Hi all,

I am moving to the Montreux/Vevey area. I will need a bank account.

Which bank should I join?

Can I open the account before I get my work permit?

thank you for any help

Catrina

Everyone will have their own opinion but I like Postfinance. They have been friendly, efficient, and generally provided a very good level of service.

They also have a good range of services, although perhaps not as comprehensive as UBS/Credit Suisse etc.

They can provide all documentation in english if you would find that helpful!

I opened the bank account without a residence/work permit although I did have a signed employment contract to show them.

I wanted my bank opened ASAP when I moved, and opened a postfinance with only my work contract and passport.
It took 5 minutes. Although I believe if you open a USB you get coffee, I don't really fancy spending a day opening a bank account.
It's not got a credit card, but I try to not use them anyway.
All ATMs and card payment things automatically go to English for me.
OK, it's been two weeks, but I've been fine with it.

thanks for these very useful responses so far.

As you are in Vaud you could open an account with the Cantonal BCV.
I was with UBS until recently and moved over to them and I am very happy.