Step-by-Step Guide to Open a Bank Account in Switzerland as an International Student

11 July 2025

Travelling to Switzerland to study is an exciting experience but it also comes with certain responsibilities, one of which is having a Swiss bank account. Having a local bank account as an international student is a requirement to manage your regular expenditure, rent payments, receiving wages from part-time jobs, and meeting your visa conditions. It is a complex process at first sight but with proper information and preparation, it is easy to achieve.

Switzerland boasts some of the globe’s most trustworthy banking establishments. From old-fashioned banks such as UBS and Credit Suisse to student banks such as Post Finance and internet banks such as Neon and Yuh, students have an abundance of options according to lifestyle and requirements. Due to the controlled and secure system of Switzerland, one can open a bank account easily if you are familiar with a few uncomplicated steps.

Here in this BCES Admissions Abroad blog, we will guide you through each step of the process so that opening your bank account becomes a problem-free experience. We have added some updates and suggestions that we have recently included to enable you to settle down earlier.

1. Select the Ideal Bank

Start with researching banks that offer student accounts. Some banks do not include monthly maintenance fees for students or have additional services like free debit cards, online banking, and multilingual service. Some of the most sought-after ones are:

• UBS Student Account
• Credit Suisse Bonviva Student Package
• PostFinance Student Account
• Digital banks like Neon and Yuh (app-based and often with zero account fees)

2. Have Your Documents Ready

Opening a Swiss bank account generally takes the following:

• Valid passport
• Swiss residence permit or university registration certificate
• Evidence of your address in Switzerland
• Letter of admission from your university
• Visa approval (in non-EU/EEA students’ case)

3. Go to the Bank or Apply Online

All major Swiss banks permit you to open an account either by visiting a bank office or filling in an online application form. Online banks are particularly useful if you would prefer to open an account before you move to Switzerland. For instance, Neon permits you to open an account entirely from its app using video verification.

4. Wait for Verification

After you’ve applied and sent your documents, your identity will be checked by the bank. In case of conventional banks, it will be done within 3–5 business days and for online banks, it will be less than 48 hours.

5. Activate Your Account and Get Banking Materials

Once approved, your IBAN, debit card, and login credentials will be sent either by post or through e-mail, depending on the bank. You can now use the account for making payments, paying tuition fees, and getting money transferred from home or office.

Important Points

• Swiss banks are secure but formal in nature. Your details must be an exact match of your passport and visa details.
• There could be charges. Student accounts are free, but your bank might charge you for foreign transactions or foreign ATM withdrawals.
• Digital banking is gaining traction. For international students who are online-savvy, digital banking will be simpler and quicker.
• Apply ahead of time for your account. You can be required to provide a bank statement to activate the visa or rental agreements.

Recent Updates You Should Know

• As of 2025, some online banks like Yuh and Neon already allow non-residents to start the account opening process before they arrive in Switzerland, provided they upload all the required documents online.
• PostFinance no longer requires monthly account charges from students under 25 years old.
• UBS now offers multilingual service online solely for international students in principal urban areas like Zurich, Geneva, and Lausanne.

Why It Matters

You don’t need to open a Swiss bank account as it’s something that will put you in a position to put your life together here. It makes you more financially organized, in accordance with visa regulations, and comfortable in your new surroundings. With additional student-friendly products provided by banks, it’s never been easier.

For additional support with studying and acclimatizing to Switzerland, contact BCES Admissions Abroad today at +91 8800096600.