Switzerland
Destination Guide
Switzerland has been a member of the Hague Apostille Convention since 1972, so a Korean MOFA apostille is the only certification needed — no legalization at the Swiss Embassy in Seoul is required. Switzerland has four national languages — German (spoken in about 65% of cantons), French (Romandy), Italian (Ticino), and Romansh — and the translation language must match the canton where documents are submitted. Switzerland is not an EU member and has its own residence and work permit system administered by the State Secretariat for Migration (SEM) and cantonal migration offices. Whether you are applying for a Swiss B or L permit, gaining admission to ETH Zurich or EPFL, registering a marriage at a Zivilstandsamt, or beginning Swiss citizenship proceedings, our specialists handle apostille and certified translation into German, French, or Italian.
Step-by-step instructions for each Korean document you need apostilled for Switzerland.
Does Switzerland accept MOFA apostille? Is Swiss Embassy legalization needed?
Yes. Switzerland has been a Hague Convention member since 1972. A Korean MOFA apostille is fully accepted by all Swiss cantonal and federal authorities. You do not need to legalize documents at the Swiss Embassy in Seoul — the MOFA apostille alone is sufficient.
What language must the certified translation be in for Swiss authorities?
It depends on the canton. German-speaking cantons (Zurich, Bern, Basel, Lucerne, etc.) require German translation. French-speaking cantons (Geneva, Vaud, Neuchâtel, Fribourg, etc.) require French translation. The Italian-speaking canton of Ticino requires Italian translation. For federal authorities, German or French is generally accepted. Always confirm the language requirement with the specific cantonal authority before submitting.
What Korean documents do I need for a Swiss B or L work permit?
Swiss cantonal migration offices and the SEM typically require apostilled Korean degree certificates (학위증) with certified translation into the canton's language, and sometimes an apostilled criminal background check (범죄경력조회서). The employer usually initiates the permit application on your behalf, but the apostilled documents supporting your qualifications must be submitted as part of the application package.
What do ETH Zurich and EPFL require from Korean applicants?
Both ETH Zurich and EPFL require apostilled Korean academic transcripts and degree certificates for international admission to master's and doctoral programs. ETH Zurich conducts instruction primarily in German and English; EPFL in French and English. Transcripts must typically be accompanied by a certified English or German translation (ETH) or French translation (EPFL). Confirm current requirements on the university's official admissions page.
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