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Bern

South Africa embassy & consulates in Switzerland

Visa required$5,750/moSOS 118Updated Nov 9, 2026
Quick answer

South Africa has 1 diplomatic mission(s) in Switzerland: Embassy (Bern).

Entry rules for South Africa passport holders → Switzerland:Visa required
Photo: de:Benutzer:Reaast · Public domain · Wikimedia Commons

South Africa missions in Switzerland

Entry rules for South Africa passport holders

SwitzerlandVisa required

Visa rules change often. Always confirm with the official embassy or government site before you travel. Source: Passport Index dataset (MIT), refreshed Nov 9, 2026.

Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for Switzerland?South Africa passport power

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Document checklist: South Africa → Switzerland

General guidance for a short trip. Requirements change, so confirm with the official sources linked below.

  • Passport valid for at least 3 months after you leave the Schengen area and issued within the last 10 years.
  • Completed visa application form.
  • Recent passport photos.
  • Travel medical insurance with at least €30,000 coverage valid in all Schengen countries.
  • Proof of sufficient funds (bank statements of the last 3–6 months).
  • Employment letter or proof of business/studies.
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation).
  • Return or onward ticket.

Only use the official government portal. Many look-alike sites charge extra.

Apostille or legalisation?
Apostille is enough
South Africa → Switzerland
Driving licence abroad
Carry an IDP (1968 Vienna format) with your national licence.
South Africa → Switzerland

Applying for a visa? Switzerland missions in South Africa

  • embassy of Switzerland in South AfricaEmbassy · Pretoria · +27 12 452 06 60See all
    Schengen visa statistics at this consulate
    Year 2025
    Applications
    8,223
    Visas issued
    7,228
    Refused
    908
    Refusal rate
    11%
    Multiple-entry share: 54%
    Source: European Commission, visa statistics for consulates

Frequently asked questions

Is there an embassy of South Africa in Switzerland?

Yes. South Africa has 1 diplomatic mission(s) in Switzerland: Embassy (Bern).

Where is the South Africa embassy in Switzerland?

The South Africa embassy in Switzerland is located at Alpenstrasse 29, 3006 Bern, Bern.

Do citizens of South Africa need a visa for Switzerland?

Visa required. Visa rules change often. Always confirm with the official embassy or government site before you travel.

How do I contact the South Africa embassy in Switzerland?

Phone: +41-31-350-13-13, +41 31 3501313. Email: bern.consular@dirco.gov.za, bernadmin@dirco.gov.za. Website: http://www.southafrica.ch/.

Does South Africa have consulates in Switzerland?

No separate consulate is on record; consular services are handled by the embassy.

What should I do if I lose my passport in Switzerland?

Report the loss to the local police (emergency: 118), then contact the South Africa embassy or consulate in Switzerland for an emergency travel document. Bring ID copies and a police report.

What are the opening hours?

Mo-Th 08:00-12:30; 13:15-17:15; Fr 08:00-14:00; Sa-Su off; PH off