Credit Cards in Switzerland: Comparison and Overview (2025)
There are dozens of credit cards available in Switzerland. Is it an interesting choice to optimize your finances? The answer is yes. An analysis conducted by moneyland.ch reveals that you can save several hundred francs per year by changing cards. This is the objective of this page: we explore the best credit card options available in Switzerland to explain them: free cards, premium cards, annual fees, cashback, bonus points, miles, insurance, customizable cards, etc.
How to save money with your credit card in Switzerland?
With additional costs that can go up to 4.5%, the variation in fees between bank cards is worth considering.
For maximum savings, your card system should cover all situations, regardless of frequency or regularity of use:
Do you need a different card to pay in Switzerland, online, or abroad?
Fees to be aware of (free and paying cards)
Annual fee
- Free cards: have no annual fees, but may generate fees (withdrawals, payments abroad or currency exchange)
- Paid cards: between 50 CHF and 200 CHF per year
→ The first year is often free or at a reduced price
Fees in Switzerland
- Payments: are generally free
- Cash withdrawals:
→ 3.75% of the amount with a minimum of 5 to 10 CHF per withdrawal
Fees abroad
- Exchange commission (only): from 1.5% to 2.5%
- Withdrawals: same fees as in Switzerland (3.75% or min. 5–10 CHF), but sometimes with exchange or processing fees.
- Some cards offer 0% exchange fees like Revolut Neon or Yuh (debit cards). Consider these for travel.
Benefits that offset fees (reality vs. marketing)
- Cashback: between 0.3% and 1%
- Bonus points: variable value depending on the retailers
- Insurance: cancellation, delay, theft, etc.
Some paid cards can become profitable, as the benefits they offer can exceed their annual fee.
Pay more to earn more? I’ve heard that one before!
Neo – Unsolicited advice (as usual).
Which credit card and for whom? Recommendations by user profile
How to choose the right card?
Before going into detail, here’s a brief overview of 4 typical profiles and what we’re looking to optimize with their card. You may recognize yourself in one (or more) of these cases.
| User Profile | Usage | Advantage | We’re looking for |
| Frequent | Daily payments | Cashback | Earning on every purchase |
| Occasional | One-off payments + online | Simplicity | Fee-free card |
| Foreign Payments | Currency payments | Exchange | Competitive rate |
| Traveler | Regular trips | Suitable insurance | Solid coverage, no bad surprises |
Credit card or debit card?
Big question:
➜ Credit cards offer better insurance coverage and allow for reservations (car, hotel).
➜ Neo-bank debit cards are the only ones offering 0% exchange fees.
We often combine a credit card for coverage and a debit card for foreign payments.
What’s your profile?
Frequent User – the silicon chip is grafted directly onto the skin
If you use your credit card as the main payment method for everything you do daily via card, mobile payment/smartwatch. You use your credit card every time you go abroad (regularly). You withdraw cash occasionally.
My quick recommendations ⚡️
Swisscard Cashback Cards Amex
✔︎ best cashback ratio (up to 1%) if you centralize your payments.
Certo Mastercard (Cembra)
✔︎ good cashback with no annual fees, wide acceptance, good mobile compatibility.
As a complement 💡
Wise (debit)
✔︎ very good exchange rates, low fees, ideal for recurring currency payments or occasional trips.
Comparison 🔎
| Card | Type | Fees/year | Exchange | Withdrawals | Ideal for |
| Amex Cashback | Credit | 0 CHF | 1.5–2.5% | 3.75 % | Maximize cashback |
| Certo Mastercard | Credit | 0 CHF | 1.5–2.0% | 3.75 % | Daily purchases |
| Wise | Debit | 0 CHF | 0.4–1.3% | 1.75 % | Competitive rate in foreign currencies |
Occasional User – on the verge of extinction, we love it, soon there will be none left
If you use your credit card as a complement to other payment methods, mainly for online purchases and reservations. You also use it during your trips abroad (1-2 times a year). You almost never withdraw cash with your credit card.
My quick recommendations ⚡️
Swisscard Cashback Visa/Mastercard
✔︎ free, simple, with moderate cashback (0.3–0.8%)
Certo Mastercard
✔︎ versatile, no annual fees, suitable for irregular use.
As a complement 💡
Yuh (debit)
✔︎ competitive exchange (0.95%), useful card with no monthly fees.
Comparison 🔎
| Card | Type | Fees/year | Exchange | Withdrawals | Ideal for |
| Swisscard Cashback Visa | Credit | 0 CHF | 1.5–2.5% | 3.75 % | Simple payments cashback |
| Certo Mastercard | Credit | 0 CHF | 1.5–2.0% | 3.75 % | Occasional use |
| Yuh | Debit | 0 CHF | 0.95 % | 4.90 CHF | EUR, USD payments… |
Paying Abroad – CHF Stays at the Border
You live in Switzerland, but you often pay in EUR: shopping across the border, a restaurant, an online shop in Europe or a subscription billed from the EU. You use your card for cross-border or digital payments, without necessarily traveling.
You’re looking for a good exchange rate, no unnecessary fees, and a reliable card for currency payments.
My quick recommendations ⚡️
Cumulus Visa (Migros)
✔︎ fees on currency payments removed since 2022.
Certo Mastercard
✔︎ useful cashback, but to be combined with a card optimized for foreign use.
As a complement 💡
Neon (debit)
✔︎ Mastercard rate without surcharge, no exchange fees, excellent solution for online and cross-border payments.
Wise (debit)
✔︎ very good choice (excellent rate) for frequent payments in multiple currencies with transparency on rates.
Comparison 🔎
| Card | Type | Fees/year | Exchange | Withdrawals | Ideal for |
| Cumulus Visa | Credit | 0 CHF | 0% (payment) | 3.75 % | EUR/online without exchange fees |
| Neon | Debit | 0 CHF | 0 % | 1.5 % | Online interbank payment |
| Wise | Debit | 0 CHF | 0.4–1.3% | 1.75 % | EUR, USD payments… |
Traveler – the airport is your second home
If you use your credit card mainly for your trips abroad: plane tickets, hotels, restaurants, on-site purchases… it’s your trusted ally at every customs checkpoint. You often pay in foreign currencies and need a reliable card, accepted everywhere, with minimal hidden fees.
You mainly expect reduced or zero exchange fees, solid travel insurance (cancellation, luggage, health), and no unpleasant surprises on the other side of the world. You sometimes withdraw cash, but always prefer direct payment, especially via mobile or smartwatch.
My quick recommendations ⚡️
Cumulus Visa (Migros)
✔︎ no fees on foreign payments, but withdrawal fees still present (3.75%).
Certo Mastercard
✔︎ good cashback, wide acceptance, but needs to be complemented for international optimization.
As a complement 💡
Revolut Meta (debit)
✔︎ 0% exchange fees, free withdrawals up to 800 CHF/month, travel insurance included.
SWISS Miles More Amex
✔︎ allows accumulating miles and offers useful insurance if you often fly with Star Alliance.
Comparison 🔎
| Card | Type | Fees/year | Exchange | Withdrawals | Ideal for |
| Revolut Metal | Debit | 228 CHF/year | 0 % | 0% (800 CHF/month) | Zero fees, complete travel |
| Miles More | Credit | 120 CHF | 1.5–2% | 3.75 % | Accumulating miles + insurance |
| Certo Mastercard | Credit | 0 CHF | 1.5–2.0% | 3.75 % | Mobile payments + wide acceptance |
What are the cheapest credit cards in Switzerland in 2025 (according to moneyland)
Two user profiles 👥 were simulated by moneyland.ch in an analysis:
The occasional user:
– buys 200 CHF per month in Switzerland with their credit card
– with 1000 EUR per year abroad
(calculated over two years)
The frequent user:
– buys 1000 CHF per month in Switzerland with their credit card
– with 5000 EUR per year abroad
Also includes 5 withdrawals/year of 200 CHF in Switzerland and 5 withdrawals of 200 abroad
(calculated over two years)
The cheapest credit cards based on usage
| Fees over 2 years for users | occasional | frequent |
| Swisscard Cashback Cards Amex | -15.55 CHF | 319.50 CHF |
| Poinz Swiss Loyalty Card Amex | 1.35 CHF | 319.50 CHF |
| Migros Cumulus Visa Credit Card | 35.20 CHF | 343.65 CHF |
| Coop Supercard Visa / Mastercard | 43.10 CHF | 455.70 CHF |
| Manor World Mastercard | 48.65 CHF | 514.25 CHF |
With the same credit cards, fees can be quite different depending on usage.
🎯 Which cards are most advantageous for you?
In this article, we present almost all credit cards available in Switzerland in 2025 based on your needs.
Free Credit Cards in Switzerland – Without Annual Fees
Swisscard Cashback – Amex Credit Card
This free card offers cashback with no annual fee: 0.5% on purchases in Switzerland and 1% abroad. This is particularly advantageous for travel and international purchases.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
• SwatchPAY!
Insurance:
• Purchase return insurance up to 1000 francs per year, useful in case of problems with a purchase
The Swisscard Cashback Amex is an interesting option for those looking for cashback without fees, especially for international spending. But the limited acceptance of Amex in Switzerland may require a secondary card.
Poinz Card – Amex Credit Card
This free card offers 0.5% cashback on all purchases, with no annual fee. It integrates with the Poinz application, enabling points to be accumulated at various partner merchants.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
• SwatchPAY!
Insurance:
• –
The Poinz Card is an interesting option to combine cashback and a local loyalty program, without fees. But like any Amex card, its acceptance may be limited at some Swiss merchants.
Certo One – Mastercard Credit Card
This Mastercard offers 0.5% cashback on all purchases, with no annual fee. It includes a best price guarantee and purchase insurance, offering additional protection for your spending.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
• SwatchPAY!
• Garmin Pay
• Fitbit Pay
• Fidesmo Pay
Insurance:
– Best price guarantee
– Purchasing insurance
The Certo One is an interesting option for having a free credit card with cashback and good acceptance in Switzerland, combined with useful everyday insurance.
LOEB Club – Visa Credit Card
This Visa card offers 0.5% cashback on all purchases, with no annual fee. It is particularly advantageous for purchases at LOEB, where it offers additional discounts and special offers.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
• Garmin Pay
Insurance:
• –
The LOEB Club Visa is an interesting option for regular LOEB customers who want to benefit from cashback on all their purchases, without annual fees.
Swisscard Cashback – Visa/Mastercard credit card
This card offers cashback of 0.3% on purchases in Switzerland and 0.8% abroad, with no annual fee. It is available in Visa or Mastercard versions, ensuring wide acceptance.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
• SwatchPAY!
Insurance:
– Returned goods insurance
The Swisscard Cashback Visa/Mastercard is a versatile option: cashback without fees, with almost universal acceptance and benefits for purchases abroad.
Key takeaways:
• The real gain depends on the cashback rate and card acceptance.
• A card with 1% cashback is only profitable if it can be used everywhere.
→ A widely accepted card with 0.5% is better than an unusable card with 1%.
Credit Cards with Loyalty Bonus Points
Migros Cumulus – Visa credit card
This free card offers 0.33 Cumulus points per franc spent, and 1 point per franc at Migros. It is part of the Cumulus loyalty program, which is very popular in Switzerland.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
• SwatchPAY!
• Garmin Pay
• Fitbit Pay
Insurance:
– Travel insurance
The Migros Cumulus Visa is a flagship option in Switzerland for the many regular Migros customers who want to maximize their Cumulus points, without annual fees.
Coop Supercard – Visa/Mastercard credit card
This free card offers 1 Supercard point for every franc spent. It fits in perfectly with Coop’s loyalty program, one of the largest in Switzerland.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
• SwatchPAY!
• TWINT (Supercard integration)
Insurance:
– Travel Flight Accident Insurance
– SOS Assistance
The Coop Supercard is an interesting option for loyal Coop customers who want to accumulate points on all their purchases, without annual fees.
Manor World – Mastercard credit card
This free card offers 1 Manor point per franc spent, and 2 points per franc spent at Manor. It includes additional benefits for purchases at Manor.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• –
Insurance:
– Best Price Guarantee
– Purchase Protection Insurance
The Manor World Mastercard is a good option for regular Manor customers who want to maximize benefits, without annual fees.
SPAR – Mastercard World credit card
Free SPAR card allows accumulating 1 SPAR point per franc spent. No cashback, no mobile service (incompatible with Apple Pay or Google Pay), and 1.5% fees abroad. Customizable design for 30 CHF. A strictly minimalist choice.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Not compatible with Apple Pay and Google Pay
Insurance:
• Travel accidents
• Assistance abroad
The SPAR Mastercard can be suitable as a supplementary card without annual fees, but it offers no real value outside the SPAR loyalty program.
IKEA Family – Mastercard credit card
This free card offers 1 IKEA point per franc spent, and 3 points per franc spent at IKEA. It includes additional benefits for IKEA Family members.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
• SwatchPAY!
• Garmin Pay
• Fitbit Pay
Insurance:
– Best price guarantee
– Purchasing insurance
The IKEA Family Mastercard is an interesting option for all regular IKEA customers. It allows maximizing benefits and accumulating points quickly, without annual fees.
Fnac Mastercard – Mastercard credit card
This free card offers loyalty points on all purchases made at Fnac in-store and on Fnac.ch. It is particularly advantageous for regular Fnac customers.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
• SwatchPAY!
• Garmin Pay
Insurance:
• Travel and fraudulent use of the card (optional)
The Fnac Mastercard is an interesting option if you want to accumulate Fnac points on your purchases, without annual fees. It also offers the flexibility of installment payments and access to the Cembra app to easily manage transactions. The interest rate of 11.95% for installment payments can be high if not repaid quickly.
LIPO – Mastercard credit card
This free card offers 1 LIPO point per franc spent. It is particularly advantageous for purchases at LIPO, offering discounts and special offers.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
• SwatchPAY!
• Garmin Pay
• Fitbit Pay
Insurance:
– –
The LIPO Mastercard is an interesting option if you’re a regular LIPO customer and want to accumulate points on all your purchases, without annual fees.
Key takeaways?
• These cards can be useful if you’re already a loyal customer of a brand (Coop, IKEA, etc.).
• They rarely offer benefits outside their network and are therefore limited as a primary card.
→ Consider them as a complement, not really as a universal solution.
Credit Cards with Cashback
TCS Member – Mastercard credit card
Free card reserved for TCS members. It gives access to 1% cashback at SWISS, SBB, Airbnb or Mobility, as well as discounts on fuel (up to 5 cts/L), electric charging (5%) or parking in Switzerland (20% via the TCS app). No annual fee, but reserved for people active in the TCS ecosystem.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
• SwatchPAY!
• Garmin Pay
• Fitbit Pay
Insurance:
• Purchases
• Travel assistance
The TCS Member Mastercard is interesting as a secondary card if you already benefit from partner services. Otherwise, it brings few differentiating advantages.
PostFinance – Mastercard/Visa Standard credit card
This card offers 0.3% cashback on all purchases, with annual fees. It integrates perfectly with PostFinance banking s
ervices, facilitating expense management.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
• SwatchPAY!
• Garmin Pay
• Fitbit Pay
• Xiaomi Pay
• Fidesmo Pay
• DIGISEQ Pay
Insurance:
– Basic travel insurance
The PostFinance Standard is a convenient option for PostFinance customers who want modest cashback and easy integration with their existing accounts.
Cornèrcard – Visa/Mastercard Classic credit card
Standard credit card with an annual fee of 100 CHF. It offers 0.5% cashback on purchases (credited once the amount reaches 25 CHF).
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
• SwatchPAY!
• Garmin Pay
Insurance:
• Purchase protection for 45 days
• Best price guarantee
The Cornèrcard Classic can be suitable as a single card if you’re looking for some cashback with useful insurance, without focusing on complex bonuses.
Swisscard – American Express credit card
This free American Express card offers 0.5% cashback on all purchases, with an annual fee. It includes extensive travel insurance and special offers with selected partners.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Samsung Pay
Insurance:
• Purchase protection
• Best price guarantee
The Swisscard Amex is an interesting option for maximizing cashback on everyday expenses, despite the annual fees and limited acceptance of Amex in Switzerland.
Cornèrcard Zoom – Visa/Mastercard credit card
This card offers 0.5% cashback on all purchases, with an annual fee. It is specially designed for young people and students, with more flexible terms and conditions.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
Insurance:
• Purchase protection (optional)
The Cornèrcard Zoom is designed for young people who are starting to use a credit card, with good cashback despite the annual fees.
Cornèrcard WWF – Visa credit card
This Visa card offers 0.5% cashback on all purchases, with an annual fee. A portion of spending is donated to WWF to support environmental projects.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
• SwatchPAY!
• Garmin Pay
Insurance:
• 45-day purchase protection
• Best price guarantee
• Legal protection
The Cornèrcard WWF is an interesting option to combine cashback and support for the environment.
PostFinance – Mastercard/Visa Gold credit card
This top-of-the-range card offers 0.5% cashback on all purchases, with a higher annual fee. It includes extensive travel insurance and concierge services.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
• SwatchPAY!
• Garmin Pay
• Fitbit Pay
Insurance:
– Comprehensive travel insurance
The PostFinance Gold is a premium option for those who travel frequently and appreciate high-end services.
Key takeaways?
• The Cornèrcard Classic offers a good compromise: decent cashback and useful insurance.
• The TCS card is interesting if you’re already a member and use their partners.
• PostFinance only offers 0.3% cashback, without exchange rate benefits or insurance. It’s only useful if you already centralize your finances with them.
→ These cards are rarely the most cost-effective as a primary card.
Real cashback vs. marketing: how much do you really earn?
It’s true that cashback can seem attractive… but the return is often lower than you might imagine. For example:
0.5% cashback = 50 CHF for 10,000 CHF of expenses
If the card costs 100 CHF/year, you need to spend 20,000 CHF/year just to break even.
A free card with cashback is profitable from the first franc spent.
A paid card is only worth it if it brings other clear benefits: insurance, lounge access, travel assistance, etc.
The Best Credit Card for Traveling?
SWISS Miles More Classic
This card duo allows you to accumulate miles with each expense: 1.5 miles per 2 CHF with American Express, 0.6 miles per 2 CHF with Mastercard. The miles expire after 36 months, unless you make at least one eligible purchase per month. Miles can be used for award flights, upgrades, or services with SWISS, Lufthansa, or other Star Alliance companies. In return, you have to accept an annual fee of 120 CHF for the complete package.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
Insurance:
• Transport accidents (up to 700,000 CHF)
• Travel inconveniences (up to 700 CHF)
• Search, rescue, and recovery costs (up to 60,000 CHF)
The Miles More Classic duo can be suitable if you travel regularly with SWISS, Lufthansa, or Star Alliance partners, and optimize miles for award tickets or upgrades.
Amex Gold
Suitable for frequent travelers. It offers exclusive benefits such as Priority Pass for airport lounges and extensive insurance. Each franc spent earns Membership Rewards (MR) points, which can be used for hotel nights, upgrades, or flight tickets. In Switzerland, these points are even convertible to Miles More miles, so they can be used with SWISS, Lufthansa, Eurowings, and all Star Alliance companies. It’s an alternative to Swiss Miles More cards that credit miles directly with each purchase. The Amex Gold offers more freedom in using points but requires a bit more involvement to maximize the benefits.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
Insurance:
• Travel accident insurance up to 500,000 CHF
• Trip cancellation insurance up to 10,000 CHF
• Baggage insurance up to 5,000 CHF
To fully benefit from the Amex Gold, it’s best to use it for as many purchases as possible. Each payment earns points that can be converted into miles or travel benefits. Sometimes, special offers add a bonus to the conversion, such as +25% Miles More miles.
Revolut Metal – debit card
This premium metal card offers attractive cashback of up to 1% on all purchases, as well as exclusive benefits for travelers, such as free withdrawals abroad up to 800 CHF per month and comprehensive travel insurance.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Fitbit Pay
• Garmin Pay
Insurance:
• Travel insurance (cancellation, flight delay, lost luggage)
• Emergency medical and dental insurance abroad
• Purchase protection guarantee up to 10,000 CHF/year
• Car rental insurance (deductible included)
The Revolut Metal is an ideal option for frequent travelers. However, its monthly cost (18.99 CHF/month) may be a deterrent for those who don’t fully utilize the included services.
Key takeaways:
• Premium cards include travel insurance, but exchange fees remain high.
• Revolut Metal is the only one combining optimized exchange, included withdrawals, and extensive coverage, but with a paid subscription.
If the goal is to pay outside CHF, a neo-bank debit card is still always more advantageous.
Are miles still worth it?
Many cards promise miles with every spend. But what is their real value in 2025?
Miles often expire after 36 months.
Their value varies and is sometimes not transparent (1 mile = ? CHF?).
You need to centralize all your expenses on the same card to hope for a concrete return.
Useful alternative if you’re looking for benefits:
The Amex Gold: points can be converted into miles or hotel nights.
Cashback: offers a more direct, flexible, and predictable gain.
Miles are worth it only if you fly regularly with SWISS, Lufthansa, or other Star Alliance companies.
Otherwise, a good cashback will do the same job, with fewer constraints.
Which card should I use to rent a car?
Credit Cards for Paying Abroad?
It’s not the payments themselves that are problematic.
It’s the invisible fees that add up:
- the exchange rate (or conversion fee)
- fixed fees or percentage on foreign currency withdrawals
Fees vary greatly depending on the cards.
For advice specific to travel / holidays / abroad, read our specialized article:
What is the best bank card for traveling abroad?
Comparison of Swiss credit (and debit) cards for travel
| ✈️ Card / Bank | Type | Currencies | Exchange Fees | Foreign withdrawal fees |
| Alpian | debit | CHF, EUR, USD, GBP | 0.2% on weekdays, 0.5% on weekends | 2.5% of the amount |
| Amex Cashback | credit | Multi-currency (online payment) | Amex rate without added fees | ~3.75% of the amount |
| Coop Mastercard | credit | Multi-currency | 1.75% – 2.5% depending on the operation | ~3.75% of the amount |
| CSX | debit | CHF | 2.5% of the amount | 4.75 CHF + 0.25% of the amount |
| Cumulus Visa | credit | Multi-currency | 1.5% – 2.0% depending on the operation | ~3.75% of the amount |
| Manor Mastercard | credit | Multi-currency | ~2.5% | ~3.75% of the amount |
| N26 | debit | EUR | No exchange fees | 2 free EUR withdrawals/month, then 2 €, 1.7% other currencies |
| Neon | debit | CHF | Mastercard rate increased by 0.35% | 1.5% of the amount |
| Poinz Amex | credit | Multi-currency | Amex rate without added fees | ~3.75% of the amount |
| Radicant | debit | CHF | 0%, Mastercard rate without added fees | 5.00 CHF per withdrawal |
| Revolut (Standard) | debit | Multi-currency | 0% up to 1,000 CHF/month, then 0.5% | Free up to 200 CHF/month, then 2% |
| Revolut Metal | debit | Multi-currency | 0%, no limit | Free up to 800 CHF/month, then 2% |
| Wise | debit | Multi-currency | 0.4% – 1.3% depending on currency (avg. 0.85%) | Free up to 250 CHF/month, then 1.75% + 0.5 CHF/withdrawal |
| Yuh | debit | CHF, EUR, USD | 0.95%, no exchange on weekends | 4.90 CHF per withdrawal |
| Zak | debit | CHF | 2% of the amount | 2% + 5.00 CHF per withdrawal |
And in practice?
Here’s a realistic scenario to understand:
✈️ For a short trip with 5 payments + 3 withdrawals abroad
What this fee simulation really shows
There are not only differences.
The simulation reveals three concrete trends to keep in mind:
1. ‘Free’ cards can be expensive abroad
CSX, Zak, Coop, Manor, Cumulus Visa exceed 20 CHF in fees on a simple stay.
The reason: increased exchange rates and cumulative withdrawal fees
2. The most efficient cards in use sometimes have a fixed cost
- Revolut Metal is the only card without any fees in the tested scenario (payments + withdrawals), but this assumes paying a monthly subscription (18.99 CHF).
- Revolut Standard remains very competitive as long as you stay under the free limits.
- Amex Cashback and Poinz are excellent for online or foreign payments, but should not be used for withdrawals.
3. Neo-banks perform well with payments, but less so with withdrawals
- Wise remains a good hybrid alternative: moderate fees + free withdrawals up to 250 CHF/month.
- Neon (Plus) and Radicant allow payments abroad without any exchange fees.
- Yuh, on the other hand, charges 0.95% on payments in currencies other than CHF, EUR, or USD.
Note:
Yuh offers a native multi-currency account (CHF, EUR, USD), convenient for avoiding conversion if you receive or store funds in these currencies.
But for withdrawals, fees remain high:
- Neon: 1.5%, or 1.0% with neon Plus
- Radicant: 5 CHF per withdrawal
- Yuh: 4.90 CHF from the first withdrawal
So, these cards are excellent for payments, but not well-suited for frequent withdrawals.
How to avoid hidden fees abroad?
Even free cards can generate more than 20 CHF in fees on a short stay abroad, especially CSX, Zak, Coop, Manor or Cumulus Visa, which apply fees on exchange and withdrawals.
But several neo-banks allow limiting costs, provided you know their limits or restrictions well:
- Revolut Metal is the only card without any fees, including payments and withdrawals, but costs 18.99 CHF/month.
- Revolut Standard remains very competitive, as long as you stay under the free limits (1,000 CHF in payments, 200 CHF in withdrawals).
- Wise offers a good compromise, with a real rate on conversions and 250 CHF/month of free withdrawals.
- Radicant is ideal for currency payments (0% fees, including exotic currencies), but charges 5 CHF per withdrawal.
- neon Plus offers 0% exchange for 2 CHF/month, but withdrawals are still charged (1.0–1.5%).
- Yuh applies 0.95% fees on payments (excluding EUR/USD) and 4.90 CHF per withdrawal.
So to limit fees, you should:
- Avoid frequent withdrawals in foreign currency, or limit them to strategic amounts.
- Prefer direct payments with cards that have no exchange fees.
- Refuse a payment converted to CHF at the checkout.
The article How to pay when traveling? Which card? What pitfalls? Best practices to save on fees in 2025 goes into all the useful details and tips to minimize fees abroad as much as possible.
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Neo-bank debit cards: the foundation of a good strategy
No credit card allows payment abroad without exchange fees. None.
This is where neo-banks become essential. Their debit cards allow you to avoid invisible markups on foreign currency payments. And since we already analyze them on heyneo.ch, it’s obvious to include them here.
They don’t replace a credit card, but they are the basic solution for payments outside Switzerland (or online in foreign currencies).
The ideal is therefore to combine:
A neo-bank debit card for all foreign currency payments (and sometimes for daily use).
A free (or optimized) credit card for cashback, insurance, and reservations.
Neon – Mastercard (debit card)
Free card with no monthly fees. Foreign currency payments use the Mastercard rate, without commission. Withdrawals are free in Switzerland up to twice a month, then charged 2 CHF. Abroad, each withdrawal is charged 1.5%. There is no foreign currency account.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
• SwatchPAY!
• Garmin Pay
Insurance:
• None
Neon is a reliable solution for foreign currency payments, but remains limited on international withdrawals and multi-currency usage.
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Yuh – Visa (debit card)
Free card with accounts in CHF, EUR, and USD. The exchange rate is fixed at 0.95%. Withdrawals are free once a week in Switzerland, then charged 1.90 CHF; abroad, each withdrawal costs 4.90 CHF. Native Swiss IBAN.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
• TWINT (native app)
Insurance:
• None
Yuh offers a simple and clear approach to managing the three main currencies, but remains rigid for withdrawals and limited on secondary currencies.
Revolut – Visa/Mastercard (debit card)
Free card (shipping charged 5.99 CHF). Foreign currency payments are free up to 1,250 CHF/month on weekdays, then charged 1%. Withdrawals are free up to 200 CHF/month, then 2%. No Swiss IBAN.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
• Garmin Pay
• Fitbit Pay
Insurance:
Included only with Revolut Premium, Metal or Ultra:
– Travel insurance
– Overseas medical coverage
– Cancellation car rental (deductible)
– Lost luggage, delays
Revolut is an efficient card for foreign exchange and international payments, provided you stay within the free limits.
Wise – Mastercard (debit card)
Free card with over 50 currencies available. Payments use the real market rate, with fees from 0.4 to 1.3% depending on the currency. Two free withdrawals up to 200 CHF/month, then 1.75%. No CH IBAN, no QR-bills.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
Insurance:
• None
Wise is the most flexible tool for managing multiple currencies, but remains poorly integrated into the Swiss banking ecosystem.
Promo Code
Free account ✔︎
Alpian – Visa (debit card)
Metal card included from 10,000 CHF deposit. Payments in CHF, EUR, USD, and GBP are charged 0.2% on weekdays, 0.5% on weekends. Withdrawals cost 2 CHF in Switzerland and 2.5% abroad. CH IBAN, but no full multi-currency.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
Insurance:
• None
Alpian offers a very good exchange rate on major currencies.
Alpian Promo Code
Free account ✔︎
Radicant – Mastercard (debit card)
Free card with Mastercard exchange rate without markup. 12 free withdrawals/year, then 2 CHF. Each withdrawal abroad is charged 5 CHF. No international transfers. Swiss IBAN.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
Insurance:
• None
Radicant integrates well with an ethical approach, but its withdrawal fees and limitations exclude it from international usage.
Promo Code
Free account ✔︎
Zak – Visa (debit card)
Free card, but currency exchange is charged 2%. Each withdrawal abroad costs 5 CHF + 2%. No foreign currency account. TWINT available via UBS. Swiss IBAN.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
• TWINT
Insurance:
• None
Zak is sufficient for CHF-only usage, but too penalizing for foreign use.
Promo Code
Free account ✔︎
CSX – Mastercard (debit card)
Free card with 2.5% exchange rate and withdrawals abroad charged 4.75 CHF + 0.25%. No multi-currency account. High-performance app for Switzerland.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
• Samsung Pay
• SwatchPAY!
• Garmin Pay
• Fitbit Pay
Insurance:
• None
CSX has no benefit for foreign payments, but remains functional for domestic use.
Yapeal – Visa (debit card)
Free card with 1.5% exchange rate. Each withdrawal abroad costs 5 CHF. No TWINT access or QR-bills. Swiss IBAN. Insurance only with paid plans.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
Insurance:
• With paid plans (Secure and above):
– Travel
– Cancellation
– Delays and luggage
Yapeal may be suitable for local use, but lacks competitiveness abroad.
N26 – Mastercard (debit card)
Free card with German IBAN. Fee-free EUR payments. Two free withdrawals in the euro zone, then €2; outside EUR: 1.7%. No connection to TWINT or Swiss payments.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Google Pay
Insurance:
• With You or Metal offers:
– Travel
– Health abroad
– Theft, cancellation, rental
N26 is suitable for cross-border workers or for payments in the euro zone, a good complement that can be integrated alongside a Swiss account.
Promo Code
Free account ✔︎
Comparison of Neo-Bank Debit Cards
| Card | Exchange Fees | Withdrawals | TWINT | Transaction fees |
| Neon | Mastercard rate | 2x CH free, 1.5% foreign | Via QR | None |
| Yuh | 0.95% fixed | 1x/week CH free, 1.90 / 4.90 CHF foreign | Native app | None |
| Revolut | 0% ≤ 1,250 CHF, then 1% | 200 CHF free, then 2% | No | None (within limits) |
| Wise | 0.4–1.3% | 2x ≤ 200 CHF, then 1.75% | No | None |
| Alpian | 0.2 % / 0.5 % | 2 CHF CH, 2.5% foreign | Prepaid | None |
| Radicant | Mastercard rate | 12x/year free, then 2 CHF / 5 CHF | Integrated | None |
| Zak | 2 % | 2% + 5 CHF foreign | Via UBS | 0 CHF (CHF) / 2% (foreign) |
| CSX | 2.5 % | 4.75 CHF + 0.25% | Via CS | 2.5% foreign currency |
| Yapeal | 1.5 % | 5 CHF foreign | No | 1.5% foreign currency |
| N26 | 0% EUR / 1.7% others | 2x EUR free, then €2 / 1.7% | No | 0% EUR / 1.7% foreign |
Key takeaways?
• Neon, Revolut, Wise and Yuh are the best options for paying abroad without hidden fees.
• Zak, CSX and Yapeal remain uncompetitive as soon as you leave Switzerland.
→ These cards do not replace a credit card, but are essential in any optimized payment strategy.
Neon, Revolut, Wise and Yuh is the basic quartet to combine with a credit card.
2025 Strategy – One or two cards?
No card does everything, and even the best options have their limits: low cashback, limited acceptance, hidden fees.
Having a single card:
→ It’s simpler to manage,
→ but you often have to compromise (cashback, but fees abroad or vice versa)
So in 2025, the most effective strategy remains a targeted combination.
💳 + 💳 My Card Combination Recommendations – My Strategies:
| The Need | Card 1 | Card 2 |
| Cashback + foreign currency payments | Amex Cashback | Wise |
| Shopping + fee-free withdrawals | Cumulus Visa | Neon |
| Accumulate miles while limiting fees outside Switzerland | SWISS Miles More | Yuh |
| Wide acceptance + enhanced services | Certo One Mastercard | Revolut Metal |
✘ What to avoid: limiting yourself to a single “default” card
✔ What to aim for: two complementary cards, fee-free, each optimized for a specific use
Which card should I use to rent a car?
Is it cost-effective to pay for a credit card?
If you want solid travel insurance, avoid fees abroad, or accumulate miles that you actually exchange for tickets or upgrades, you might accept paying a subscription.
But if you don’t travel often, or if you’re just looking for a reliable everyday payment method, a well-chosen free card will do just fine.
Paying for a card can be justified if the benefits match actual usage (if not a need).
Conclusion – Which Credit Card to Choose in Switzerland?
One thing is clear: no single card is sufficient to do everything correctly.
To avoid currency fees, debit cards from neo-banks are essential, and some clearly stand out in the analysis: Yuh, Neon, Revolut and Wise. They can be combined easily and for free.
To choose your credit card, it all depends on:
✔ For occasional use without fees, free cards remain the most practical.
✔ For regular expenses, cards with cashback allow you to recover an interesting percentage.
✔ As soon as you pay in foreign currencies across the border, the priority is to avoid hidden fees: cards for paying abroad.
✔ For travel, travel cards can be worth the cost if used properly.
It’s not the card that makes the difference, it’s the combination you choose according to your usage.
Customizable Credit Cards in Switzerland – Appendix
👩🏻🎨 Some cards allow you to add a photo, logo, or personal design. It’s purely aesthetic: no impact on functions, but useful for visually standing out, whether for personal or professional purposes. Customization is sometimes paid, except in premium offers like Revolut Metal.
| Card | Personalization | Cost |
| Cornèrcard Picture Card | – Personal photo – Logo or specific design | CHF 50 |
| TCS MyDesign Mastercard | Personal photo or design | CHF 30 |
| Swisscard Business Cards | – Company logos – Unique designs | Variable |
| Revolut Metal | Choice of colors | Included (CHF 18.99/month) |
| Viseca Business Cards | – Personal photo – Company logos | Variable |
| Cornèrcard Zoom Reload (prepaid) | Specific photo or design | CHF 50 |
Note: These options don’t change anything in terms of services or insurance. You often pay for the image, not for additional features. Reserve this if the visual aspect really matters.
Specialized Credit Cards in Switzerland – Appendix
Some cards are aimed at very specific profiles. They offer advantages in a precise ecosystem: donations, partner portals, travel companies…
They don’t seek to optimize fees or withdrawals, but to reward a well-defined behavior (such as traveling with TUI or making purchases through a given portal).
These cards are interesting only if you exactly match the targeted profile. They can complement a main card, but rarely replace it.
UBS Optimus Foundation Charity – Visa/Mastercard credit card
This unique card donates a portion of the expenses to the UBS Optimus Foundation, supporting charitable projects for children. It doesn’t offer a points program for the user but stands out for its philanthropic commitment. It has an annual fee of 100 CHF.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Samsung Pay
• Google Pay
Insurance:
• Travel accident insurance up to 300,000 CHF
• Cancellation fee insurance up to 5,000 CHF
• Baggage insurance up to 5,000 CHF
The UBS Optimus Foundation Charity is an interesting option to support charitable causes through your daily expenses, while benefiting from the advantages of a standard credit card.
TUI Visa Bonus Card Classic
This card allows you to accumulate Bonus points with each purchase, usable for discounts on TUI travels (flights, hotels, vacation packages). It primarily targets people who travel regularly with TUI. The annual fee is 100 CHF with a free partner card included.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Samsung Pay
• Google Pay
Insurance:
• Travel accident insurance up to 300,000 CHF
• Baggage insurance up to 2,000 CHF
• Legal assistance abroad
The TUI Visa Bonus Card Classic is an interesting option if you frequently travel with TUI and want to accumulate points on all your purchases.
Bonus Card – Visa Classic credit card
The Visa Classic from Bonus Card allows you to accumulate 1 Bonus point per franc spent, with a value of 0.5% if used for vouchers or travel on the Bonus Card portal. A simple card, without superfluous features, with an annual fee of 50 CHF.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Samsung Pay
• Google Pay
• Fitbit Pay
• Garmin Pay
Insurance:
• Travel accident insurance up to 300,000 CHF
• Medical and legal assistance abroad (optional with the TravelSecure package)
Bonus Card Visa Classic is suitable if you’re looking for an affordable card with a simple points program. The benefits remain limited, unless you take the time to optimize exchanges via the Bonus Card portal.
LibertyCard – Visa credit card
The LibertyCard allows you to accumulate 1 Liberty point per franc spent, exchangeable for rewards or discounts with partners such as Coop, Transa, or Hotelcard. Additionally, purchases related to transportation (public transport, gas stations, car rentals, etc.) earn 2 points per franc spent. The annual fee is 144 CHF.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Samsung Pay
• Google Pay
• Swatch Pay
• Garmin Pay
Included insurances:
• Travel cancellation insurance: coverage up to 10,000 CHF per event, including family.
• Baggage insurance: coverage up to 2,000 CHF per claim, with a 200 CHF deductible.
• Legal protection insurance: up to 250,000 CHF in Europe and 50,000 CHF in the rest of the world, per case and per year.
The LibertyCard becomes interesting when you regularly use the partners or take advantage of the included insurances. Otherwise, the annual cost quickly outweighs the benefits.
UBS Visa/Mastercard Classic
The UBS Classic card allows you to accumulate 1 KeyClub point per franc spent, with a value of 0.25% if the points are used for partner vouchers or services. The points are valid for two years and can be used within the UBS ecosystem. The annual fee is 100 CHF, or 50 CHF for those up to 24 years old.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Samsung Pay
• Google Pay
• Garmin Pay
• Fitbit Pay
Included insurances:
• Travel accident insurance
• Emergency assistance abroad
• Extended warranty on certain purchases
Simple but expensive card given the return on points. The interest increases only if you centralize your banking services with UBS or take advantage of KeyClub offers.
TUI Visa Bonus Card Gold
The TUI Gold card allows you to accumulate Bonus points based on the place of purchase: 1 point per franc at certain partners, 2 points per 5 francs at affiliated stores, and 1 point per 5 francs elsewhere. The points are exchangeable for discounts on TUI travel or other rewards. The annual fee is 200 CHF.
Mobile payment compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Samsung Pay
• Google Pay
Insurance:
• Travel accident insurance up to 1,000,000 CHF
• Cancellation fee insurance up to 20,000 CHF
• Baggage insurance up to 10,000 CHF
• Legal assistance abroad
The TUI Visa Bonus Card Gold becomes interesting if you regularly book through TUI. It provides access to a higher reward rate and discounts on travel, but does not offer a confirmed concierge service.
ACS – Visa Classic credit card
The ACS Visa Classic card is offered exclusively to members of the Automobile Club of Switzerland. It allows you to accumulate 1 KeyClub point per franc spent (estimated value: 0.25%), exchangeable for vouchers or offers in the UBS universe. The card is free, but requires ACS membership (98 CHF per year).
Mobile Payment Compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Samsung Pay
• Google Pay
• Garmin Pay
• Fitbit Pay
Insurance:
• Travel and aviation accident insurance if 80% of the trip is paid with the card
The ACS Visa Classic provides access to the KeyClub program and certain ACS-specific benefits (assistance, travel, auto offers), without card fees. But it remains very basic in terms of insurance and features. The interest mainly depends on the overall use of ACS services.
ACS Visa Gold – Visa credit card
The ACS Visa Gold card is exclusively reserved for members of the Automobile Club of Switzerland (ACS). It is free for the first year, then subject to an annual fee of 100 CHF. This card allows participation in the UBS KeyClub program, offering 4 points per 1,000 CHF spent, usable with UBS partners.
Mobile Payment Compatibility:
• Apple Pay
• Samsung Pay
• Google Pay
• Garmin Pay
• Fitbit Pay
Included Insurances:
• Travel and Aviation Accident Insurance (up to 600,000 CHF)
• Repatriation, Rescue, and Search (up to 60,000 CHF)
• Rental Car Deductible (up to 10,000 CHF)
• Best Price Guarantee (up to 2,000 CHF per year)
Travel Benefits:
• Priority Pass Access (airport lounges, 30 EUR per entry)
• Up to 20% discount at Sixt
• 10% discount on parking at Zurich Airport
The ACS Visa Gold clearly targets mobile profiles who travel frequently and want to enjoy a good level of insurance without extra costs on options. But it’s only really worth it if you actively use ACS services and the included benefits.
Should We Really Consider These Specialized Cards?
These cards only deserve an opportunistic look: if you’re already engaged in the universe they target (portal, company, program), they can be beneficial.
Otherwise, it’s better to concentrate your expenses on a more advantageous main card.
