Validity
6 months beyond date of entry
Blank Pages
2 blank pages required
Multiple Entry
Single entry only
Work Permitted
No - requires work visa
Required Documents
For Your Visa Application
e-Visa Approval Letter
Apply at indianvisaonline.gov.in at least 4-7 days before travel. Fee: USD 25. Print the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) email and carry it with your passport to India.
Passport-Size Photograph
A recent colour passport photo uploaded during e-Visa application. Carry a physical copy in case it is requested on arrival.
Proof of Onward Travel
Return or onward ticket confirming you will leave India within the e-Visa validity. Required for e-Visa application and at immigration.
Travel Insurance Recommended
Strongly recommended. Indian private hospitals offer excellent care but can be costly. Travel insurance covering medical evacuation is advisable.
Proof of Accommodation Recommended
Hotel booking or host invitation letter for your stay in India. May be requested during e-Visa application review.
Required at Entry
Valid Swiss Passport
Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date into India. Must have at least 2 blank pages for entry/exit stamps.
Sufficient Funds Recommended
Bank statement or card showing funds adequate for your stay. May be requested at immigration.
Current Travel Situation
Switzerland to India: What You Need to Know
India and Switzerland have maintained warm bilateral relations since India's independence, with Switzerland historically providing development assistance and technical cooperation. Today, the relationship is more balanced: Swiss companies (Nestlé, ABB, Novartis, Roche) have major Indian operations, and India is a significant source of IT professionals and students in Switzerland. India is a top spiritual, cultural, and adventure destination for Swiss travelers. The e-Visa system significantly simplified entry procedures compared to the previous embassy-based visa application.
How to Get There
Fly ZRH or GVA to DEL (New Delhi) or BOM (Mumbai) with Swiss via one stop, or Emirates/Qatar/Etihad via Gulf hubs, typically 9-14 hours. Air India also operates flights from Frankfurt with connections from Switzerland. Within India, IndiGo and SpiceJet offer cheap domestic connections.
Money & Banking
India uses the Indian Rupee (INR). ATMs widely available in cities; carry cash for rural areas, temples, and local transport. Cards increasingly accepted in hotels and urban restaurants. India is very affordable; budget INR 2000-5000 (EUR 22-55) per day for mid-range travel.
Practical Tips
Print your e-Visa approval letter and carry it alongside your passport. India has specific rules: e-Visa holders must enter and exit through designated ports. SIM cards require Aadhaar or passport registration; buy from Jio or Airtel at the airport. Arrange travel insurance covering medical evacuation. Book trains through IRCTC well in advance; popular routes sell out fast. Stomach issues are common; stick to bottled water and cooked food.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Swiss citizens need a visa for India?
Yes. Swiss citizens must apply for an Indian e-Visa before traveling to India. The e-Tourist Visa costs USD 25 and is processed online at indianvisaonline.gov.in.
How do I apply for the Indian e-Visa?
Apply at indianvisaonline.gov.in at least 4-7 days before travel. Complete the form, upload your photo and passport scan, and pay USD 25 online. You receive the ETA by email; print it.
How long does the India e-Tourist Visa allow me to stay?
The e-Tourist Visa allows a stay of up to 90 days per visit, with double entry, valid for 1 year from issue. For longer stays or different purposes, a full visa from the Indian Embassy is needed.
What is the best time to visit India?
October-March is the best season for most of India (cooler and dry). The Himalayan regions (Leh, Manali) are best June-September. The monsoon (June-September) floods many plains areas but is spectacular in Kerala and for festivals.
Do I need to drink bottled water in India?
Yes. Tap water is not safe to drink for visitors. Use sealed bottled water for drinking and brushing teeth. Avoid ice in drinks outside reputable hotels. Street food from clean, busy stalls is generally safe.
What is the IRCTC and why does it matter?
IRCTC (Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation) is the official booking portal for Indian trains. Register an account before travel and book train tickets in advance; popular routes (Delhi-Agra, Mumbai-Goa) sell out quickly.
How much should I budget for India?
India is very affordable for Swiss travelers. Budget INR 2000-5000 (EUR 22-55) per day for mid-range accommodation and food, including an occasional splurge on a heritage hotel.