5 Steps To Getting New Pages In Your U.S. Passport In Switzerland

I'm coming to the point where I don't feel like I am having a lot of new experiences in Switzerland. However, getting new passport pages definitely counts. To make it easier for everyone else that might be looking to do the same, let me give you my punch list of things to do.

1.) Fill out the application form on the web and print it.

2.) Pick a time to go to the Embassy in Bern a 15 minute walk from the main station. Remember counter service is only opened from 9:00 - 11:30 Monday through Friday.

3.) Don't bring a bag, if you need one leave it at the train station in a locker. This includes purses, no purses for the women. If you bring a bag they make you walk around the corner and leave it at a bakery that will charge you a couple of francs to hold it for you.

4.) Yes you should go and stand in the line that says Visas.

5.) Cut to the front of the line. If you are American you get first priority because the embassy is there to provide services to U.S. citizens. It feels a little weird but go in the line to the left, you may be the only person in that line, and will cut ahead of 15 people applying for visas, but it is your right so take advantage of it.

Just to be clear, you will be allowed inside with your papers, a mobile phone, and it might be good to stash a small book or something to read in a jacket pocket just in case.

Once inside you take a number and the process of getting additional pages only takes about 30 minutes if there is no line. It is much less painful than I thought and the service was great.

Hope this helps and happy travels.