Here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions.
The international relations offices of the HES-SO schools, whose contacts can be found in the list on the right in PDF format, are at your disposal to provide further information and advise you on the steps to take before and during your stay.
Nationals of a European Union or European Free Trade Association (EU/EFTA) country
EU/EFTA citizens do not need a visa.
Non-EU/EFTA nationals
First of all, it is important to determine whether a visa is required. Students who require a visa should apply to the Swiss representation closest to their place of residence abroad around 4 months before the start of their stay.
Following their arrival in Switzerland, all incoming students must register with the relevant cantonal immigration authority within 14 days in order to apply for a residence permit.
It will take a few weeks for the permit to be issued.
For further information about residence permits, please contact the relevant authority in the canton where you will be living:
Fribourg
Service cantonal de la population et des migrants
Geneva
Office cantonal de la population
Neuchâtel
Service des étrangers
Valais
Service de l'état civil et des étrangers
Foreign students wishing to stay in Switzerland for more than three months must be covered by the appropriate health insurance. However, there are differences depending on citizenship:
Nationals of a European Union or European Free Trade Association (EU/EFTA) country
For nationals of EU/EFTA countries, there are three possible solutions:
- Be in possession of a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) that allows the holder to be exempt from compulsory insurance under the bilateral agreements between Switzerland and the European Union (Bulgaria and Romania are not included).
For further information: - Have insurance coverage equivalent to that provided by Swiss health insurance. An application for exemption from compulsory insurance must still be submitted to the relevant cantonal authority.
Learn more:
Be affiliated with a Swiss health insurance company. Some HES-SO schools offer special arrangements for exchange students. Please contact the international relations office of your host school if you have any questions on this subject.
Non-EU/EFTA nationals
If you are a national of a non-EU/EFTA country, there is only one solution: You must join a Swiss health insurance fund.
Some HES-SO schools offer special arrangements for exchange students.
Please contact the international relations office of your host school if you have any questions.
Third-party liability (TPL) insurance covers you against any damage or injury caused to a third party. It is not compulsory but strongly recommended.
Note that most landlords require tenants to provide a certificate of third-party liability insurance.
If you will be taking part in an internship, please check with your employer whether liability insurance is included in your contract.
Housing is generally quite expensive in Switzerland. However, prices vary widely from place to place.
Each HES-SO international relations office is able to help you find housing, either in the form of addresses of potential accommodation, or because they rent or own apartments.
For further information, please contact the international relations office of your host university.