Financial success in Switzerland: Your guide to smart banking, saving, and investing with UBS

Moving to Switzerland is a bold career move and an exciting chapter in life. But once the boxes are unpacked, many expats face a new challenge: navigating Switzerland's sophisticated financial system. Between managing daily expenses, understanding the Swiss tax benefits, and building long-term wealth, the to-do list can be overwhelming. 

At UBS, they specialise in making this transition seamless. Whether you’ve just arrived in Switzerland or have already started settling in, here is how you can set the right financial course from the early days.

The foundation: A UBS private account for your daily life

The first step to settling in is a Swiss bank account. You need it for everything, from receiving your salary to paying rent.

A UBS Private Account is more than just a place to store your Swiss Francs. It is your gateway to a digital-first banking experience.

Ease of Use

With the top-rated UBS Digital Banking, you can manage your finances in English (and French, Italian or German), ensuring you never miss a detail.

Worldwide Flexibility with UBS Credit Cards

As an expat, you’re likely on the move. UBS Credit Cards provide the flexibility you need: 

• Travel & purchase protection: Depending on your card, benefit from integrated travel insurance or purchase protection and travel discounts for your new lifestyle in Switzerland.
• UBS KeyClub rewards: Earn valuable bonus points every time you use your card for your daily shopping or travel. These points follow a simple 1 point = 1 CHF value system and can be redeemed like a voucher at a wide range of popular partners or used towards your own UBS banking fees.
• Full control: Manage your card limits and track transactions in real-time via the app. If you ever misplace your card, you can freeze and unfreeze it instantly with a single tap. 

Mobile payments

Use TWINT – the Swiss standard for P2P- and mobile payments – linked directly to your account for seamless local shopping. You want to share the restaurant bill, pay for the parking lot, or pay at the cash register? Simply twint it! 

Fast onboarding

UBS understands that time is precious. Download the UBS Mobile Banking App and open your UBS bank account in just 10 minutes!

Tax efficiency: The UBS Pillar 3a Retirement Account

One of the most pleasant surprises for newcomers in Switzerland is the tax-saving potential of the "3rd Pillar." If you want to reduce your tax bill while building retirement savings, the UBS Vorsorgekonto 3a is your most powerful tool. How it works:

Tax savings

Every franc you contribute to your Pillar 3a (up to the annual statutory maximum) can be deducted from your taxable income. For many expats, this results in hundreds or even thousands of francs in tax savings every year.

Long-term growth

Your retirement savings earn interest, can be invested, and the capital is exempt from wealth, income, and anticipatory taxes until withdrawal.

Flexibility

While designed for retirement, your pillar 3a assets can be used early if you decide to buy a home in Switzerland or if you leave the country permanently.

Building wealth: The UBS Investment Plan

Switzerland is a global hub for wealth management, and as an expat, you should benefit from this environment. You don't need to be a millionaire to start investing. The UBS Investment Plan (Anlageplan) is designed for those who want to grow their wealth systematically.

Start small, think big

You can begin your investment journey with regular monthly contributions. This "step-by-step" approach is perfect for building a portfolio over time.

Tailored to you

Whether you are conservative or growth-oriented, the UBS Investment Plan offers strategies that match your personal risk profile and future goals.

Why choose UBS as an expat?

Transitioning to a new country is complex, but your banking shouldn't be. UBS provides an ecosystem that makes it easy for internationals to settle in:

• English-speaking support: From their mobile app to their client advisors.
• Comprehensive services: One partner for your private account, your savings, and your investments.
• Security: Benefit from the stability and expertise of Switzerland's leading bank.
• Always close to you: They serve you either via digital channels or in one of many branches across the whole country. 

Take the first step today

Your Swiss journey is just beginning. Ensure your finances are working as hard as you are. Ready to optimise your Swiss banking? Visit the site or stop by a branch to open your account and start your Pillar 3a today.

Welcome to Switzerland. UBS is here to help you grow.