Originally Posted by
Fly-Swiss
If you are a US citizen, you don't need a visa and you can stay for 3 months in Switzerland. So I would suggest you try an hotel outside the airport.
I believe this is a situation involving a non-US passport. I wondered how it works for Egyptian citizens that are transiting and hold a visa for the US or UK; and this is what I found for connecting via Switzerland if an Egyptian citizen flying via ZRH to the US or UK (not necessarily applicable) and not a US resident:
ALSO CHECK DESTINATION INFORMATION BELOW
SWITZERLAND (CH)
Visa not required if:
- continuing to a third country within 48 hours; and
- holding confirmed onward ticket and documents required for
next destination.
However, it is recommended to obtain visa prior to arrival.
Leaving the airport only allowed with agreement of border
police. Passport will be withheld until departure.
Fee at ZRH airport (cash only):
- CHF 40.- if continuing the same day or thereafter (max. 48
hours);
- CHF 20.- if travelling in groups of min. 6 persons.
Exempt are children in parent's passport and children under 16
years.
Fee at GVA airport (cash only): CHF 40.-.
Exempt are children in parent's passport and children under 18
years.
Fee must be paid in Swiss francs. No credit cards or cheques
accepted.
For a US resident (i.e., non-US citizen with permanent residency in the US) entry is like
mcgahat said.