If you ask anyone to say which country is a gold standard in the world of banking, most people will mention Switzerland. Swiss banks rely on centuries of experience and top-notch banking infrastructure, and it is no wonder that one quarter of the world’s offshore assets is entrusted to them. And though regulation is being tightened, it is still possible to set up a Swiss bank account if you work with an expert.
So, how do you find the right bank as a non-resident? This guide breaks down your best options.
Let’s start by clearing up a myth: yes, you can still open a Swiss bank account as a non-resident. However, the process isn’t as simple as it used to be. The demand is sky-high, and Swiss banks are more selective than ever. Walking in or applying without connections rarely works.
That’s why it’s essential to have a professional partner—someone who knows how to present your application, connect with the right contacts, and get you in front of the right institutions. With our expert team, we help non-residents successfully open personal, corporate, or investment accounts every day.
Swiss banking is a premium service, and most private banks expect deposits starting from CHF 500,000 to CHF 1 million. That said, smaller clients can still access private Swiss banking through online banks like Dukascopy or CIM Bank, which allow account opening from CHF 5,000 or even lower.
While account opening fees vary, many of our clients find they actually save money because we help negotiate better terms and choose the right bank from the start. Whether you're bringing in high six figures or just starting to diversify abroad, we’ll help you find your fit.
Swiss banks continue to welcome foreign clients under various structures:
Personal accounts for wealth management or savings
Corporate accounts for established offshore companies with full documentation and audited financials
Trust accounts for asset protection, legacy planning, or passive investments
It’s important to note that Swiss banks typically restrict corporate accounts to investment purposes and discourage high-frequency payments. If your company needs a Swiss account for treasury management or cross-border revenue streams, we can help present a viable setup.
Now, let’s explore the top-rated Swiss banks for foreigners this year—each with unique strengths, risk profiles, and onboarding policies.
UBS
Switzerland’s largest bank, UBS has global reach and advanced private wealth services. While it may not offer the personalized touch of smaller boutique banks, its access to sophisticated financial products makes it ideal for ultra-high-net-worth clients. Private jet owners and serial entrepreneurs will feel right at home. Note: UBS Switzerland no longer caters to U.S. clients directly, though U.S. wealth management is available via UBS USA.
PICTET
Focused purely on private wealth (not investment banking), Pictet is a better fit for clients looking for a balance between size and specialization. It’s a strong choice for international investors who want the stability of a major institution combined with attentive wealth planning services.
DREYFUS
This is the Swiss banking experience many imagine. Dreyfus Bank, now in its seventh generation of family management, provides a blend of heritage, discretion, and modern service. It only operates in Switzerland, making it a truly local institution with global client appeal.
REICHMUTH
Reichmuth & Co. is one of the few banks in Switzerland still considered a “private banker” under Swiss law. That means the partners have unlimited liability—offering unmatched accountability. With a single office in a Lausanne castle, it’s all about exclusivity and legacy. Ideal for clients who want high-touch, long-term relationships.
BNP PARIBAS (Switzerland)
Though French in origin, BNP Paribas has a rich history in Switzerland. Its strength lies in real estate financing, and it’s perfect for clients looking to use Swiss accounts for European property investments. While the bank does not support offshore corporate accounts, it welcomes mixed personal and commercial banking needs.
HYPOSWISS
A medium-sized bank that balances traditional Swiss private banking with a commercial mindset. Known for good onboarding practices and personalized support, Hyposwiss is suitable for entrepreneurs and international clients involved in trade or logistics.
GONET
Family office-oriented, Gonet is pragmatic and discreet. They’ve recently expanded and merged with One Swiss Bank SA, giving them broader capacity while retaining a personal touch. They also maintain a booking center in the Bahamas, which can be useful for clients diversifying their asset footprint.
CIM BANK
The only traditional Swiss bank with a fintech-style interface, CIM Bank is surprisingly accessible. You can open a personal account with as little as CHF 5,000. While the fees are higher, it’s perfect for mid-tier clients who want prestige banking with a tech twist. They offer cards, multi-currency accounts, and strong service—just not for U.S. clients.
DUKASCOPY
A purely online Swiss bank, Dukascopy is ideal for traders, crypto users, and international freelancers. Open an account with as little as USD 100. They support up to 23 currencies and issue virtual and physical debit cards. No wealth management services here—but excellent global reach at a low entry cost.
Swiss banking is not just surviving—it’s thriving. From ultra-exclusive private banks to modern online platforms, there’s now a range of Swiss solutions available for almost every kind of client. With enhanced compliance comes stronger security, and the Swiss banking sector has doubled down on excellence, privacy, and innovation.
Ready to open your Swiss bank account? Our expert team will guide you from the initial consultation to document preparation and final onboarding, so you can access the Swiss banking world without the hassle.
