<p>Hello,
I am an American citizen studying abroad in Switzerland next semester starting January 30th. I have submitted my student visa application, but have not yet been approved. I want to fly to Switzerland on December 18th to spend time with friends. For that first month, I'll basically be a tourist, not a student until January 30th. My question is, is it possible for me to receive my student visa when it is approved while in Switzerland? I mean, if I'm not a student until January 30th, shouldn't I be able to enter Switzerland before that without my student visa?<br>
Thanks, any help is greatly appreciated.</p>
<p>You probably already figured out the answer – in your case, you need to get a student visa from the Swiss consulate before you go.</p>
<p>You’re gonna love it! Switzerland is awesome!</p>