Switzerland’s visa outsourcing partner, VFS Global, has introduced a stringent new document-only policy for Schengen visa applications submitted through its centres — a change already prompting concern among experienced travelers and visa consultants.
“Only the Checklist. Nothing Else.”
“Here’s the thing: starting now, VFS Global will only accept documents that are explicitly listed in the official visa checklist for your category. No supporting extras. No backup explanations. If it’s not on the list, it won’t be taken.”
Under this new regulation, applicants can no longer submit any documentation beyond that enumerated in the official checklist—no property deeds, tax filings, investment records, or explanatory financial letters are permitted. This restriction has potential implications for applicants with non-standard income profiles, including freelancers, retirees, digital nomads, homemakers, and newly self-employed professionals.
Official Schengen Checklist – What Remains Consistent
VFS Global has affirmed that only the following documents will be accepted for a short-stay Schengen visa via Switzerland:
- Visa application form: digitally completed, signed, and submitted through the Swiss visa portal
- Passport: issued within the last 10 years, valid for at least three months beyond the intended return date, and containing at least two blank pages
- Passport-size photo: recent, coloured, white background
- Cover letter: clearly stating travel purpose, itinerary, and sponsor details (if applicable)
- Travel medical insurance: minimum € 30,000 coverage valid across Schengen countries
- Proof of travel arrangements: round‑trip flights and confirmed accommodation bookings
- Bank statements: first and last three pages only from the most recent three months (statements in full are not permitted)
- Employment, business, or student documents: salary slips, NOCs, business registrations, or academic enrollment letters
- Documentation for minors: birth certificate, parental consent, and passport copies of both parents
Why This Matters – Impact on Applicants
1. Reduced Flexibility for Non‑traditional Profiles
Previous opportunities to contextualize income—through documents like property papers, freelance contracts, or supporting letters—are now disallowed. Travel advisors warn this may lead to an increase in visa rejections, especially for those whose financial background doesn’t fit standard employment templates.
2. Bank Statement Restrictions
Applicants must redact middle pages of recent bank statements unless the first and last three pages alone provide sufficient balance and transaction evidence. Excess pages will simply not be accepted at the VAC.
3. Critical Role of the Cover Letter
With the elimination of supplemental documents, the cover letter becomes the primary tool for conveying unusual circumstances. Applicants must be concise and compelling within its limited format.
4. Potential Route via Other Schengen States
Visa professionals suggest that those with compelling yet non-standardly documented cases might consider applying through countries still permitting extra documentation.
What Applicants Should Do Now
- Match every submission to the official checklist: no extras beyond what is stated will be reviewed.
- Check bank statements carefully: submit only the first and last three pages from the most recent three months.
- Craft a clear cover letter: explain travel purpose, itinerary, and financial support within the restricted document framework.
- Evaluate alternative Schengen visa routes: countries like Austria or the Netherlands may still allow supplementary paperwork in select cases.
Switzerland’s updated visa policy through VFS Global represents a major shift toward document rigidity. For applicants whose circumstances don’t align with conventional criteria, this change significantly narrows opportunities to make a case for entry. Meticulous preparation and strict adherence to the checklist are now non-negotiable — and the difference between approval or refusal may depend on mastering this new inflexible system.
