British Embassy Bern

The British Embassy in Bern serves as the United Kingdom's diplomatic mission to Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein. The embassy processes visa applications for residents of both countries, provides consular services to British nationals, and supports commercial and cultural cooperation between the UK, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.

The consular section provides services for British nationals including emergency travel documents, registration of births and deaths, notarial services, and assistance during emergencies. The embassy maintains a 24/7 emergency line for British nationals requiring urgent assistance. Services include support for British nationals who are hospitalized, arrested, or victims of crime. The embassy provides lists of English-speaking medical professionals and lawyers. Passport renewals for British nationals are processed through HM Passport Office in the UK, with tracking available through the embassy. The consular team works closely with Swiss authorities to assist British nationals throughout Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Advance appointments are required for most consular services.

Switzerland offers a stable, highly developed market for UK investment with strong rule of law, skilled workforce, and strategic location in central Europe. Key investment sectors include life sciences, medtech, fintech, cleantech, and professional services. The embassy's commercial team provides information on Swiss investment climate, tax frameworks, and cantonal incentives for foreign investment. Switzerland's pharmaceutical and biotech clusters around Basel attract UK life sciences investment. Financial technology growth in Zurich and Geneva presents opportunities for UK fintech companies. The embassy facilitates introductions to Swiss government agencies, investment promotion offices, and business development organizations. UK companies including GlaxoSmithKline, AstraZeneca, and numerous financial services firms maintain significant Swiss operations.

The British Council collaborates with the embassy to promote UK education and cultural exchange. Switzerland hosts numerous international schools teaching British curriculum and maintains strong academic partnerships with UK universities. The embassy supports student mobility programs and research collaboration between UK and Swiss institutions. Cultural events including film screenings, literary events, and art exhibitions strengthen bilateral cultural ties. The embassy facilitates partnerships between UK and Swiss cultural institutions and promotes British arts and culture throughout Switzerland. Educational advising services help Swiss students understand UK university application processes and visa requirements for study in the UK.

All consular services require advance appointments booked through the online system on gov.uk. Visa appointments must be scheduled directly through TLScontact's website. Walk-in visits are not accepted except for genuine emergencies. Business inquiries can be submitted through the embassy's commercial section contact form. Emergency consular assistance for British nationals is available 24/7 by calling the embassy main number. Visitors must present valid photo identification for security screening. The embassy building has limited parking; public transportation is recommended.