The Embassy of the Democratic Republic of the Congo in Bern serves as the sole Congolese diplomatic mission in Switzerland, representing the interests of one of Africa's largest nations. Located in the Kirchenfeld diplomatic quarter of Bern at Sulgenheimweg, the embassy maintains bilateral relations between the DRC and Switzerland and provides essential consular services to Congolese nationals throughout Switzerland. The embassy plays a crucial role in facilitating diplomatic dialogue, promoting economic cooperation, and supporting the Congolese diaspora community in Switzerland. As Switzerland hosts numerous international organizations in Geneva, the embassy also coordinates with these bodies on matters concerning the DRC.
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Visa Services
The embassy processes all visa applications for individuals planning to visit the Democratic Republic of the Congo from Switzerland. Applicants must schedule an appointment in advance and submit a completed visa application form, valid passport with at least six months remaining validity, two recent passport photographs, proof of yellow fever vaccination (mandatory for DRC entry), confirmed travel itinerary, and proof of accommodation in the DRC. Business visa applicants require an official invitation letter from a Congolese company or organization. The embassy recommends applying at least two to three weeks before intended travel, as processing times can vary. Visa fees must be paid in Swiss Francs. All visitors to the DRC must possess valid yellow fever vaccination certificates.
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Consular Services
Congolese citizens residing in or visiting Switzerland can access comprehensive consular services at the embassy, including passport issuance and renewal, national identity card services, civil status registration (births, marriages, deaths), document legalization and authentication, and emergency assistance for Congolese nationals in distress. The embassy provides notarial services for legal documents and assists with repatriation matters when necessary. Swiss citizens and companies can obtain document legalization services for papers intended for use in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. All consular services require appointments, which should be scheduled by calling the embassy directly.
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Business Support
The embassy actively promotes economic relations between Switzerland and the DRC, facilitating business connections and providing support for Swiss companies interested in the Congolese market. The DRC possesses extraordinary mineral wealth, including significant deposits of cobalt, copper, diamonds, gold, and coltan—minerals essential for modern electronics, electric vehicles, and renewable energy technologies. The embassy can provide market information, facilitate business introductions, and assist with investment inquiries. Switzerland has maintained economic ties with the DRC, particularly in mining, infrastructure, and development cooperation sectors. The embassy works to strengthen these commercial relationships and support sustainable development initiatives.
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Special Notes
All visitors must make appointments before visiting the embassy—walk-in services are not available. Yellow fever vaccination is absolutely mandatory for entry to the DRC, and proof must be presented with all visa applications. The security situation in certain regions of the DRC requires travelers to consult current travel advisories from the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) before planning trips. The embassy is located in Bern's diplomatic quarter and is accessible by public transportation. When visiting, arrive punctually for scheduled appointments and bring all required documents. For the most current visa fees, processing times, and specific requirements, contact the embassy directly by phone or check their official website, as procedures and fees may change.