Swiss Business Bank Accounts and the Capital Deposit Account Explained
Every new GmbH or AG needs a Swiss bank to confirm its share capital. Learn how the capital deposit account works, what banks ask for and how to choose a business account.
Opening a bank account is one of the first practical steps in setting up a Swiss company, and for many founders it is the slowest. If you are forming a GmbH or an AG, you cannot even get to the notary until a bank has confirmed that your share capital has been paid in.
This guide explains the two accounts you will need, what the bank will ask for and how to choose.
Two accounts: capital deposit and business account
The capital deposit account
When you found a GmbH or an AG with cash capital, the money is paid into a special capital deposit account (Kapitaleinzahlungskonto, often called a blocked account or Sperrkonto). The bank:
- opens the account in the name of the company "in formation";
- receives the capital from the founders, at least CHF 20,000 for a GmbH, or at least CHF 50,000 of the CHF 100,000 capital for an AG;
- issues a written deposit confirmation, which the notary needs for the founding deed.
The money stays blocked until the company has been entered in the commercial register. According to the federal KMU portal, the funds are then released to the company's business account once the bank receives an extract from the register.
The business current account
After registration, the capital moves into the company's normal business account, from which it pays bills, receives customer payments and pays salaries. The capital does not need to remain untouched; it belongs to the company and can be spent on legitimate business costs.
Many banks open the business account at the same time as the capital deposit account, so the switch is automatic.
What banks ask for
Swiss banks must follow strict anti-money laundering rules. Before opening accounts, they need to know who the founders are, who ultimately owns the company and where the money comes from. Expect to provide:
- passports or identity cards of all founders, directors and beneficial owners;
- proof of address;
- a draft of the articles of association and details of the company's planned activities;
- a short business plan or description of customers, suppliers and countries involved;
- information on the source of the capital, such as savings, salary or the sale of assets;
- for companies as shareholders, their own register extracts and ownership details.
Banks may ask further questions, especially for businesses in sectors they see as higher risk, such as crypto, trading or money services.
Foreign founders
Founders who live abroad can open Swiss business accounts, but it is often harder:
- some banks only accept companies with founders living in Switzerland or nearby countries;
- identity checks may require a video call or a visit to a branch;
- processing can take several weeks.
Remember, too, that the company must have a representative resident in Switzerland, a rule covered in detail in setting up as a foreign founder.
Choosing a bank
Switzerland offers several types of business banking:
- Large banks with international services and multiple currencies;
- Cantonal banks, owned by the cantons and often strong with local small businesses;
- PostFinance, widely used for payments;
- Regional and Raiffeisen banks, with a local focus;
- Digital business accounts, which can be cheaper and faster for simple needs.
When comparing, look at:
- the fee for the capital deposit service (often a few hundred francs);
- monthly account fees and transaction costs;
- foreign currency accounts if you trade in EUR or USD;
- QR-bill and e-banking features for invoicing and payments;
- whether the bank offers credit cards, loans or leasing if you need them later.
Some formation services and notaries cooperate with particular banks, which can speed things up.
Capital in foreign currency
Since the 2023 company law reform, a GmbH or AG can hold its share capital in EUR, USD, GBP or JPY if that currency is essential to its business. In that case, the capital deposit and bookkeeping are in the chosen currency. Not every bank offers this, so ask early.
After the account is open
Once your company is registered and the account is active:
- use it only for business transactions, not personal spending;
- keep statements for your bookkeeping and annual accounts;
- pay salaries and social insurance contributions from it if you employ staff;
- set aside money for VAT and corporate tax payments.
Sole proprietors do not need a capital deposit account, but a separate business account still makes bookkeeping much easier. See our guide to the sole proprietorship.
Why it matters
The bank is a gatekeeper in the Swiss formation process. Preparing clear documents about your plans and the source of your funds, and approaching banks early, can save weeks. A good business account then keeps your company's finances separate, organised and ready for growth.
Each bank sets its own conditions and fees. Compare offers directly with the banks, and ask your notary or fiduciary which banks they work with.
