The Schengen visa always must be applied for at the competent Embassy/Consulate of the Schengen state where most of your time is spent.

Applications for short stay visas (visas C) must generally be lodged in person during the opening hours (Mo-Fr. 9 am to 1pm). An appointment is not needed. Applicants from Western Australia, Northern Territory and Pacific Islands should contact the Consulate General of Switzerland by email for further information prior to start the application process.

Australian citizens can enter the Schengen area (Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain and Sweden) as a tourist or on business without any visa for a maximum stay of 90 days or less within a 6 months period.

Be aware of the following: If you do overstay these 90 days and you decide to depart from an international airport from Switzerland, a hefty fine might apply.

Basically there are two types of visas:

Short term Schengen visas (visas C) that allow the holder to move freely within the entire Schengen area for up to 90 days within a period of 6 months and provided that he or she does not engage in a gainful activity.

Long term Residence Permits (visas D) that are generally linked to a specific purpose (e.g. study, work) entitle the holder to remain in Switzerland for an extended period of time. However, with such a Residence Permit you are also entitled to travel within the entire Schengen area for up to 90 days.

If you reside in Australia, Papua New Guinea, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Solomon Islands, Tuvalu as well as in Vanuatu and Switzerland is your main destination the following documents must be submitted to the Consulate General of Switzerland in Sydney.

The Consulate General of Switzerland in Sydney is also competent to issue Schengen visas if your main destination is Hungary.

To apply for a short term Schengen visa for Hungary please refer to the information provided under "how to apply for a tourist / visitor / business visa".

To apply for a long term residence permit for Hungary please contact the competent Hungarian Embassy in Singapore.