New Biometric Passport System Launched
The Embassy now offers enhanced biometric passports with chip technology for improved security and faster border crossings.
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Geneva - Switzerland
Strengthening diplomatic ties between the DRC and Switzerland while providing comprehensive consular services to our citizens abroad
Representing the DRC at the United Nations and international organizations in Geneva since 1962
From mining to agriculture, explore investment possibilities in one of Africa's most resource-rich nations
Apply for tourist, business, or transit visas with our streamlined online process
Renew your passport or apply for emergency travel documents
Schedule your consular appointment online for faster service
24/7 support for Congolese nationals in distress
Stay informed about the latest developments, events, and announcements from the Embassy
The Embassy now offers enhanced biometric passports with chip technology for improved security and faster border crossings.
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Diplomatic
Join us in March for a major business forum promoting trade and investment opportunities between our nations.
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Cultural
Celebrating the rich artistic heritage of the DRC with contemporary and traditional works by Congolese artists.
Read MoreComprehensive diplomatic and consular services for citizens and international partners
Visa processing, passport renewal, civil registration, and document legalization for Congolese nationals and foreign applicants.
Learn MoreMaintaining and strengthening bilateral relations between the DRC and Switzerland through political dialogue and cooperation.
Learn MoreRepresenting DRC interests at UN agencies, WHO, WTO, and other international organizations based in Geneva.
Learn MorePromoting economic opportunities, facilitating business partnerships, and supporting investment in the DRC.
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The Embassy of the Democratic Republic of the Congo in Geneva serves as the primary diplomatic mission representing the DRC in Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein. Located in the international district of Geneva, we facilitate diplomatic relations and provide essential services.
Geneva, as a global hub for diplomacy and international organizations, provides a strategic platform for the DRC to engage with the international community on matters of peace, human rights, and sustainable development.
The Embassy of the Democratic Republic of the Congo in Geneva is accredited to the Swiss Confederation and maintains permanent missions to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva. Our comprehensive mission encompasses:
The Embassy is strategically located at Avenue de France 23, 1202 Geneva, in the heart of the international district near the United Nations headquarters at Palais des Nations. Our consular jurisdiction covers the entire territory of Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein.
Avenue de France 23
1202 Geneva, Switzerland
+41 22 919 10 40
Monday - Friday
09:00 - 17:00
Consular: 09:30 - 12:30
Switzerland
Liechtenstein
UN Organizations
The Embassy operates through several specialized departments, each dedicated to specific aspects of our diplomatic mission:
The Democratic Republic of the Congo established diplomatic relations with Switzerland shortly after gaining independence on June 30, 1960. The Embassy in Geneva was officially opened in 1962 to maintain close ties with Switzerland and to participate effectively in the multilateral diplomacy centered in Geneva.
Over the decades, the Embassy has played a crucial role in representing DRC interests during various international conferences, peace negotiations, and human rights discussions held in Geneva. The mission has evolved to meet changing diplomatic needs while maintaining its core commitment to serving the Congolese people and advancing national interests.
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary
His Excellency Paul Empole Losoko Efambe was appointed as Ambassador of the Democratic Republic of the Congo to Switzerland in September 2023. He brings over 25 years of extensive experience in international diplomacy, multilateral relations, and development cooperation.
Prior to his appointment in Geneva, Ambassador Paul served as Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York, where he played a key role in negotiating several international agreements on behalf of the DRC. He has also served in diplomatic postings in Brussels, Paris, and Washington D.C.
He holds a Master's degree in International Relations from the University of Kinshasa and a Diploma in Diplomatic Studies from the Centre d'Etudes Diplomatiques et Stratégiques in Paris. He is fluent in French, English, Spanish, and Lingala.
Strengthening political dialogue and cooperation between the DRC and Switzerland across all sectors.
Promoting Swiss investment in DRC's mining, agriculture, and infrastructure sectors.
Facilitating scholarships and academic partnerships between Congolese and Swiss institutions.
Coordinating with Swiss humanitarian organizations for development assistance in the DRC.
Discussed enhancement of bilateral trade agreements and cooperation on climate change initiatives.
Presented the DRC's report on human rights progress and challenges at the 45th session of the HRC.
Hosted the first Congolese Diaspora Forum in Geneva to strengthen ties with nationals abroad.
All foreign nationals wishing to enter the Democratic Republic of the Congo must obtain a visa prior to travel, except for citizens of countries with visa exemption agreements. The Embassy in Geneva processes visa applications for residents of Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
For leisure travel, visiting family, or tourism purposes in the DRC.
For business meetings, conferences, commercial activities, and investment exploration.
For educational purposes, academic research, and internship programs.
For employment and professional activities in the DRC.
| Visa Type | Duration | Entries | Fee (CHF) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Visa | 30 days | Single | 150 | 5-7 days |
| Tourist Visa | 30 days | Multiple | 250 | 5-7 days |
| Business Visa | 30 days | Multiple | 200 | 7-10 days |
| Business Visa | 90 days | Multiple | 300 | 7-10 days |
| Student Visa | 1 year | Multiple | 180 | 10-15 days |
| Work Visa | 1-2 years | Multiple | 350 | 15-20 days |
| Transit Visa | 7 days | Single | 100 | 3-5 days |
Fill out the form below for visa-related inquiries. For new applications, please use our online portal.
The Embassy now issues enhanced biometric passports compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. These passports feature an electronic chip containing the holder's biometric data for enhanced security and faster immigration processing.
Valid for 5 years
CHF 150
For regular citizens
Valid for 5 years
CHF 200
For government officials
Valid for 5 years
CHF 250
For diplomats & officials
For urgent travel due to emergency situations (medical, death, etc.). Valid for single journey to DRC only.
| Service Type | Standard Processing | Expedited Processing | Emergency |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Passport | 4-6 weeks (CHF 150) | 2-3 weeks (CHF 250) | N/A |
| Renewal | 3-4 weeks (CHF 120) | 10-14 days (CHF 200) | N/A |
| Replacement | 6-8 weeks (CHF 200) | 3-4 weeks (CHF 300) | N/A |
| Emergency Travel Doc | N/A | N/A | 24-48 hours (CHF 100) |
All passport services require prior appointment. Biometric data capture must be done in person.
+41 22 919 10 40
+41 22 919 10 41
Fax: +41 22 919 10 42
Mon-Fri 09:00-17:00
General: info@ambardc-geneve.ch
Consular: consular@ambardc-geneve.ch
Emergency: emergency@ambardc-geneve.ch
| Department | Days | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Chancery (Diplomatic) | Monday - Friday | 09:00 - 17:00 |
| Consular Section | Monday - Friday | 09:30 - 12:30* |
| Visa Applications | Mon, Wed, Fri | 09:30 - 11:30 |
| Passport Collection | Tuesday, Thursday | 14:00 - 16:00 |
| Emergency Hotline | 24/7 | +41 79 XXX XXXX |
* By appointment only. Please book online or call ahead.
By Public Transport:
Take tram 15 to "Nations" stop, then walk 5 minutes. Alternatively, bus 5, 8, 28, or F to "Avenue de France".
By Car:
Limited parking available near the Embassy. Public parking available at Place des Nations (paid, CHF 2-3/hour).
All visitors must present valid identification and undergo security screening. Large bags and electronic devices (except mobile phones) must be deposited at security.
The Embassy invites all Congolese citizens and friends of the DRC to celebrate the 66th Anniversary of Independence. The event will feature traditional music performances by the Kinshasa Symphony Orchestra, authentic Congolese cuisine, cultural exhibitions showcasing traditional art and crafts, and a keynote address by the Ambassador on the progress and future of the nation.
Diplomatic
His Excellency Ambassador Paul Empole Losoko Efambe met with Swiss State Secretary Livia Leu to discuss strengthening cooperation in areas of trade, education, and humanitarian assistance. The meeting resulted in a commitment to establish a joint economic commission and increase Swiss technical assistance programs in the DRC's agricultural sector.
Read Full ReportThe Embassy facilitated a groundbreaking partnership between Geneva University Hospitals (HUG) and the University of Kinshasa Medical School. The 5-year program will provide training for 50 Congolese medical professionals annually, focusing on tropical diseases, surgery, and public health management.
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The Democratic Republic of the Congo gains independence from Belgium. Patrice Lumumba becomes Prime Minister and Joseph Kasavubu President.
The DRC establishes its diplomatic mission in Geneva to maintain relations with Switzerland and participate in the growing international diplomatic community in the city.
The Embassy expands its role to represent the DRC at various UN specialized agencies headquartered in Geneva, including the ILO and WHO.
During the difficult years of conflict, the Embassy maintained crucial diplomatic channels and provided essential consular services to refugees and displaced persons.
Following the first free elections in 40 years, the Embassy played a key role in re-establishing the DRC's international standing and attracting Swiss investment.
Major renovation of the Embassy chancery and implementation of digital consular services to better serve the growing diaspora community.
His Excellency Paul Empole Losoko Efambe assumes office as Ambassador, bringing renewed focus on economic diplomacy and diaspora engagement.
Launch of new biometric passport system and online visa application portal, modernizing consular services for the digital age.
Meet the dedicated professionals serving the DRC mission in Geneva
Ambassador
Head of Mission
Minister Counselor
Political Affairs
First Secretary
Consular Affairs
The Embassy provides authentication and legalization services for documents issued in Switzerland or Liechtenstein that need to be used in the DRC, and vice versa.
CHF 50 per document
24-48 hours processing
CHF 75 per document
3-5 days processing
CHF 25 per copy
Same day service
Registration of births, marriages, and deaths for Congolese nationals abroad.
Children born abroad to Congolese parents must be registered within 90 days of birth.
Registration of marriages concluded abroad.
The Embassy provides emergency assistance to Congolese nationals facing serious difficulties in Switzerland or Liechtenstein.
Assistance with hospital admission, medical evacuation coordination, and contact with family members.
Provision of lawyer lists, prison visits, and ensuring fair treatment under local law.
Assistance with emergency travel documents and coordination of repatriation for destitute nationals.
Referral to shelters and temporary accommodation for nationals in extreme distress.
Diplomatic relations between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Switzerland were established on July 31, 1961. Over six decades, these relations have evolved into a comprehensive partnership encompassing political dialogue, development cooperation, and economic exchange.
Switzerland's cooperation with the DRC focuses on three main areas: governance and peace, health, and sustainable economic development.
CHF 45 million annually
Focus on maternal health and fighting epidemics
CHF 30 million annually
Support for decentralization and rule of law
CHF 25 million annually
Food security and rural development
The DRC offers significant investment opportunities in mining, agriculture, energy, and infrastructure. The Embassy facilitates connections between Swiss investors and Congolese business partners.
Cobalt, copper, diamonds, and gold. The DRC holds the world's largest cobalt reserves.
Hydroelectric power potential estimated at 100,000 MW, currently utilizing only 2%.
80 million hectares of arable land, ideal for coffee, cocoa, palm oil, and food crops.
Major needs in transportation, telecommunications, and urban development.
The Embassy actively promotes the rich cultural heritage of the DRC through exhibitions, concerts, film screenings, and educational programs.