Schengen visa for a stay of up to 90 days
Important: The Embassy informs you that the waiting time for a Schengen visa appointment is 5 weeks.
Important Information
Following a regular public procurement procedure conducted by the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, a new contract has been awarded for the operation of Visa Application Centres. As of 1 July 2025, visa applications for Switzerland will be processed by VFS Global, the newly appointed external service provider.
A new website providing comprehensive information on the visa application process, required documentation, service fees, and available services will go live on 24.04.2026 and can be accessed via the following link.
Appointment bookings will open 24.04.2026. Please note that appointments can only be scheduled from this date onwards.
We kindly ask all applicants to refrain from attempting to book an appointment until the system is officially active.
Visa Implementing Decision and Increased Visa Fee
In accordance with Art. 25a of the Visa Code (cooperation on the readmission of irregular migrants) and based on a report of the European Commission, Schengen area Member States decided to temporarily adopt an implementing decision with respect to The Gambia. Visa fee was increased to 80 EUR.
When applying for a Schengen visa, citizens of The Gambia are required to observe the following:
- all applicants must present all supporting documents when applying for a Schengen visa
- holders of diplomatic and service passports must pay the visa fee
- period to decide on an application is extended to 45 days (as opposed to 15 days)
- only a single-entry Schengen visa can be issued
Gambian citizens living aboard applying for a Schengen visa also pay a visa fee of EUR 80. (The amount is collected in XOF)
Do I need a Schengen visa?
ID and visa provisions according to nationality for a stay of up to 90 days.
Where to apply for a Schengen visa?
List of authorities or agencies competent for your visa application according to your place of residence.
Application for Schengen visa and procedure
Requested documentation to submit with your application for a stay of up to 90 days.
Schengen visa fees
Information regarding the Schengen visa fees.
Schengen and your personal data
Information regarding the SIS, registration of your personal data and the authorities or persons who have access to it.
Application procedure for urgent medical purposes (fast-track)
Expedited appointment schedule and checking process for medical or humanitarian purposes (urgent medical treatment, serious accident, loss in the family, etc.).