Can you open a bank account in Switzerland without a B permit?
Yes, at some banks: UBS, for example, accepts the confirmation of registration from your municipality instead of a residence permit. Others, such as Yuh, ask for the permit: check your bank’s list of documents before you start.
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What two banks ask for, as examples
| Bank | Documents asked of foreign nationals |
|---|---|
| UBS (key4) | ID, and a residence permit (B, C, Ci or L) or confirmation of registration from the municipality. You must live in Switzerland and be liable to tax here. |
| Yuh | Identity card or passport, and a residence permit for foreign nationals living in Switzerland. |
Terms taken from the banks’ websites on 27 September 2026. They change without notice and differ between banks: the bank’s information prevails.
Why open it quickly
Your salary is paid into the account and your rent is paid from it. The rent deposit, up to three months’ rent, is also held in an account in your name. There is no legal deadline, but ideally have it before your first salary.
Documents to prepare
- Passport or ID card
- Proof of address or of registration
- Employment contract
Start by registering with your municipality: the confirmation it gives you is often the document that makes opening possible (Registration deadline).
Before you arrive in Switzerland
Some banks open accounts remotely for residents of neighbouring countries. At Yuh, for example, you need official proof of residence and a first deposit of at least EUR or CHF 500 from an account in your country of residence.
Comparing offers
Account and card fees, app language, conditions: offers are listed in CheckSwiss’s Useful services (some links are paid).
Check the formalities and deadlines that apply to you
CheckSwiss keeps only the formalities that apply to you, based on your canton, job, family and vehicle, and works out your deadlines.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the municipality’s registration confirmation enough to open an account?
At UBS, the confirmation of registration from the municipality is accepted instead of a residence permit. Other banks, such as Yuh, ask for the permit: check with your bank.
Can you open an account online?
Yes, at some banks: the UBS key4 account is opened in the app, with a selfie and a biometric ID or by video call; Yuh is also opened in the app.
Can you open a Swiss account before arriving?
Some banks allow it for residents of neighbouring countries. At Yuh, you need official proof of residence and a first deposit of at least EUR or CHF 500 from your country of residence.
Sources
- UBS, UBS key4 account: opening requirements · checked on 27 September 2026
- Yuh, frequently asked questions: opening an account · checked on 27 September 2026