How does roaming work in Switzerland?
Travelling to Switzerland? Discover how you can get mobile internet when in the country.
Does Revolut work in Switzerland from Ireland?
Whether it’s for business or pleasure, there are so many reasons to visit Switzerland! Renowned for its stunning landscape, fine craftsmanship and luxury goods, the country attracts visitors from around the world, all of whom have to adapt to using the local currency, the Swiss franc.
If you’re considering using Revolut in Switzerland then read on to discover what works over there, as well as the fees for using your Irish Revolut over there. You’ll also get to learn a little about Wise, an alternative provider that makes it easy to manage, receive and spend in Swiss francs.
Wise: Swiss franc and Euro
in one account 🌎
Can I use Revolut in Switzerland?
As an Irish Revolut account holder you will be able to use Revolut in Switzerland to make payments and receive money.⁸
What that looks like though is a little different to when you’re in Ireland since Switzerland uses the Swiss franc rather than the euro.
Can I use my Revolut card in Switzerland?
Your Revolut card will work in Switzerland to make payments in person and online, as well as to withdraw cash at an ATM machine.¹ You can also use the Revolut virtual cards to spend money, but not withdraw it.
Is it possible to open a Swiss franc balance with Revolut?
With an Irish Revolut account you can’t get local Swiss franc account details², but you can open a holding balance within your Revolut account.³
The money in that balance can then be spent, withdrawn in cash or sent to other Revolut users.
Can you receive Swiss franc with Revolut?
Yes. Revolut offers SWIFT account transfers for all of their supported currencies, which includes the Swiss franc.² It’s a handy option to have, which is why Wise offers it to customers as well.
| 🔎 Read more: Moving to Szwitzerland from Ireland |
|---|
Revolut fees in Switzerland 💰
When spending money and withdrawing cash in Switzerland you definitely want to be aware of how much the fees will cost you. These are the main fees to be aware of with Revolut, and how they compare to Wise.
| Transaction type | Revolut | Wise |
|---|---|---|
| Card payments | When currency conversion it's involved it's free up to a certain monthly limit based on your Revolut plan, then an exchange fee applies.⁴
| No transaction fee unless a currency conversion takes place, then a variable fee starting at 0.61% applies. |
| Cash withdrawals | A 1% or 2% fair usage fee after the monthly plan fee-free limit is exceeded.⁵
| Make 2 withdrawals of up to and including 200 EUR each month for free. After that, 0.5 EUR per withdrawal. There’s a 1,75% fee on any amount you withdraw above 200 EUR. |
Revolut exchange rate: Why you have to pay attention to
When paying for things in Switzerland, you’ll likely convert some Euros to Swiss francs. As a result, it’s important to pay attention to the exchange rate to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
Revolut determines its own variable exchange rate based on data from various feeds.⁶ You can check it on their website and the Revolut app.
Meanwhile, Wise uses the mid-market rate (the same you usually see on Google). It’s the midpoint between the buy and sell prices on the currency market, and there are no hidden fees or margins to worry about.
Wise: A great option for managing money in Switzerland
Being realistic, if you're planning a visit to Switzerland it’s very likely you'll need to exchange Euros for Swiss franc. Wise in Ireland offers a straightforward and affordable solution to manage your currency needs.
As a Wise Account holder, you can store and exchange over 40 currencies and send money to more than 160 countries, including Swiss franc. The best part? There’s no account opening or maintenance fees to worry about.
You can also order a Wise card, making everyday spending a breeze. The card prioritizes your local currency balance, and if necessary, it converts other currencies instantly at the mid-market exchnage rate.
Open your personal
Wise Account for free 🚀
Can I open a Revolut account in Switzerland?
If you meet the conditions you can open a Swiss Revolut account.⁷ To be eligible you need to be a legal resident of Switzerland, not already have an open personal account and be able to provide the following information:
- Valid mobile number
- Valid email address
- Valid government issued document
- A selfie
- Personal information.
| 🔎 Read more: Wise vs Revolut |
|---|
Sources used:
- Where can I use my Revolut card?
- What currency account details are available to me?
- Supported currencies for holding
- Fees for card payments in a foreign currency
- Fees for cash withdrawals
- Personal Fees (Standard)
- Getting started with Revolut
- Supported countries and currencies to send money
Cover photo by Bhuwan Dhingra
Sources last checked on date: 10 January 2025
*Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.
This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.
We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.
Money without borders
Find out more
Can you pay in euro in Switzerland?
Discover if the euro is accepted in Switzerland and what are the payment options you have in the country.
