Asylum applications from abroad

Asylum applications from abroad and visas on humanitarian grounds

Under the current Asylum Act, asylum applications cannot be submitted abroad. However, foreign nationals who must leave their home country for compelling reasons may apply for a visa at a Swiss diplomatic representation abroad. A visa on humanitarian grounds may be granted if the applicant is considered to be in imminent and serious danger of bodily harm. People who are already in a third country are not considered to be at risk.

The diplomatic representation that receives a visa application examines whether it meets the conditions for granting a visa on humanitarian grounds. In case of doubt, applications can be submitted to the State Secretariat for Migration in Bern. If the applicant cannot reasonably be expected to stay in their home country any longer, the Swiss authorities issue an entry visa.

Last modification 01.03.2019

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