Opening a Swiss Bank Account Made Simple

Swiss bank account opening in 2025 is more accessible, regulated, and strategically beneficial than ever before. Whether you're a global entrepreneur, a private investor, or a new Swiss company founder, opening a Swiss bank account is an essential step in establishing a credible and secure presence in Europe.

In this comprehensive guide, we break down the essentials of opening a Swiss bank account, from minimum deposits and document requirements to how legal professionals can streamline the process, especially for company formation.

Why Open a Swiss Bank Account Today?

Switzerland remains a global leader in private and corporate banking for good reason. Swiss banks are known for:

• Long-standing financial stability
• Strict confidentiality (now compliant with international reporting standards)
• World-class infrastructure for asset and corporate management
• Broad multi-currency support and international payment capabilities

For individuals and businesses alike, a Swiss bank account provides more than a safe place to hold capital — it acts as a foundation for transactions, asset protection, and tax efficiency.

Types of Swiss Bank Accounts

Before starting the process, it's important to know which type of account suits your needs:

Personal accounts: For residents and non-residents alike; available in basic, premium, and private banking tiers

Corporate accounts: Designed for operational businesses, including startups, e-commerce, holding companies, and international subsidiaries

Capital deposit accounts: Required by law for depositing the share capital during company formation

Each account type has specific documentation, deposit requirements, and onboarding timelines.

Minimum Deposit Requirements in 2025

Swiss banks have minimum balance requirements that vary by institution and account type:

• Capital deposit account (GmbH): CHF 20,000
• Capital deposit account (AG): CHF 50,000 (CHF 100,000 authorized capital)
• Corporate operational account: CHF 10,000–50,000 minimum deposit recommended
• Private account (non-resident): CHF 50,000–250,000 depending on bank and profile
• Private banking accounts: Often CHF 500,000–1,000,000 or more

Banks may also charge account maintenance fees or request asset management relationships in exchange for account access.

Required Documentation

Opening a Swiss bank account requires submitting various documents depending on whether you're opening a personal or corporate account:

For individuals:

• Valid passport or national ID
• Proof of address (e.g., utility bill, rental agreement)
• Proof of income or wealth (bank statements, tax return)
• KYC forms and CRS declaration

For businesses:

• Articles of association
• Shareholder and director registry
• Business plan (for startups)
• Proof of capital deposit (in company formation cases)

Timeline: How Long Does It Take?

The onboarding process generally takes 5 to 15 business days, depending on the bank’s internal compliance procedures and the complexity of the applicant’s background.

For capital deposit accounts used in Swiss company formation, the process can be completed in as little as 3–5 business days with the assistance of experienced legal counsel.

The Role of Legal Advisors in Swiss Banking

Opening a Swiss bank account independently is possible — but not always efficient. Banks prioritize clients introduced by trusted legal professionals, especially those offering corporate services and fiduciary support.

At Goldblum, a leading Swiss law firm, we support clients with:

• Selecting the right bank for their profile (business type, industry, region)
• Preparing and translating all KYC and legal documents
• Coordinating video identification or notarial certification (if needed)
• Acting under power of attorney to open capital deposit accounts
• Liaising with bank compliance officers to reduce delays

Our clients benefit from faster onboarding, fewer document rejections, and a seamless legal-to-banking transition.

Remote Account Opening: Yes, It’s Possible

Most Swiss banks now offer remote onboarding options, particularly for:

• Capital deposit accounts for company registration
• Personal private accounts for HNWIs
• Business accounts for foreign-owned Swiss companies

Some institutions still require video identification or certified copies of documents, but with our assistance, these formalities are completed smoothly.

Swiss Bank Account + Company Formation: An Integrated Process

For anyone forming a GmbH or AG in Switzerland, opening a Swiss bank account is mandatory. The company cannot be entered in the Commercial Register without proof that the share capital has been deposited in a Swiss financial institution.

We handle this end-to-end:

• Prepare the incorporation documents
• Open a temporary capital deposit account
• Receive the confirmation letter from the bank
• Submit the file to the notary
• Finalize company registration and release the funds into the operational account

This integration is one reason clients prefer working with full-service legal firms rather than isolated agents or DIY solutions.

What to Expect from Swiss Banks in 2025

As global compliance requirements increase, Swiss banks remain at the forefront of transparency and client due diligence:

• Full participation in CRS and FATCA reporting
• Strict AML checks on politically exposed persons (PEPs)
• Regular transaction monitoring for cross-border transfers
• Real-time payment capabilities and digital banking interfaces

The old stereotype of anonymous numbered accounts is long gone. In its place is a highly efficient and secure banking system that rewards legitimacy and long-term planning.

Choosing the Right Bank: Factors to Consider

Banking focus: Retail, private, fintech, or corporate

Industry fit: Some banks specialize in real estate, commodities, or technology

Digital services: Multicurrency accounts, crypto integration, e-commerce support

Language and client support: English-speaking relationship managers

We help clients navigate these options to match their business and financial needs.

Fees and Costs

While Swiss banking isn’t the cheapest in Europe, it delivers value:

Account maintenance fees: CHF 100–500/year (varies)

Transaction fees: Competitive and transparent

Wealth management fees (if applicable): Typically 0.5–1.5% AUM

The peace of mind and infrastructure support often outweigh the cost premium.

Conclusion: Build a Future on Legal and Financial Certainty

A Swiss bank account is not just an access point — it’s a launchpad for global operations, asset management, and compliant business growth.

By working with a Swiss law firm, clients avoid administrative pitfalls, ensure faster onboarding, and create lasting relationships with banks that support their ambitions.

Whether you're forming a company, moving capital, or preparing to expand into Europe, Swiss banking remains a cornerstone of success.