Opening a bank account in Switzerland: A practical guide for expats

You’ve made the move and signed your work contract. Now it’s time for the next practical step: open a Swiss bank account.

Without a local account, life in Switzerland quickly becomes complicated. Salaries, rent, insurance, payments via TWINT, everything runs through a Swiss account. And if you keep using your foreign card, you'll soon face additional charges like ATM fees or foreign exchange markups.

The good news: in 2025, opening a bank account in Switzerland is easier than ever, especially if you know which bank suits you and what services you actually need.

Who can open a bank account in Switzerland?

In principle, any legally competent person over the age of 18 can open a bank account in Switzerland, regardless of nationality. Foreign residents in Switzerland are legally allowed to hold accounts.

What matters is your residence permit:

• Permit B (for workers with a limited stay) is accepted by most banks.

• Permit C (for permanent residents) is treated the same as Swiss citizens.

• Permit L (for short-term stays) is not accepted everywhere. Some banks may require extra documentation or decline the application.

Please note: Banks must comply with anti-money laundering laws, which means they’ll carefully check the source of your funds, especially for larger initial deposits.

Which bank is right for you? 4 key factors

Switzerland offers a wide range of banks, each with its own strengths. At first glance, many offers may seem similar – but key differences matter, especially for expats.

Major bank, cantonal bank, or digital bank?

• International banks offer full services, from everyday banking to wealth management and investing. Ideal for those with complex financial needs.

• Cantonal banks are regionally focused with a personal touch and dense branch networks, but often limited to one canton. Moving may require switching banks.

• Digital banks operate exclusively online, offering simplicity, flexibility, and low fees. Alpian takes it further: as a digital premium bank, it combines everyday banking, investing, and wealth services in one user-friendly app, no branch visits needed.

Avoid unnecessary fees

Pay close attention to the fee structure. Many banks charge extra for:

• International transactions

• ATM withdrawals at third-party machines

• Foreign currency payments

• Account maintenance

A bank with transparent and fair fees can save you a lot in the long run, especially if you make regular international payments.

Branch network or app?

A large branch network lets you handle banking in person, a plus for many expats, especially early on.

Digital banks allow you to manage everything via app or online, anytime, anywhere, no queues. That’s a big win for busy or mobile lifestyles.

Banking in your language

Make sure your bank offers services in a language you're comfortable with, whether German, English, French, or Italian. This applies to the app, website, and customer support.

FINMA License: Why it matters

In short: A FINMA license is a strong indicator of safety, transparency, and regulatory oversight. It ensures the bank is regulated in Switzerland, your deposits are protected up to 100,000 CHF, and you’re working with a trustworthy institution.

Many neobanks operate via partner institutions without their own license. While legal, it’s not the same. A fully FINMA-licensed bank like Alpian gives you peace of mind.

Documents you’ll need to open a bank account

Requirements vary slightly, but you should have the following:

• Valid passport or ID

• Residence permit (B, C, or L if accepted)

• Proof of address (e.g., rental contract, utility bill, registration certificate)

• Employment contract or student certificate (not mandatory, but helpful)

• Proof of origin of funds (especially for deposits over 10,000 CHF)

• FATCA form if you’re taxable in the U.S.

Many banks offer digital checklists, use them to save time and avoid follow-up questions.

How to open a bank account in 6 simple steps

1. Choose the right bank

   Classic, regional, or digital? Pick one that suits your lifestyle. Expats should consider fees, exchange rates, online options, and language support.

2. Fill out the application

   Most banks have online forms or app-based applications. With Alpian, everything is done via smartphone – no branches, no paperwork.

3. Verify your identity

   Use a video identification process to show your ID and confirm your information. Traditional banks may also offer in-person or postal verification.

4. Upload your documents

   Make sure they are readable, current, and valid. The more complete your documents, the faster the process.

5. Make your first deposit

   Some banks require a minimum deposit (e.g., 100 CHF). At Alpian, this also serves as identity confirmation and must come from an account in your name.

6. Account activated

   You’ll receive your IBAN and card (digital or physical) and can start using your account immediately.

Opening an account without a Swiss Address

You can still open an account without a Swiss address, but not with every bank – and often with conditions.

Traditional banks may require:

• In-person identification in Switzerland or via a third-party representative

• Proof of purpose for the account (e.g., employment contract)

• Monthly service fees (e.g., 25 to 90 CHF)

Why expats choose Alpian

Alpian is a top choice for expats, especially if you’re new to Switzerland and want to avoid paperwork, language hurdles, or hidden fees. Here’s why:

• Multi-currency account for international life

  Hold CHF, EUR, USD, and GBP in one account with a single IBAN. Get paid, send money home, and shop globally without currency markups or juggling multiple banks.

• No account fees, no surprises

  Alpian charges no fixed fees. Everything is transparent from the start.

• App and support in your language

  Available in German, English, French, and Italian.

• Open your account in minutes

  No appointments, no paperwork. Just download the app, verify via video, and your account is live in about 10 minutes.

• FINMA license and deposit protection – Swiss-level security included

  Alpian is a fully regulated Swiss bank. Your deposits are protected up to CHF 100’000 just like with traditional banks.

Open your free multi-currency bank account in only 10 minutes.

Download the Alpian app

Conclusion: Ready to open your account?

Opening a Swiss bank account is easier than ever if you choose wisely. Whether it’s a major bank, a cantonal institution, or a digital solution, your needs as an expat are what matter most.

Compare fees, currency options, and language support. Gather your documents. Then go for it.

Ready to go digital? Alpian makes it easy, free, secure, and paperless. Open your free account today.