Embassy of the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Welcome

Embassy of the Democratic Republic of the Congo

Strengthening diplomatic ties between the DRC and Switzerland while providing comprehensive consular services to our citizens abroad

Consular Services Learn More

Diplomacy

Bridging Nations, Building Futures

Representing the DRC at the United Nations and international organizations in Geneva since 1962

Our Mission Get in Touch

Investment

Discover Opportunities in the DRC

From mining to agriculture, explore investment possibilities in one of Africa's most resource-rich nations

Trade & Investment Development

Visa Application

Apply for tourist, business, or transit visas with our streamlined online process

Passport Renewal

Renew your passport or apply for emergency travel documents

Book Appointment

Schedule your consular appointment online for faster service

Emergency Assistance

24/7 support for Congolese nationals in distress

Latest Updates

News & Announcements

Stay informed about the latest developments, events, and announcements from the Embassy

Consular

Jan 20, 2026 Admin

New Biometric Passport System Launched

The Embassy now offers enhanced biometric passports with chip technology for improved security and faster border crossings.

Diplomatic

Jan 15, 2026 Ambassador

DRC-Switzerland Business Forum 2026

Join us in March for a major business forum promoting trade and investment opportunities between our nations.

Cultural

Jan 10, 2026 Cultural Affairs

Congolese Art Exhibition Opens in Geneva

Celebrating the rich artistic heritage of the DRC with contemporary and traditional works by Congolese artists.

What We Do

Our Services

Comprehensive diplomatic and consular services for citizens and international partners

Consular Services

Visa processing, passport renewal, civil registration, and document legalization for Congolese nationals and foreign applicants.

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Diplomatic Relations

Maintaining and strengthening bilateral relations between the DRC and Switzerland through political dialogue and cooperation.

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International Organizations

Representing DRC interests at UN agencies, WHO, WTO, and other international organizations based in Geneva.

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Trade & Investment

Promoting economic opportunities, facilitating business partnerships, and supporting investment in the DRC.

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64

Years of
Diplomacy

About Us

Diplomatic Mission in the Heart of Europe

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.

Accredited to Switzerland and Liechtenstein
Permanent Mission to UN Organizations
Full Consular Services for Nationals
Trade and Investment Promotion

Discover Our Mission

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Citizens Served Annually

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Visas Processed

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Bilateral Agreements

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Years of Service

The Embassy will be closed on February 16, 2026, for the Presidents' Day holiday. Emergency services remain available.

Our Mission

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:

Representation: Representing the DRC government and its interests in Switzerland and Liechtenstein
Protection: Protecting the rights and interests of Congolese nationals residing in or visiting Switzerland
Promotion: Promoting bilateral cooperation in political, economic, cultural, and scientific fields
Multilateral Diplomacy: Facilitating DRC participation in international conferences and diplomatic activities
Consular Services: Issuing visas and providing comprehensive consular services

Location & Jurisdiction

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.

Chancery

Avenue de France 23
1202 Geneva, Switzerland
+41 22 919 10 40

Office Hours

Monday - Friday
09:00 - 17:00
Consular: 09:30 - 12:30

Jurisdiction

Switzerland
Liechtenstein
UN Organizations

Organizational Structure

The Embassy operates through several specialized departments, each dedicated to specific aspects of our diplomatic mission:

Responsible for maintaining bilateral relations with Switzerland, monitoring political developments, and coordinating with international organizations in Geneva including the UN, WHO, WTO, and ILO.

Handles all consular services including passport applications, visa processing, civil status documents, legalization of documents, and assistance to Congolese nationals in distress.

Promotes trade and investment between the DRC and Switzerland, supports business missions, and facilitates economic cooperation in sectors such as mining, agriculture, and technology.

Organizes cultural events, promotes Congolese heritage, manages public relations, and maintains the Embassy's digital presence and communications.

History of the 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.

His Excellency

Paul Empole Losoko Efambe

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.

Presented credentials to the Swiss Federal Council on October 15, 2023

Former Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN (2018-2023)

Chair of the DRC delegation to the Human Rights Council

Advocate for women's rights and sustainable development

Contact the Ambassador

Priority Areas

Bilateral Relations

Strengthening political dialogue and cooperation between the DRC and Switzerland across all sectors.

Economic Cooperation

Promoting Swiss investment in DRC's mining, agriculture, and infrastructure sectors.

Education Exchange

Facilitating scholarships and academic partnerships between Congolese and Swiss institutions.

Humanitarian Coordination

Coordinating with Swiss humanitarian organizations for development assistance in the DRC.

Recent Activities

January 2026

Meeting with Swiss State Secretary

Discussed enhancement of bilateral trade agreements and cooperation on climate change initiatives.

December 2025

Human Rights Council Address

Presented the DRC's report on human rights progress and challenges at the 45th session of the HRC.

November 2025

Diaspora Engagement Forum

Hosted the first Congolese Diaspora Forum in Geneva to strengthen ties with nationals abroad.

Important: All visa applicants must apply online before visiting the Embassy. Walk-in applications are not accepted.

Visa Requirements

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.

Tourist Visa

For leisure travel, visiting family, or tourism purposes in the DRC.

Valid for 30 days (extendable once for additional 30 days)
Single or multiple entry options available
Processing time: 5-7 business days
Fee: CHF 150 (single entry) / CHF 250 (multiple entry)

Required Documents:

Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity, 2 blank pages)
Completed visa application form (online)
Two recent passport-size photographs (white background)
Proof of accommodation in DRC (hotel reservation or invitation letter)
Return flight ticket or onward journey ticket
International Yellow Fever vaccination certificate
Bank statements (last 3 months) showing sufficient funds
Travel insurance covering the duration of stay

Business Visa

For business meetings, conferences, commercial activities, and investment exploration.

Valid for 30-90 days depending on purpose
Multiple entry options for frequent travelers
Processing time: 7-10 business days
Fee: CHF 200 (30 days) / CHF 300 (90 days)

Required Documents:

All documents required for tourist visa
Letter of invitation from DRC company or organization
Letter from employer stating purpose of visit
Company registration documents (for business owners)
Proof of business activities or investment plans

Student Visa

For educational purposes, academic research, and internship programs.

Valid for duration of study program (up to 1 year)
Annual renewal required for multi-year programs
Processing time: 10-15 business days
Fee: CHF 180

Required Documents:

All standard passport requirements
Acceptance letter from accredited DRC educational institution
Proof of financial means or scholarship award
Academic transcripts and certificates
Medical clearance certificate
Police clearance certificate from country of residence

Work Visa

For employment and professional activities in the DRC.

Valid for 1-2 years depending on contract
Requires work permit approval from DRC Ministry of Labor
Processing time: 15-20 business days
Fee: CHF 350

Required Documents:

Work permit approval from DRC Ministry of Labor
Employment contract authenticated by relevant authorities
Company registration and tax clearance in DRC
Professional qualifications and CV
Medical examination certificate
Police clearance from country of origin and residence

Visa Fees

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

Application Process

Online Application

2

Document Submission

3

Payment

4

Processing

5

Collection

Visa Application Inquiry

Fill out the form below for visa-related inquiries. For new applications, please use our online portal.

Full Name *

Nationality *

Email Address *

Phone Number

Visa Type *

Preferred Travel Date

Message *

New Biometric Passports

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.

Ordinary Passport

Valid for 5 years
CHF 150
For regular citizens

Service Passport

Valid for 5 years
CHF 200
For government officials

Diplomatic Passport

Valid for 5 years
CHF 250
For diplomats & officials

Application Requirements

Original National Identity Card (Carte d'Identité)
Original Birth Certificate (issued within last 3 months)
Two recent passport photographs (white background, 35x45mm)
Proof of residence in Switzerland/Liechtenstein (permit or utility bill)
Completed biometric data capture form
Payment of consular fees

Expired or expiring passport (validity less than 6 months)
Original National Identity Card
Two recent passport photographs
Proof of residence
Completed renewal application form

Police report from local authorities
Affidavit explaining circumstances of loss
Copy of lost passport (if available)
National Identity Card
Birth Certificate
Additional verification may be required

For urgent travel due to emergency situations (medical, death, etc.). Valid for single journey to DRC only.

Proof of emergency (medical certificate, death certificate)
Travel itinerary
National Identity Card or photocopy of lost passport
Two passport photographs
Processing fee: CHF 100

Processing Times

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)

Book Passport Appointment

All passport services require prior appointment. Biometric data capture must be done in person.

Full Name (as in passport) *

Date of Birth *

Service Type *

Current Passport Number (if applicable)

Email *

Phone *

Preferred Appointment Date *

Preferred Time

Additional Information

Visit Us

Avenue de France 23
1202 Geneva
Switzerland

Get Directions

Call Us

+41 22 919 10 40
+41 22 919 10 41
Fax: +41 22 919 10 42

Mon-Fri 09:00-17:00

Email Us

General: info@ambardc-geneve.ch
Consular: consular@ambardc-geneve.ch
Emergency: emergency@ambardc-geneve.ch

Send us a Message

Your Name *

Email Address *

Phone Number

Department *

Subject *

Message *

Office Hours

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.

Getting Here

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).

Security Notice

All visitors must present valid identification and undergo security screening. Large bags and electronic devices (except mobile phones) must be deposited at security.

Event

June 30, 2026 Intercontinental Hotel, Geneva

National Day Celebration 2026 - 66th Anniversary of Independence

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.

RSVP Now

Diplomatic

Jan 15, 2026 Ambassador

Bilateral Meeting with Swiss State Secretary

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 Report

Cooperation

Jan 10, 2026 Cooperation Office

Health Partnership Initiative Launched

The 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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June 30, 1960

Independence

The Democratic Republic of the Congo gains independence from Belgium. Patrice Lumumba becomes Prime Minister and Joseph Kasavubu President.

1962

Embassy Established in Geneva

The DRC establishes its diplomatic mission in Geneva to maintain relations with Switzerland and participate in the growing international diplomatic community in the city.

1970s

Expansion of Multilateral Engagement

The Embassy expands its role to represent the DRC at various UN specialized agencies headquartered in Geneva, including the ILO and WHO.

1990s

Challenging Times

During the difficult years of conflict, the Embassy maintained crucial diplomatic channels and provided essential consular services to refugees and displaced persons.

2006

Democratic Renewal

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.

2015

Modernization

Major renovation of the Embassy chancery and implementation of digital consular services to better serve the growing diaspora community.

2023

New Leadership

His Excellency Paul Empole Losoko Efambe assumes office as Ambassador, bringing renewed focus on economic diplomacy and diaspora engagement.

2026

Digital Transformation

Launch of new biometric passport system and online visa application portal, modernizing consular services for the digital age.

Our Team

Meet the dedicated professionals serving the DRC mission in Geneva

Paul Empole Losoko Efambe

Ambassador

Head of Mission

Jean-Pierre Mbemba

Minister Counselor

Political Affairs

Sophie Kabila

First Secretary

Consular Affairs

Document Legalization Services

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.

Apostille

CHF 50 per document
24-48 hours processing

Legalization

CHF 75 per document
3-5 days processing

Certified Copies

CHF 25 per copy
Same day service

Legalization Request

Civil Registration Services

Registration of births, marriages, and deaths for Congolese nationals abroad.

Children born abroad to Congolese parents must be registered within 90 days of birth.

Hospital birth certificate
Parents' passports and identity cards
Marriage certificate of parents
Registration fee: CHF 50

Registration of marriages concluded abroad.

Original foreign marriage certificate
Passports of both spouses
Birth certificates of both spouses
Registration fee: CHF 75

Emergency Hotline: +41 79 123 45 67 (24/7)

Assistance to Nationals in Distress

The Embassy provides emergency assistance to Congolese nationals facing serious difficulties in Switzerland or Liechtenstein.

Medical Emergencies

Assistance with hospital admission, medical evacuation coordination, and contact with family members.

Legal Troubles

Provision of lawyer lists, prison visits, and ensuring fair treatment under local law.

Repatriation

Assistance with emergency travel documents and coordination of repatriation for destitute nationals.

Temporary Shelter

Referral to shelters and temporary accommodation for nationals in extreme distress.

DRC-Switzerland Relations

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.

Key Areas of Cooperation

Peace and Security: Switzerland supports peace processes in the Great Lakes region through mediation and good offices.
Humanitarian Aid: Swiss Humanitarian Aid provides support to displaced populations in Eastern DRC.
Development Cooperation: Focus on health, education, and governance sectors.
Trade: Swiss imports from DRC primarily consist of raw materials, while exports to DRC include pharmaceuticals and machinery.

Swiss Cooperation Strategy

Switzerland's cooperation with the DRC focuses on three main areas: governance and peace, health, and sustainable economic development.

Health

CHF 45 million annually
Focus on maternal health and fighting epidemics

Governance

CHF 30 million annually
Support for decentralization and rule of law

Agriculture

CHF 25 million annually
Food security and rural development

Investment Opportunities

The DRC offers significant investment opportunities in mining, agriculture, energy, and infrastructure. The Embassy facilitates connections between Swiss investors and Congolese business partners.

Sectors of Interest

Mining

Cobalt, copper, diamonds, and gold. The DRC holds the world's largest cobalt reserves.

Energy

Hydroelectric power potential estimated at 100,000 MW, currently utilizing only 2%.

Agriculture

80 million hectares of arable land, ideal for coffee, cocoa, palm oil, and food crops.

Infrastructure

Major needs in transportation, telecommunications, and urban development.

Promoting Congolese Culture

The Embassy actively promotes the rich cultural heritage of the DRC through exhibitions, concerts, film screenings, and educational programs.

Congolese Rumba

Traditional Art

Traditional Dance