Opening a bank account is usually one of the first things you need sorted in Switzerland: employers pay salaries by bank transfer, not cash or cheque, and landlords often want a deposit account before you can move in.
What you need to open an account
- A valid passport or ID
- Proof of address in Switzerland, or a confirmation letter if you have not moved yet
- Your residence permit, or confirmation that your permit application is in progress
- Proof of employment or income in many cases
Requirements vary by bank and by canton, so confirm the exact list with the branch or app before your appointment.
Traditional banks vs. app-only accounts
A traditional retail bank (the kind with branches in most towns) tends to be the easiest first account for a newcomer: in-person help, a physical card same day in some cases, and straightforward integration with Swiss bill payment (QR-bill) and standing orders for rent.
App-only challenger banks are usually free or low-cost, quick to open online, and popular with digitally comfortable newcomers and students. They can be a good second account, though a few landlords and institutions still prefer a recognisable local bank for the security deposit account specifically.
Best for / avoid if
Best for a first account: a mainstream retail bank or PostFinance if you want in-person support and broad acceptance for deposits and salary.
Avoid if: you need a rent deposit account specifically, some app-only banks do not offer one, check before you rely on it for that purpose.
Frequently asked questions
How much does this actually cost in Switzerland?
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What should a newcomer choose first?
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What mistake should I avoid?
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