Investment8 min read
Complete guide to buying physical gold
Coins, bars, storage: everything you need to know before buying.
At a glanceBuying physical gold in Switzerland benefits from world-class standards of security, privacy, and refining integrity. Knowing how to choose between cantonal banks and specialized dealers, understanding Swiss Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA) cash limits, and selecting appropriate bar weights are essential steps for every investor.
Where to Buy Gold in Switzerland
- Swiss Banks (UBS, Cantonal Banks, Raiffeisen): Utmost institutional trust, but typically wider spreads (3–6%) and frequent requirements for active banking relationships.
- Specialized Bullion Dealers (Philoro, BullionVault): Tighter spreads (1–3% over spot), immediate stock availability, and direct high-security bonded storage options.
Cash Transaction Limits Under Swiss AMLA (GwG / LBA)
- Cash Purchases Under CHF 15,000: Swiss law permits anonymous over-the-counter cash purchases of precious metals up to CHF 15,000 per transaction without identity registration.
- Purchases Over CHF 15,000: Dealers are legally mandated to verify and log the buyer's identity via valid passport or Swiss ID.
Recommended Denominations by Budget
| Investment Budget | Recommended Format | Average Premium Over Spot |
|---|---|---|
| CHF 500 – 3,000 | 20 CHF Gold Vreneli (5.80 g fine gold) | 4% – 8% |
| CHF 3,000 – 15,000 | 1 oz coins or 50g cast bars | 2.5% – 4% |
| CHF 15,000 – 80,000 | 100g, 250g, or 500g LBMA bars | 1.5% – 2.5% |
| CHF 80,000 and Above | 1 Kilogram cast bars (Argor, PAMP, Metalor) | 0.8% – 1.5% |
Frequently Asked Questions: Buying Gold in Switzerland
Can foreign non-residents buy gold in Switzerland?
Yes. Anyone over 18 can legally buy gold in Switzerland, subject to standard customs declaration limits upon crossing borders.
Buy Investment Gold in Switzerland (VAT-Exempt)
Buy and store physical gold in secure Zurich or Geneva vaults at direct live LBMA spot rates.
Exonéré de TVA (LTVA 18)•Stockage sécurisé Zürich/Genève•Cours spot LBMA direct