Easy Tips For Paying Bills in Switzerland

A forward thinking country, Switzerland’s banking system leads the way in Europe. Here’s a quick guide to setting up banking and paying bills in Switzerland for anyone on the move.

Utilities

Swiss utilities such as electricity and water don’t offer the open market UK residents may be used to. Many areas are tied to a single supplier. While you might not be able to choose between providers, there are often different tariffs and energy packages on offer.

Plans have been muted for some time to open up these markets, with locals keen to enjoy more choice and lower bills.

Water is often supplied by the same regional energy provider. Swiss water, in part due to its alpine topography, is considered to be among the best in Europe, with high purity laws in place.

Green Energy

The country has made huge steps towards becoming carbon neutral. As a consumer you can opt for greener energy packages using renewable and carbon neutral schemes.

Sockets & Energy Supplies

Swiss homes and appliances mostly run off 230V, the same as the UK. Plug sockets are two pin.

Shopping Around

There are price comparison websites in Switzerland aimed at finding the best deals. This is a good way to find lower price on services like car/home insurance, pet care plans, car leasing, mortgages. Comparis is an independent site which is well regarded and covers a wide range of services.

.ch

When shopping online, look for the .ch is the most common domain for websites in Switzerland.

Payment Apps

There are a number of payment apps and services that can control all your payments from one app such as Swissquote’s Ebill. Separate to your bank account, these services can operate manage your bills independently from your accounts. You nominate which accounts to make payments from,

Direct Debit

Just like UK banking, the fastest, easiest way to pay bills is via direct debit. If you wish to open a Swiss bank account you will need to provide;

• Photo ID
• Proof of address
• Proof of residency – In many banks you must provide proof of a long-term or working visa or residency, in order to open a Swiss account
• You may also be required to provide proof of employment

The two major banks are UBS and Credit Suisse.

Bank Transfers

Swiss banking is world renowned for its high level of security and discretion. For single or irregular payments, online bank transfers are quick easy and safe. This can be managed from either payment apps or direct from your bank account through your banking app.

Paying At The Post Office

Swiss post offices are incredibly efficient. With an aging population and not everyone feeling tech savvy, it is still possible to pay bills through the post office. You’ll need to details of the bill, paying account and your own bank details in order to complete payment.
Most banks have English speaking staff and are incredibly helpful.

Paying by cheque

While no longer accepted in many shops, cheques can still be used for banking payments or money transfers.

ATMs

Most automated banking machines offer English instructions. Some UK and international bank accounts may apply fees for using a foreign ATM.

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Removals to Switzerland

Driving in Switzerland

All the above information was correct at the time of writing. Swiss legislation is liable to change and we recommend you check with the correct Swiss and relevant European authorities in regards to all legal requirements prior to your move.