Household
US person? Plan your Swiss banking early
Overview
Some banks treat US persons differently.
The question you never knew to ask“US passport or green card? Will a Swiss bank open an account for you?”
Why it matters
US citizens and green-card holders can find fewer banks willing to open an account, because of US reporting rules the banks must follow.
Does this apply to me?
Your circumstances: Canton Bern, B permit, mixed nationalities, family with children, moving with a partner, arriving soon
Because someone in your household is a US person.
When?
Before you need a Swiss account.
What do I need?
- Passport
- US tax identification number
What do I do next?
- Tell banks up front that you are a US person and ask whether they open accounts for you.
- Read the official summary of the FATCA agreement between Switzerland and the US.
- Keep up with your US filing. Ask the IRS or a US tax adviser what applies.
Official guidance
Read official guidance from the State Secretariat for International Finance:
State Secretariat for International Finance: the FATCA agreementRead official guidance from the US Internal Revenue Service:
IRS: FATCA (US authority)
Useful resources
Our guide: Your first Swiss bank account