Can you pay in euros in Switzerland without fees using a French bank card?

Most Visa or Mastercard cards issued by French banks allow you to pay in Switzerland. However, except for a few cases, banks generally charge fees — and sometimes hefty ones — for payments made abroad. So, how can you pay in Switzerland with your French bank card? Can you really avoid fees? If not, how can you reduce them? Let’s take a closer look.

The first way to save is to avoid cash withdrawals and pay directly by card whenever possible. You can also consider using a multi-currency card, which helps you save on exchange fees. The Wise card, for instance, offers two free withdrawals per month up to €200 and uses the mid-market exchange rate (without hidden markups) for conversions.

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Can you use euros in Switzerland?

Many shops and restaurants in Switzerland — especially in airports, train stations, and tourist areas — accept euros. However, if you pay in euros, you’ll usually receive your change in Swiss francs (CHF).

Be cautious about the exchange rate used by these establishments. Most apply a marked-up rate, so you end up paying more. To avoid these extra costs, it’s better to pay in Swiss francs whenever possible.

Can you pay in Swiss francs with a euro account in Switzerland?

Yes — as long as you have an international payment card. Most Visa and Mastercard cards issued in France work internationally, but it’s best to confirm this with your bank before you travel.

It’s also wise to inform your bank of your trip to avoid your card being blocked for suspected fraud.

Finally, check your withdrawal and spending limits before leaving. If they’re too low, request a temporary increase — but note that some banks may charge for this service.

Is it better to pay in Switzerland with a Visa or a Mastercard?

It depends on your banking package and the specific fees your bank applies. Regardless of which card you use, most foreign currency transactions are subject to extra charges unless you have an international option.

Paying in Swiss francs with a debit card: how much does it cost?

Foreign transactions can get expensive if you don’t choose the right payment method.

Most traditional banks don’t use the mid-market exchange rate when converting currencies. Instead, they add a margin to the rate — a hidden way of increasing costs.

In addition, other commissions can add up:

• Fixed/variable fees: The fee structure varies by bank. Check your bank’s pricing guide for details.
• ATM withdrawal fees: Swiss banks may charge a fee when you withdraw money from their ATMs — sometimes without it appearing on your French statement (so-called hidden fees).
• DCC (Dynamic Currency Conversion): If you choose to pay in euros instead of Swiss francs, you’ll usually be charged a poor conversion rate.

How to reduce fees when paying by card in Switzerland?

Avoid withdrawing Swiss francs from ATMs

Most banks charge both fixed and percentage-based fees for ATM withdrawals abroad. If your bank follows this structure, check how these fees are calculated.

If your bank applies the same charges for both payments and withdrawals, remember that Swiss ATMs may also apply their own usage fees.

If you must use an ATM, it’s best to withdraw enough money for your stay to avoid paying several separate withdrawal fees.

Prefer card payments

Card payments are widely accepted in Switzerland — especially in shops, restaurants, and shopping centers.

With the Wise multi-currency card, you only pay small conversion fees (starting from 0.47%). The Wise account lets you hold 40+ currencies — including EUR and CHF — and convert them instantly at the mid-market rate.

The Wise card also lets you withdraw up to €200 (or the CHF equivalent) per month for free, for up to two withdrawals.

International banking packages and cross-border options

Some banks offer specific packages for cross-border workers, allowing them to withdraw Swiss francs without fees on either side of the border.

These offers can be useful but aren’t available to everyone. You might need to prove your employment status to qualify. Check with your bank to see if you’re eligible.

The Wise card: an economical and practical option for paying in Switzerland

The Wise card is ideal for paying and withdrawing cash in Switzerland. With this card, you benefit from the mid-market exchange rate on all transactions. It’s connected to a multi-currency account that lets you manage and convert 40+ different currencies.

Unlike most traditional banks, Wise charges only one transparent fee when you convert money, depending on the currency pair — with no hidden markups.

You can withdraw up to €200 (or equivalent) for free per month (two withdrawals). Beyond that, a small fee of 1.75% + €0.50 applies per withdrawal.

The Wise debit card is a smart, low-cost way to pay and withdraw cash in Switzerland and beyond — a good option for cross-border workers, travelers, and expats living in France.

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This article is a translation of the original article published in French and was translated within 365 days of publication. While the content has been translated for accessibility, the data and sources referenced have not been updated since the original publication date.