The QR-bill in Switzerland: Everything You Need to Know in 2025
The QR-bill in Switzerland, introduced in 2020, replaced the old red and orange payment slips. It features a Swiss QR Code containing all necessary payment information, simplifying domestic transactions through automation and error reduction. While it adheres to ISO 20022 standards, the Swiss QR Code is limited to Swiss banks and requires additional details for international payments. As of September 30, 2022, its use is mandatory, replacing older billing formats. However, invoices without a QR Code remain valid if they include essential banking details.
What is the QR-bill in Switzerland?
The QR-bill is a standardized invoicing solution that includes a Swiss QR Code with all the information required for electronic payments. It was designed to simplify transactions, minimize human errors, and eliminate manual data entry.
It consists of three main sections:
- The Swiss QR Code: Contains payment details such as IBAN or QR-IBAN, payment reference, amount, currency, and the names of the parties involved.
- The payment section: Human-readable text to allow manual entry if necessary.
- The receipt: A detachable part used as proof of payment.
Benefits of the QR-bill in Switzerland
- National Standardization
Replacing old payment slips ensures uniformity nationwide, simplifying payment management for businesses and individuals. - Process Automation
The Swiss QR Code enables automatic payment reconciliation through structured or QR references, reducing errors and processing times. - Ease of Use
Payments can be made via mobile banking apps, online portals, or by presenting the QR-bill at a bank counter. - Sustainability
Digitizing processes contributes to reduced paper consumption.
Limitations of the QR-bill for International Payments
Despite its advantages, the QR-bill has limitations for cross-border transactions:
- Swiss QR Code Not Compatible Abroad
The Swiss QR Code is designed to work exclusively with Swiss banks. Foreign banks typically cannot scan it, limiting its direct use internationally. - Additional Banking Information Required
To facilitate manual payments from abroad, the following details must be included on the invoice: - IBAN in international format (non-QR IBAN).
- SWIFT/BIC code.
- Name and address of the beneficiary’s bank.
- High Transaction Fees
International payments may incur additional fees for the client or beneficiary, which can deter cross-border transactions.
Standardization and International Compatibility
While the QR-bill adheres to ISO 20022 standards, ensuring uniform data and IT compatibility, the Swiss QR Code is not universally applicable. Compatibility with SEPA facilitates manual international transfers only if all required payment details are included.
Legal Obligations Regarding Swiss QR-bills
Since September 30, 2022, red and orange payment slips are no longer valid. Businesses using them must switch to the QR-bill. However, using the Swiss QR Code is not mandatory for all types of invoices.
Invoices without a QR Code remain legal if they meet minimum requirements, including:
- A valid IBAN.
- The recipient’s name and address.
- A specified amount and currency.
- A payment reference, if applicable.
Solutions for International Payments
- Providing Complete Information: Include an IBAN in international format, SWIFT/BIC, and clear instructions for transfers.
- Using International Structured References: Adopt standards like ISO 11649 to simplify payment reconciliation.
My Swiss Company SA: Your Trusted Corporate Services Provider in Switzerland
My Swiss Company SA offers comprehensive services to help businesses manage their Swiss accounting obligations, including adopting and using QR-bills. With expertise in Swiss standards like ISO 20022, My Swiss Company SA as a Corporate Services Provider in Switzerland supports clients in seamlessly integrating this mandatory billing format into their processes, ensuring smooth payment management and full compliance.
Whether creating QR-bills, automating payment reconciliation, or implementing solutions for international transactions, My Swiss Company SA provides tailored support. Services also include team training and accounting software updates to optimize the transition to this new standard.