Information about humanitarian visas
If you would like to bring an at-risk relative to Switzerland or apply for a humanitarian visa for yourself, here you find information on the procedure.
Advisory service closed
We closed our advisory service in mid-December 2021. Having analysed developments with regard to legal access to international protection, the SRC decided to channel its expertise and resources into family reunification. We remain in contact with the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) in our search for solutions to provide individuals whose lives or physical integrity are in danger with access to international protection.
What is a humanitarian visa?
In Switzerland, humanitarian visas are issued by the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM). To be eligible for a Swiss humanitarian visa, an individual’s life or physical integrity must be directly, seriously and tangibly endangered. The connection to Switzerland is an important factor. You can find more information in the Prerequisites section.
The application must be submitted in person at a Swiss representation (embassy or consulate).
Prerequisites
A humanitarian visa can only be issued if the following prerequisites are met:
The individual’s life and physical integrity is directly, seriously and tangibly endangered in their home country or country of origin.
The individual is clearly in direct danger and not merely at risk because they belong to a potentially endangered group.
The individual no longer has any other options and their personal situation requires the urgent intervention of the Swiss authorities.
Other important factors
Connection to Switzerland
There are prospects of integration
It is not possible to seek protection in another country
PLEASE NOTE
Consider the benefits and risks carefully
Applying for a visa is expensive and entails high risks. If there is no Swiss representation in the country where you are currently staying, you will need to travel to a third-party country. We therefore recommend you think carefully about the benefits and risks before making a decision.
Procedure
Costs
The Swiss representation does not charge for humanitarian visas. But applying for a visa is nevertheless very expensive. Depending on where you are, you will need to undertake a long, dangerous journey. You will also need to arrange and pay for translations of your application documents. If the representation must arrange for an interpreter, you may be required to cover the costs.
Appeal or complaint
If the Swiss representation has refused the application, an appeal may be submitted to the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM). There is then the opportunity to file a complaint with the Federal Administrative Court.
If you want to submit an appeal or a complaint, we recommend you seek the advice of a lawyer. However, be careful with anyone who promises you a positive outcome. The procedure is very strict.