Switzerland uses a modern, cashless-friendly payment system. Swiss Franc (CHF) is the official currency, and electronic payments are widely accepted.
- Official currency: Swiss Franc (CHF), currency code: CHF.
- Payment methods: Cash, major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, TWINT).
- Contactless payments: Highly prevalent in shops, restaurants, and public transport.
- ATM availability: Extensive; international cards (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Cirrus) widely accepted. Some ATMs may charge a fee (typically CHF 2–5 per withdrawal).
- Currency exchange: Available at banks, airports, exchange offices, and some hotels. Banks generally offer better rates than airports or hotels.
- Foreign currency restrictions: No restrictions on importing/exporting foreign currency. However, amounts over CHF 10,000 (approx. USD 11,000/EUR 10,200) must be declared to Swiss customs.
- Large cash transactions: Cash payments above CHF 100,000 are subject to anti-money laundering checks.
- Transaction fees: Foreign card transactions may incur a surcharge (typically 1–3%).
- Major banks: UBS, Credit Suisse, PostFinance, Raiffeisen.
- Traveler advisories: Some small businesses may accept cash only. Always check for card acceptance before purchase.
