Opening a bank account
Many day-to-day tasks in Switzerland (rent, salary, scholarships, TWINT) are easier with a Swiss account. Student-oriented packages exist; terms, age limits, and documents change, use the bank’s own pages and ask the branch if anything is unclear.
Before you go
- Bring passport/ID, EPFL enrolment proof, and proof of Swiss residence (residence permit or commune registration attestation). EPFL notes that the commune attestation is useful for opening a bank account while you wait for the permit card.
- Remember: the attestation is not a travel document (see Permit section), it only helps with banking and similar proof-of-address needs.
- Prefer banks that publish a clear student or youth package for people in education.
Student-friendly official options (examples)
PostFinance, Student account (SmartStudents package)
- Aimed at people 18–30 in education or training (conditions on their page).
- Can be opened online via the PostFinance website/app (identity check as described by PostFinance).
- Account management is presented as part of a free SmartStudents package on their English page, confirm current inclusions and any optional fees (e.g. paper statements) on the official price list.
- PostFinance, Student account
UBS, Account for young people and students
- Youth / student offering described as from CHF 0 per month for eligible ages (in general up to 26, or students up to 30, confirm on their page).
- International students: UBS states you need passport/ID, proof of residence in Switzerland (permit B/C/Ci/L or municipal registration confirmation), and enrolment proof.
- Open via the UBS app or at a branch.
- UBS, Youth and students account
- UBS, Young banking overview
Other Swiss banks (e.g. cantonal banks) may offer student packages; if you consider them, use only their official websites and verify eligibility for international students yourself. This kit does not recommend paid premium packages.