Looking to open a bank account in a European jurisdiction without having to travel? We can help. Non-residents of Liechtenstein can open and manage a personal account in Liechtenstein remotely.
To get started, seek our professional advice to help choose the right bank for setting up a suitable bank account. Then, you can send your papers via email and appoint an authorized legal agent to submit the notarized copies of the documents and sign them on your behalf. We are here to help you with this process! You can, of course, make an in-person visit to the bank, but it is not necessary.
E-banking has become an integral part of traditional banking in Liechtenstein. Here is how it works:
- Bankers accept the scanned copies of application documents online.
- Applicants are interviewed via video conferencing.
- Customers can make electronic payments, manage their assets through internet banking, and utilize customer web support.
- With a mobile application, you can enjoy round-the-clock access to your bank account from wherever you have access to the internet.
You will find that it is relatively easy to open a bank account in Liechtenstein if you are familiar with and follow all the requirements and recommendations. However, please note that online applications are typically not accepted from individuals for security reasons, to protect your private data and bank confidentiality. That is why you or your authorized agent will need to visit the bank personally.
Our experts specializing in opening customers’ accounts are ready to consult you for free and provide services (for a fee starting from 2999 EUR) to help you successfully choose the bank, fill in the application, compile the required set of documents, issue the POA if needed, and get the application appropriately signed and submitted. Your account will be available within three weeks of application. You can send us your questions to info@qwealthreport.com.
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How can a non-resident benefit from opening a personal account in Liechtenstein?
Liechtenstein remains a highly regarded jurisdiction for banking services, known for its strong tradition of client confidentiality and stability. While historic banking laws emphasized strict privacy, the Principality has since aligned itself with international standards for transparency and regulatory cooperation, particularly with the European Union through the European Economic Area (EEA) and various information exchange agreements.
Today, Liechtenstein complies with the Common Reporting Standard (CRS) and other international frameworks for the automatic exchange of financial account information. This means certain data may be shared with tax authorities in participating countries, including those within the EU, to ensure compliance and prevent misuse of financial systems.
That said, data protection in Liechtenstein remains exceptionally robust. Financial institutions are still subject to some of the most stringent privacy and security regulations in Europe. Information is exchanged only under specific legal frameworks, and client confidentiality is maintained unless disclosure is required by law.
The country has a zero-tolerance policy for illicit financial activity. Its institutions maintain high standards for anti-money laundering (AML) compliance and are committed to serving clients engaged in legal and transparent business operations.
In short, while Liechtenstein has adapted to modern regulatory expectations, it continues to offer a secure, discreet, and highly professional banking environment for legitimate international clients.
With a personal account in Liechtenstein, you get top-class service and access to a wide range of banking and financial services. Your individual bank consultant will offer you many tools to increase your income and advise you on all matters of interest.
As a compelling example, we recommend LGT Bank – the largest bank in the jurisdiction. It is owned and managed by the Princely House of Liechtenstein and offers a wide variety of services in private banking and asset management, acting as a universal bank.
We can recommend and help you contact other reputable banks, too, when we know your needs in opening a personal account in Liechtenstein. Please contact us at info@qwealthreport.com for more information.
What restrictions should be considered when you open a personal account in Liechtenstein?
To mitigate the risks of assisting terrorists and criminal offenders, banks in Liechtenstein are selective in their client choices. There are several restrictions related to the individual’s country of origin and the type of business activity (source of income).
Limitations by country
Liechtenstein banks maintain strict onboarding criteria for personal accounts. These include:
- U.S. persons (residents or taxpayers under FATCA) — limited onboarding due to enhanced reporting obligations
- Residents of high-risk jurisdictions — countries with weak AML/CTF frameworks are excluded. These frequently include Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran, Libya, the Central African Republic, the Republic of the Congo, and North Korea.
Note: This list of restricted countries is regularly reviewed. Clients should verify current policies with experts at info@qwealthreport.com.m.
The most desirable customers of Liechtenstein bankers are applicants from certain countries and regions that banks consider very attractive for various reasons. They particularly welcome clients from Europe, China, Turkey, and some South American countries. Contact us to learn more.
Limitations by type of activity
Those engaged in the following sectors typically cannot open a personal account:
- Financial services or crypto trading — due to licensing under TVTG, MiCa & stringent AML/KYC rules
- Online marketing, remote gambling operations (betting, casinos)
- Legal arms trading
- High-volume trade in art or precious metals
By contrast, earnings from commodity trading, tech-sector roles, or holding structures are generally acceptable.
Terms of cooperation
To be eligible, you must fit some further requirements, which may be adjusted in certain situations:
- Minimum annual turnover: USD 3–5 million from clean, documented sources
- Initial deposit or securities collateral: USD 300,000+ (or equivalent) within 6 months of contract signature.
- Account activity monitoring:
- If > 250 transactions/year, banks may request higher collateral.
- Minimum balance typically must remain above CHF 5,000 (or equivalent)
Non-resident personal accounts in Liechtenstein for foreigners
When you open a personal account in Liechtenstein, you get access to multi-currency bank transactions, fixed deposits, and SWIFT money transfers – all within the framework of one agreement.
Account currencies
It is possible to conduct banking transactions in the following currencies:
- The Swiss franc (CHF) is the official currency of the Principality
- US dollars (USD)
- euro (EUR)
- pounds sterling (GBP)
- other currencies upon the client’s request
Types of bank accounts in Liechtenstein
- Current accounts are typically non-interest-bearing deposit accounts designed for day-to-day banking transactions conducted online or through other secure data transfer channels.
- Trading accounts are used to execute trade transactions involving the buying and selling of financial instruments, such as stocks, bonds, futures, and options. Trading accounts can hold both cash and securities. Holders are given secure access to securities. Bankers can provide advice on investment and trading matters.
- Metal accounts. For operations involving precious metals, clients gain access to channels for the sale and purchase of such assets. The bank provides services not only for the storage of such valuables but also ensures their delivery to an alternative storage location.
- An investment account enables clients to manage their investments professionally.
Bank cards
Banks in Liechtenstein do not issue payment cards themselves. However, they do issue cards to their customers through cooperation with Swiss providers. It is possible to order the following cards:
- Credit cards (VISA, Mastercard)
- Debit cards (Swiss Travel Cash).
Approval also typically depends on maintaining a minimum balance in the main Liechtenstein account, as agreed with the bank .
Credit facilities are offered only in collateralized form: the client must lodge 110% of the requested credit limit in a separate blocked account at the bank (this includes a 10% processing margin).
Access to the deposit is restricted for the duration of the card’s use; the bank pays Swiss provider invoices from the blocked account on a monthly basis.
The Swiss Travel Cash debit bank card can be obtained in Liechtenstein for use in ATMs, and it can also be used to pay for goods or services wherever Mastercard is accepted.
The cards are issued anonymously, bearing no personal information besides the card number, consistent with the privacy policies of Liechtenstein bank partners.
Standard structures include:
Maximum of two cards per client
Maximum card limit: CHF/EUR/USD 10,000
Annual turnover cap: CHF/EUR/USD 100,000
Typical card fees:
- Processing fee – CHF 300
- Guarantee Issuing fee – CHF 500
- Annual fee – CHF 200
- ATM transaction fee – CHF/EUR/USD 5
- Direct deposit fee -1.5%
- Cashless payment fee – CHF/EUR/USD 1
Internet banking
Nearly all banks now offer remote account management via the internet or mobile applications. This option is typically included in the service fee (approximately 500 CHF). This allows you to access your funds with ease.
Banks’ tariffs
Here’s a general sense of what to expect when partnering with a private bank in this highly respected jurisdiction.
- Account opening: From CHF 500
- Account closure: Up to CHF 1,000, depending on the scope of services used
- Ongoing account management: Typically CHF 500 per year, though this may be included in a broader service package
Many banks offer tailored solutions that bundle digital access and client service features, ensuring the smooth management of your assets across borders.
Payments & Transfers
- Standard transactions (incoming or outgoing): Approximately 0.125% of the amount
- Minimum: CHF 125 | Maximum: CHF 1,250
- Immediate or urgent payments: Approximately 0.25%
- Minimum: CHF 250 | Maximum: CHF 2,500
- Cancellation or recall: From CHF 50
Fees may vary depending on the nature, speed, and destination of the transaction.
Wealth & Asset Management
- Custody of securities:
- Swiss assets: From 2.5% annually
- International assets: From 3.5% annually
- Capital movements involving intangible assets: May incur a 0.125% service charge
- Precious metals:
- Secure storage: From 5% annually
- Purchase/sale transactions: From 1% per trade
Additional Services
Other services—such as secure document storage, custom reporting, or premium client communications—are available on request. These may be billed separately or incorporated into a personalized banking package, depending on your level of service.
Fees for stock exchange transactions, management of clients’ securities, and other assets differ for each bank.
Retail clients can also use other services provided by banking institutions, such as mail storage, ordering bank statements, etc.
Please note: All prices mentioned in this article are subject to possible revision by the banks in Liechtenstein. Therefore, when deciding to open a personal account in Liechtenstein, please refer to our experts at info@qwealthreport.com for an up-to-date schedule of rates and fees.
How to open a personal account in Liechtenstein for a foreigner?
If you are a foreigner wishing to open a personal account in Liechtenstein with ease, contact us at Q Wealth Report. Our experts will advise you on the requirements of a particular bank suited to you and provide you with a list of necessary forms and papers. You will only need to hand over scans of the collected documents and send certified copies by post directly to the bank. The consultant will review your application before submission and assist you in preparing for the online interview with the bank, a crucial part of the bank’s decision-making process.
Procedure for opening a personal account in Liechtenstein:
1. Please get in touch with us for the bank account opening service in this jurisdiction by writing to info@qwealthreport.com.
2. Pay for our services. We accept payment in various forms, including bank transfer, Western Union, payment card, PayPal, and cryptocurrency. The cost of our services starts at 2999 EUR.
3. Prepare a package of documents. If you do not plan to open a personal account in Liechtenstein remotely, please ensure that you certify the documents before visiting the bank.
Documents required to open a personal account with a bank in Liechtenstein
You will need to fill out the forms provided by the bank. We will check and scan them, then send them directly to the bank. After receiving a preliminary confirmation from the bank, we will consult you about sending the package of documents by mail.
Set of documents:
- A copy of a foreign passport certified by an apostille. If you visit in person, submit the originals to the bank, and they will be copied on-site. If you act remotely, submit notarized copies to the bank.
- Proof of address (the original of the utility bill received by mail, or a statement from your bank account, may also serve as such a document).
- Statement of the origin of your funds.
Note: The bank may also request other documents. All submitted documents must be translated into English and certified.
How long will it take you to open a personal account in Liechtenstein?
Banks in Liechtenstein typically make a decision and inform non-resident applicants about opening an account within three weeks of receiving the application.
Final Thoughts
A bank in Liechtenstein offers you confidentiality, asset protection, and a bank account in prestigious institutions within a stable and respected jurisdiction that is part of the European Economic Area. By using our service, you can open an account without having to travel anywhere. If you’re interested in our service to help you apply remotely seamlessly, please don’t hesitate to contact us today at info@qwealthreport.com.
