Companies based in Switzerland can open a business account at a traditional bank, a cantonal bank, PostFinance, or a digital provider. Non residents face more checks and often an in person step. Figures here are as of 3 June 2026.
- Can a non resident open
- Possible but harder. Traditional banks often require an in person visit and proof of a genuine business reason. Verify with the provider.
- Typical timeline
- Around 4 to 10 weeks at a traditional bank, faster at a digital provider. Verify with the provider.
- Free account available
- Some accounts waive fees for an introductory period and some digital providers have low cost plans. Verify current terms.
- Most providers
- Several business accounts
General information, not financial, legal, or tax advice. Verify current terms and eligibility with the provider before applying.
How business banking works in Switzerland
Switzerland has traditional banks, cantonal banks, PostFinance, and a growing set of digital providers. Most companies hold a Swiss franc account for domestic payments and salaries, and many add a second account or provider for foreign exchange when they invoice clients abroad. Pricing usually combines a base fee with per item or package charges, and digital providers compete on lower foreign exchange costs. Figures here are as of 3 June 2026.
Who can open a business account
Companies registered in Switzerland, such as a GmbH or an AG, and sole proprietors can open a business account. Non residents and foreign owned companies can apply, although banks assess the genuine business reason and economic substance and may require an in person visit. Verify your situation with the provider.
Traditional banks compared with neobanks
Traditional and cantonal banks offer branch service, lending, and the full product range, usually at a higher cost. Digital providers offer faster online sign up and strong foreign exchange pricing, though some do not issue a Swiss franc IBAN. Many Swiss businesses combine a low cost franc account with a separate foreign exchange provider. Verify current terms with each provider.
Requirements and documents
Documents vary by provider and by whether the applicant is resident. Common items include the following. Verify with the provider
- Commercial register extract and articles of association for the company.
- Identification for the owners, directors, and beneficial owners.
- Evidence of the business activity and, for foreign owned companies, the commercial reason for a Swiss account.
How to open an account
- Register your company and obtain a commercial register extract.
- Choose a provider that fits your need for a franc account, foreign exchange, or both, and gather the required documents.
- Apply online or in person, complete identity and compliance checks, then fund and activate the account.
Compare business accounts available in Switzerland
These providers accept business customers in Switzerland. Fees and eligibility shown as of 3 June 2026. Confirm current terms with the provider before applying.
Compare business accounts →Questions about business banking in Switzerland
Can a non resident open a business account in Switzerland?
How much does a business account in Switzerland cost?
How long does it take to open a business account in Switzerland?
Do digital providers give a Swiss franc IBAN?
Fees, features, and eligibility change and vary by region. This page was last reviewed on 3 June 2026. Confirm current terms with the provider before applying.