Our Embassy in Berne
The Embassy has the following sections;
Political, Press and Public Affairs Section
The Political, Press and Public Affairs Section of the Embassy is responsible for building and maintaining contacts with the Swiss and Liechtenstein authorities over issues of mutual interest. The section also follows political, economic, social and other developments in Switzerland and Liechtenstein and reports these back to London. We also offer a wide range of information services to the general public, schools, universities, government departments and the media.
Trade and Investment Section
UK Trade & Investment (UKTI), the British Government's organisation that supports UK companies trading internationally, as well as helping foreign companies to enter into the UK market is strongly represented in the Embassy.
One of UKTI's major objectives in Switzerland is to further develop the trading relationship between the UK and the Swiss market.
Science and Innovation Section
The Science and Innovation (SIN) Section of the Embassy is part of the global SIN network, represented in over 20 countries.
Within Europe, SIN focuses primarily on science policy issues and on facilitating collaboration and innovation.
SIN - Berne works with UK stakeholders, local Swiss partners and SIN colleagues elsewhere in Europe on targeted activities, designed to facilitate science collaboration and R&D business deals.
Consular Section
The British Embassy in Berne provides full consular, nationality and notarial services for the whole of Switzeland with the exception of the cantons of Geneva , Vaud, Valais and Fribourg. Persons requiring these services in those cantons should contact the British Consulate General in Geneva.
Visas are issued at the British Consulate-General in Geneva only. For passports, please consult the British Consulate-General in Paris website. The British Embassy in Berne, the British Consulate-General in Geneva and our Honorary Consulates provide an emergency passport service.
The Defence Section at the British Embassy in Berne:
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Provides liaison between the British and the Swiss Armed Forces and monitors development of defence policy.
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Keeps abreast of developments in the Swiss Armed Forces and their participation in peacekeeping operations.
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Is responsible for obtaining political and military clearances for visiting groups or individuals.
