FAQ – Frequently asked questions

School pupils resident in Switzerland
School pupils from third countries, whose travel documents and/or residence permits do not entitle them to enter a member state of the EU or EFTA without a visa can nevertheless travel without a visa, if a list of the schoolchildren is presented in the context of school excursions. For travel to countries that are not full members of the Schengen area (i.e. Great Britain, Ireland, Romania, Bulgaria, Cyprus and Liechtenstein), pupils should enquire at the respective embassy if the country in question recognizes the school list issued by Switzerland.

The list is only valid for school pupils younger than 18 years. The school pupils are required to travel as a member of a group and need to be accompanied by a minimum of one teacher.

School pupils who are holders of a residence permit type N, F or S can also be added to such a list. If the pupil does not hold a valid travel document, the list is accepted as a valid travel document if it contains a photo of the pupil.

The list of schoolchildren as well as further information can be obtained from the competent  migration office.

School pupils resident in an EU or EFTA member state
School pupils from third countries resident in an EU or EFTA member state may enter Switzerland without a visa if a list of the schoolchildren, issued by the competent authorities of the respective EU or EFTA member state, is presented.

The list of school pupils is recognized as a valid travel document by Switzerland if it contains a passport photo of the pupil.