IBAN (International Bank Account Number)
The IBAN is an international account number that combines the country, bank and account in a single code. In Switzerland, the IBAN consists of 21 characters: the country code CH, a 2-digit check digit and a 17-digit account identification.
The IBAN has replaced the former national account numbers and is mandatory for all transfers in the SEPA area and in Switzerland. In e-commerce, the IBAN is used for payment methods such as direct debit (SEPA Direct Debit), bank transfer and QR-bill.
For Comerciantes, the IBAN is the target account for payouts from the payment provider. Important: For QR-bills with automatic payment reconciliation, a special QR-IBAN is required, which can be requested from your house bank.
IBAN examples
A Swiss IBAN looks like this: CH93 0076 2011 6238 5295 7. CH = Switzerland, 93 = check digit, the rest identifies the bank and account.
A Comerciante deposits their IBAN with their PSP so that transaction proceeds can be paid out to their business account.
To send QR bills with a reference number, the Comerciante requires a QR-IBAN — a special variant of the standard IBAN.
IBAN FAQ
What is an IBAN?
The IBAN (International Bank Account Number) is a standardised bank account number that uniquely identifies bank accounts worldwide. In Switzerland, it consists of 21 characters and begins with CH.
Where can I find my IBAN?
You can find your IBAN in your e-banking, on your bank statement, on the back of your bank card, or in your banking app.
What is the difference between an IBAN and a QR-IBAN?
The QR-IBAN is a special variant of the IBAN for QR-bills with a QR reference. It is required for automatic payment reconciliation and must be requested from your house bank.
Is the IBAN mandatory in Switzerland?
Yes, since the old payment slips were replaced by the QR-bill, the IBAN is mandatory for all transfers in Switzerland and the SEPA area.
