In a significant update for travelers, students, business professionals, and immigrants in Canada, the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs has awarded a new contract to VFS Global for the operation of Visa Application Centers (VACs) for Switzerland and multiple Schengen countries. These centers will begin operations starting September 4, 2025, in two major Canadian cities: Vancouver and Montreal.
This change is more than just administrative—it brings real, practical benefits for applicants across Canada.
What’s New? Centralized Visa Processing Through VFS Global
The result of a formal public procurement process, the new contract makes VFS Global the primary external service provider for visa submissions for several European nations. Here’s how the coverage is split:
| Visa Application Center | Countries Covered | Provinces/Territories Served |
|---|---|---|
| Vancouver VAC | Switzerland, Germany, Austria, Liechtenstein, Slovenia, Finland, Spain | British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Northwest Territories, Yukon Territory |
| Montreal VAC | Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Finland | Quebec, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, Manitoba, Nunavut |
Who Will Benefit from This Update?
This shift is aimed at improving the efficiency, accessibility, and consistency of visa applications in Canada. Here’s a breakdown of who gains the most:
1# Short-Term Travelers: Tourists, business visitors, and family visitors to Switzerland or Schengen Area countries now benefit from simplified, centralized services with faster document handling and clearer application procedures.
2# International Student: Students planning to study in Switzerland or the EU/Schengen region can expect smoother processing with enhanced customer service from VFS Global, a widely trusted global outsourcing partner.
3# Skilled Workers and Professionals: Professionals applying for Swiss residence or work permits benefit from centralized documentation, transparent service fees, and better tracking of application progress through the new system.
4# Canadians with European Travel Plans: Canadian passport holders don’t currently need a visa for short stays (less than 90 days) in the Schengen Zone—including Switzerland—but will soon face new pre-travel steps.
Important Note for Swiss Visa Applicants: ETIAS Is Coming in 2026
Although Canadian citizens currently enjoy visa-free short-term access, a key change is on the horizon. Beginning in Q4 2026, ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) will become mandatory for Canadians and other non-EU, visa-exempt nationals entering Schengen countries for up to 90 days.
ETIAS Highlights:
- Applies to all visa-exempt travelers, including Canadians
- Pre-travel registration required online
- Linked to your passport electronically
- Valid for 3 years or until passport expiry
Why it matters: Canadians who once traveled freely must now plan ahead and register before arrival, or risk being denied entry.
Centralized Services = Better Access & Experience
VFS Global’s appointment ensures the visa process will become:
- More organized: Region-based VAC assignments prevent long queues and application confusion.
- Digitally enhanced: A new website with clear guidance on forms, fees, and steps.
- Applicant-friendly: Personalized support services, document tracking, and customer care.
Final Takeaway
Starting September 4, 2025, VFS Global will officially handle visa applications for Switzerland and multiple European countries in Vancouver and Montreal, enhancing service delivery across Canada (Ref). Meanwhile, Canadians planning to travel to Europe in late 2026 or beyond should prepare for the upcoming ETIAS system.
Whether you’re a student headed to ETH Zurich, a tourist exploring Swiss Alps, a worker moving to Zurich, or a Canadian making short trips to Europe—these changes mean faster, smarter, and more secure travel planning is now in motion.