Account & payments
In Switzerland and the Principality of Liechtenstein, you pay in Swiss francs. For everyday life, a Swiss bank account is useful and often even essential.
Almost everyone who lives in Switzerland has a bank account with a financial company. The account is used to pay wages, rent, bills and daily purchases.
If you want to apply for a Swiss bank or postal account, go directly to a bank or post office.
Account at a Swiss bank
Banks new window can decide for themselves what type of residence permit they accept. The best thing to do is to check with the bank to see if you can apply for an account and what documents you need.
Account at the post office
Postfinance new window allows all residents of Switzerland to apply for an account. To do this, you have to go to one of the Postfinance branches in person.
To open an account, bring your passport (or an identity card) and the foreigner's ID card with you.
Payment methods
You can pay with cash, bank or postcard and in many places with credit cards.
The banks offer the possibility of arranging payment transactions online (e-banking).