Open a Bank Account in Switzerland as a Non-Resident

Opening a bank account in Switzerland as a non-resident requires overcoming a strict onboarding process, depositing a large sum of money, and meeting very specific requirements.

In this article, we’re exploring how to open a bank account in Switzerland as a non-resident. We’ll share details on the requirements to expect with personal banking in Switzerland and answer common questions we receive from people exploring this topic.

This article is part of our free series on personal bank accounts 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 Switzerland 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 how to open a bank account in Switzerland as a non-resident.

Table of Contents

  1. How to Open a Bank Account in Switzerland as a Non-Resident?
  2. Frequently Asked Switzerland Banking Questions
  3. Do You Want to Open a Switzerland Bank Account?

How to Open a Bank Account in Switzerland as a Non-Resident?

Determining how to open a bank account in Switzerland as a non-resident will depend on various factors, including the bank you choose, the type of account you want to open, and your banking profile. 

Anyone can open a bank account in Switzerland, as long as they have a suitable profile, overcome strict onboarding procedures, meet specific requirements, and deposit a significant amount of money.

Most non-residents can expect deposit requirements in the range of USD 500,000 and USD 3,000,000. The exact amount you will be required to deposit will ultimately depend on the bank, the account type, and your required banking services.

What Are the Requirements for Opening Accounts in Switzerland as a Non-Resident?

The requirements for opening accounts in Switzerland as a non-resident will depend on your citizenship, residency, the bank you choose, the account type, and whether you are opening an account remotely or in person.

Common requirements include proof of government-issued identification, proof of residency, proof of income, proof of source of wealth, a bank reference letter, and a qualifying deposit.

It’s important to confirm the requirements your specific profile will need to meet before applying for an account.

Can Anyone Open a Bank Account in Switzerland?

Yes, anybody can open a Swiss bank account if they meet the bank’s account opening requirements and have a suitable client profile. Banking in Switzerland is not a suitable option for every client type. Swiss banks typically cater to high-net-worth individuals who can support the high deposit requirement and are seeking private banking services.

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.

Do You Want to Explore All Your Offshore Banking Options?

Frequently Asked Switzerland Banking Questions

Below are a few of the most common questions we receive from people exploring how to open a bank account in Switzerland as a non-resident. If you have further questions you would like answered, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us directly.

Can I Open a Bank Account in Switzerland If I Am Not a Resident?

Yes, you can open a bank account in Switzerland if you are not a resident as long as you choose the right bank, meet the account opening requirements, and have a suitable profile. Not all banks in Switzerland accept non-residents, so bank selection will be an important factor to consider when choosing a bank to open an account with.

Can US Citizens Open Swiss Bank Accounts?

Yes, US citizens can open Swiss bank accounts. However, not all banks in Switzerland accept US citizens. And, of the banks that do, not all of them offer remote account opening. It’s important to know which Swiss banks accept US citizens and have requirements you can meet before applying.

Which Swiss Bank Is Best for Foreigners?

The Swiss bank that is best for foreigners will ultimately depend on the person applying for the account. More specifically, their citizenship, residency, banking needs, and deposit level. This is because not all banks in Switzerland are suitable for every non-resident client. It’s important to choose banks that accept similar client types, have requirements you can meet, and offer the services you are after.

Do You Want to Open a Switzerland Bank Account?

If so, you can access GlobalBanks IQ and start the process of applying in Switzerland in a few clicks.

GlobalBanks IQ is our flagship international bank account opening solution. It gives you instant access to the…

+ Expert insights on which banks to choose & why

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+ GlobalBanks international bank database & detailed bank profiles

+ Tried & tested banks for high-risk, offshore, & non-resident clients

+ Plus, get YOUR most pressing bank account opening questions answered by our team!

And “yes!” GlobalBanks IQ helps foreigners and non-resident individuals open bank accounts.

In fact, GlobalBanks IQ even helps non-resident, foreign & offshore entities open bank accounts.

To learn more about opening accounts with GlobalBanks IQ, use the link in the top menu. Or, contact us directly with any questions!

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GlobalBanks Team
GlobalBanks Team

The GlobalBanks editorial team comprises a group of subject-matter experts from across the banking world, including former bankers, analysts, investors, and entrepreneurs. All have in-depth knowledge and experience in various aspects of international banking. In particular, they have expertise in banking for foreigners, non-residents, and both foreign and offshore companies.

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