Using Checks in Switzerland: A Practical Guide

Checks were never as widely used in Switzerland as they were in some other countries, and today their use is very limited. But there are still situations in which using checks makes sense. Fees for checking services can be very high, depending on which Swiss bank you use.

When does using checks make sense?

Bank transfers always require you to know the recipient’s IBAN or other bank account information. The only information which you need to write a check, on the other hand, is the recipient’s name, and in some cases their address.

You can use checks to make larger withdrawals from your Swiss accounts while in a foreign country, without necessarily needing to have a bank account in that country. That can be beneficial in some cases.

The disadvantage is that using checks in Switzerland is expensive.

Can I use bank checks in Switzerland?

Bank checks, also known as bank-guaranteed checks, are issued by many Swiss banks. When you order a bank check, you have to specify the name of the recipient and the exact amount to be drawn. Your bank then issues the check with the exact details given. It also places a hold on a portion of your account balance equal to the value of the check. This amount is deducted from your account when the check is cashed or deposited.

If you use bank checks often, take the time to compare check fees when selecting a private account.

Can I use personal checks in Switzerland?

Unlike a bank check, a personal check is a blank check that does not have a pre-specified amount or recipient. You can fill in the recipient and the amount they can draw from your account at a later date. Not all Swiss banks issue personal checks.

In Switzerland, personal checks cashed at the same bank that issued them are usually cleared on the same day. Those issued by other Swiss banks typically take two business days to clear. Checks drawn on bank accounts outside of Switzerland may take five to 10 business days to clear.

Swiss banks generally charge a small fee for blank personal checks. Your bank charges you an additional fee when a personal check you write is deposited or cashed by the recipient. The recipient's bank may also charge them a fee to deposit or cash your check.

Important: If you do not have enough money in your private account to cover the amount being debited via the check, then the check will bounce. This means that the recipient's bank will take the money back out of the recipient's account. When a personal check drawn on your account bounces, your bank will normally charge you a bounced check fee.

What should I consider when writing and depositing foreign currency checks at Swiss banks?

Currency exchange rates vary between banks, and unfavorable rates can add a significant cost to transactions.

Overview of the checking fees charged by Swiss banks

Source: Price lists published by the banks themselves. Date: March 17, 2025.
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