Streamlining your Swiss bank account opening

In the fast-paced world of international finance, navigating the process of opening a Swiss bank account online as a non-resident can be a daunting task. However, with the assistance of Damalion, a corporate services provider with a stellar reputation, the journey becomes not only manageable but efficient and tailored to individual needs.

Simplifying access to Swiss Banking

Opening a Swiss bank account is often associated with complex procedures, especially for non-residents. Damalion stands out as a guiding force, simplifying the intricate steps involved in the process. Damalion serves as a conduit, facilitating the opening of personal bank accounts for individuals seeking effective wealth management solutions.

Corporate banking solutions for Global Enterprises

For international businesses seeking a foothold in the Swiss financial landscape, Damalion emerges as a key player. The corporate services provider takes charge of supervising the Swiss bank account opening process on behalf of its international clients. By specializing in corporate bank accounts, Damalion ensures that businesses have a seamless entry into the Swiss financial ecosystem.

Tailored wealth management strategies

Beyond the conventional services, Damalion distinguishes itself by offering personalized wealth management solutions. Understanding the unique financial goals and preferences of their clients, the company crafts strategies that align with individual aspirations. This bespoke approach sets Damalion apart, providing a nuanced and client-centric experience in the realm of personal finance.

Navigating regulatory landscapes

The regulatory landscape surrounding Swiss banking can be intricate, posing potential challenges for non-residents. Damalion, with its expertise and experience, guides clients through the regulatory maze, ensuring compliance with all necessary requirements. This meticulous attention to detail is instrumental in expediting the account opening process and avoiding unnecessary complications.

Online convenience for global access

In an era dominated by digitalization, Damalion harnesses technology to offer online solutions for clients across the globe. The company’s online platform streamlines the application process for opening Swiss bank accounts, making it accessible to international clients from the comfort of their homes or offices.

Confidentiality and security at the forefront

Swiss banking is synonymous with a commitment to confidentiality and security. Damalion upholds these principles, prioritizing the safeguarding of client information and assets. The assurance of discretion and security is a cornerstone of Damalion’s service, fostering trust and confidence among its diverse clientele.

Damalion is as a trusted ally in the pursuit of opening Swiss bank accounts online as a non-resident. From simplifying procedures for individual clients to supervising corporate bank account openings for international businesses, Damalion’s comprehensive services cater to the diverse needs of a global clientele. With a focus on personalization, regulatory expertise, and a commitment to confidentiality, Damalion paves the way for a smooth and secure entry into the esteemed world of Swiss banking.

To open your Swiss bank account, please contact your Damalion expert now. 

Streamlining your Swiss bank account opening – clear eligibility, the “bank-ready” pack (ID, address, tax, source of funds), remote onboarding options, mapping payment flows, sector and country risk, and a step-by-step path from first contact to activation.

For individuals, entrepreneurs, family offices, holding companies, SPVs and international groups • Damalion helps with scoping, file preparation and coordination so banks can review efficiently. Acceptance is at the bank’s discretion.

Last updated:

How to move Swiss bank onboarding faster

Choose the right account type (private/wealth or corporate), show a verifiable source of funds, and present a concise profile: who you are, why you need the account, and expected activity (amounts, currencies, countries, counterparties). We help you structure the narrative and documents so compliance can complete KYC/AML checks without delay.

Documents most banks ask for

• Valid passport/ID and recent proof of address.
• Tax residency and status (TIN; US indicia where relevant).
• Source of funds proofs: salary, business sale, dividends, capital gains, inheritance, with traceable documentation.
• For companies: certificate of incorporation, articles, register extract, ownership and control chart, signatory powers, business description.
• Expected use: incoming/outgoing volumes, currencies, countries, typical counterparties over 12 months.
• Certified translations and apostilles when requested by the bank.

Account types at a glance

Topic	Private / Wealth	Corporate
Use	Savings, portfolio, custody	Operations, suppliers, payroll, clients
Documents	ID, address, tax, source of funds	As private plus registration, ownership/control, signatory rules
Minimums	Varies; higher for wealth tiers	Ongoing fees and evidence of genuine activity
Timeline	Fast when the profile is clear and complete	Depends on sector, countries and payment pattern

Onboarding steps

1. Initial fit. Align purpose, account tier and fees with your needs; shortlist banks.
2. Prepare the pack. ID, address, tax status, source of funds; add company papers if corporate.
3. Map payment flows. Volumes, currencies, countries, counterparties — concise and consistent.
4. Compliance review. Answer follow-ups quickly; keep one clean trail of evidence.
5. Activation and first funding. IBAN issued, test payments cleared, user rights configured.

Costs and timelines

• Setup, monthly account fees, payment and card fees depend on bank and tier.
• Minimum funding often applies for private banking; corporate accounts see ongoing fees.
• From complete file to active account: a few days to a few weeks, depending on profile.

Related reading

• Comprehensive guide to Swiss bank accounts
• Acceptance playbook for Swiss bank accounts
• Register your company in Switzerland as a non-resident
• More articles on bank accounts

Frequently asked questions

Can non-residents open an account in Switzerland?

Yes. Swiss banks review each file under their risk policies. A clear purpose, verifiable source of funds and complete documentation are required.

Which identification documents are standard?

Valid government ID or passport and recent proof of address. Additional checks may apply under Swiss AML rules and bank policy.

What does “source of funds” mean in practice?

Documented origin of the money to be deposited, such as salary, dividends, proceeds of sale or inheritance, supported by contracts, payslips, statements or notarial records.

Do banks verify beneficial owners of companies?

Yes. Banks must identify controlling persons and beneficial owners of corporate clients and obtain ownership and control information before account opening.

Is remote onboarding available?

Many banks accept remote identification with enhanced checks. Some may still request an in-person meeting before activation.

Are there minimum deposit or asset thresholds?

Private banking often sets minimum assets. Corporate current accounts typically charge ongoing fees and expect genuine operating activity.

How long does the process take?

From a few days to a few weeks after submission of a complete file. Timelines depend on client profile, sector and countries involved.

How are politically exposed persons treated?

PEP files are subject to enhanced due diligence, senior approval and stricter monitoring. Acceptance is strictly case-by-case.

What about sanctioned countries or persons?

Banks screen clients and transactions against applicable sanctions lists. Links to sanctions may lead to rejection or account restrictions.

Are nominees or undisclosed arrangements accepted?

Banks require transparency on ownership and control. Undisclosed nominee structures or sham arrangements are not acceptable.

Which tax disclosures apply?

Clients must provide accurate tax residency information. Swiss banks collect self-certifications and report under CRS and, where relevant, FATCA.

Can the bank decline without giving reasons?

Yes. Banks decide under their risk policies and legal duties. A different bank may have a different risk appetite.

Will translations or apostilles be needed?

Only if the bank requests them. Certified translations and apostilles may be required for documents not issued in accepted languages.

How are cross-border payments assessed?

Banks review expected payment flows, currencies, counterparties and countries. Higher-risk routes may trigger additional controls.

What internal controls should a company set?

Defined user roles, payment limits, dual approval where appropriate, and written signatory rules to keep operations auditable.

How is personal data handled?

Banks process data to meet legal obligations and risk controls. Data is retained according to legal retention rules and bank policy.

Can I hold multiple currencies?

Yes. Multi-currency accounts and sub-accounts are common. Some fees and FX margins apply.

What happens if information changes after opening?

Clients must update the bank promptly about changes in address, tax status, ownership or business activity.

What if my file is incomplete?

The bank will request missing items. Prolonged gaps or inconsistent information may lead to delays or refusal.

Is advice on tax or law included?

No. Banks expect clients to obtain independent tax and legal advice where appropriate. Account opening does not replace such advice.

City guides: Geneva • Zurich