Changes to payment transactions in Switzerland

The Swiss interbank payment system is being brought into line with the new ISO 20022 standard. These changes will make payment transactions smoother and easier by introducing a single, automated data-transfer process across the country.

BCV will be here to help and advise you throughout the transition phase.

Highlights

For more information on the changes to payment transactions in Switzerland, visit the Swiss payment standards website

In 2020, the existing red (BV) and orange (BVR) payment slips started being replaced by QR bills – a single type of slip where payment details and the IBAN of the account to be credited are displayed in the form of a QR code, which has been standardized across Switzerland.

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Changes regarding account transfers, payment confirmations, and account debits have already been implemented.

Payment files are now sent using the PAIN rather than DTA format
Our e-billing system has been replaced by eBill
The CAMT format for payment confirmations is steadily replacing all other formats

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Pinpoint your needs

Most people will only have to make one or two small changes to start using the new system, such as using new payment slips and entering information differently when making payments through online banking.

If you or your company transfer payment files, however, the changes will be more far-reaching. You’ll need to update your software and plan ahead to see what other changes you’ll have to make, particularly if you use customized payment software.

If you use an optical scanner, you’ll have to make sure your software works with the new standards.

Timeline

In Switzerland, the changeover will be completed by mid-2021, using a step-by-step process to ensure the transition is as seamless as possible. At BCV, we have begun gradually moving to the new payment system.