In this article, we’re exploring the best cantonal bank in Switzerland. We’ll share a list of the top eight banking firms, including the best banks in Switzerland that are government-owned, determine whether or not cantonal banks accept non-resident clients, and answer common questions we receive from people exploring this topic.
This article is part of our free series on the best banks in Switzerland. You can access this series right now by using the link above.
In addition to detailed account opening guides, this free series on Swiss banking also discusses the largest banks in Switzerland, Switzerland’s opening requirements, the costs of banking in Switzerland, and much more. Use the link above to start exploring all of your free Swiss banking content right now.
Alternatively, use the table of contents to continue exploring more information on the best cantonal bank in Switzerland.
Table of Contents
- What Is the Best Cantonal Bank in Switzerland?
- Can Non-Residents Open Accounts With Swiss Cantonal Banks?
- Frequently Asked Switzerland Banking Questions
- Do You Want to Open a Switzerland Bank Account?
What Is the Best Cantonal Bank in Switzerland?
The best cantonal bank in Switzerland for non-residents is one that caters to non-residents, offers non-resident banking services, and is remotely accessible. Not all cantonal banks are suitable for every non-resident client type.
All cantonal banks are government-owned and regulated by cantonal laws. Most of them specialize in providing retail banking to residents of the Swiss canton they operate in, however, several cantonal banks do offer web-based banking solutions through the best digital banks in Switzerland.
Here is a list of eight cantonal banks that currently operate in Switzerland.
Cantonal Banks in Switzerland
- Zürcher Kantonalbank
- Banque Cantonale Vaudoise
- Luzerner Kantonalbank
- Basler Kantonalbank
- Berner Kantonalbank
- St.Galler Kantonalbank
- Aargauische Kantonalbank
- Graubündner Kantonalbank
Please note that this list only includes eight of the 24 cantonal banks operating in Switzerland.
Can Non-Residents Open Accounts With Swiss Cantonal Banks?
Yes, non-residents can open accounts with cantonal banks in Switzerland. The banks available to you, as a non-resident, highly depends on your banking needs, your deposit level, and where you reside.
Opening a bank account in Switzerland, whether it’s with a cantonal bank, top international banking institutions, or the best banks in Zurich, Switzerland as a non-resident requires preparation and careful consideration. Not all cantonal banks accept non-resident clients, and the ones that do, have strict onboarding policies.
Several Swiss cantonal banks require proof of Swiss residency, Swiss employment, or a Swiss visa to open an account. Other cantonal banks will accept non-residents without submitting this proof of documentation.
Bank selection is an important factor to consider when choosing a cantonal bank to open a bank account with. Here are four important questions non-residents need to consider when choosing a cantonal bank in Switzerland.
How to Open an Account With a Swiss Cantonal Bank as a Non-Resident
- Does the cantonal bank accept my specific client type?
- Does the cantonal bank offer the banking services I need?
- Can I meet the account opening requirements?
- Does the cantonal bank accept the country I reside in?
Needless to say, it is 100% possible for non-residents to open accounts with cantonal banks in Switzerland. They need to, however, choose the right bank, meet the opening requirements, and have a suitable client profile.
If you are interested in learning more about banking in Switzerland, don’t forget to visit our comprehensive guide on banking in Switzerland, available in the link above.
Alternatively, if you would like to explore all of your offshore banking options, download our free guide and compare Switzerland to some of the top banking jurisdictions available.
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Frequently Asked Switzerland Banking Questions
Below are a few of the most common questions we receive from people exploring the best cantonal bank in Switzerland. If you have further questions you would like answered, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us directly.
What Are the Largest Cantonal Banks in Switzerland?
The Largest Cantonal Banks in Switzerland include Zürcher Kantonalbank and Banque Cantonale Vaudoise. These cantonal banks offer a wide range of financial services, including corporate banking, retail banking, and wealth management.
Which Swiss Bank Is the Best?
Determining which Swiss bank is the best for your client profile depends on various factors, including the clientele, the services offered, and the bank’s reputation. It’s important to choose a bank that accepts similar client profiles, matches your banking needs, and aligns with your financial goals.
What Is the Best Bank for Expats in Switzerland?
The best bank for expats in Switzerland depends on the person applying for the account. More specifically, their citizenship, residency, banking needs, and deposit level. Not all banks in Switzerland are suitable for every client type. The best bank for you will likely differ for another client type. Choose banks that accept similar client types, align with your banking needs, and have requirements you can meet.
Do You Want to Open a Switzerland Bank Account?
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