Swissquote Bank Account Opening Guide: Swiss HQ vs Hong Kong Branch - Expert Tips 2025
As an experienced financial professional, I often receive inquiries about the Swisscom bank account opening process. Today, let's dive deeper into the account opening options at Credit Suisse, specifically the differences between our Swiss headquarters and our Hong Kong branch. This guide will provide you with a clear roadmap to help you start your investment journey with Credit Suisse.
Ⅰ. Credit Suisse Account Opening Options: Switzerland vs Hong Kong
Credit Suisse offers two main account opening channels, each with its own features and benefits:
1.1 Hong Kong Account (default option)
- Direct account opening through the official website
- Regulated by Hong Kong
- No video authentication, documents need to be sent by mail.
- You will be contacted by UBS Hong Kong after opening an account.
1.2 Swiss account (special access)
- Account opening via a specific link is required
- Regulated by the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA)
- Online video authentication available (passport holders only)
- Non-passport holders can contact Customer Service for an alternative solution.
Ⅱ. Unique advantages of a Swiss account
When you open an account at Swisscombank's Swiss headquarters through special access, you will enjoy the following benefits:
- Accounts are opened directly at Swiss headquarters
- Video authentication for passport holders, handled by Chinese speaking customer service at Swiss Head Office
- MT4/MT5 accounts with official standard spreads (e.g. EUR/USD 1.7) and zero handling fees.
- Flexible leverage options, up to 1:400
- Depending on the amount of funds deposited, you can apply for upgrading the account type.
- Enjoy MT4/MT5 account trading backhaul (e.g. EUR/USD 0.6 onwards, please contact me for details)
Ⅲ. Account Preparation
Before starting the account opening process, please make sure you have the following information ready:
- identity card
- passport (if you don't have a passport, you can contact customer service for an alternative)
- a smartphone (mobile data rather than Wi-Fi is recommended) or a computer with an internet connection
- appropriate browser (default browser for iOS devices, Firefox or Chrome for Android or PC)
- a camera and microphone if using a computer
- temporarily disable call blocking software in order to receive audited calls from Switzerland.
Ⅳ. Detailed Account Opening Procedure
4.1 Enter the account opening interface on the Swiss Bank website through the special channel link (Channel Portal).
4.2 Fill in your personal information, note: red * are mandatory fields. Other fields are optional.
4.3 Provide financial information
4.4 Confirm all filled information
4.5 obtain a username and initial password (be sure to save the username and password)
4.6 Conduct video authentication (Beijing time 16:00-22:00)
4.7 Sign the electronic contract
4.8 After entering the PDF, pull down to the bottom, there is a “Sign Contract” button, click on it to complete the signing.
4.9 upload the required documents (signature, passport, ID card), if there is a signature on the passport, there is no need to upload additional signatures. 9. click on “Send Your Contract” and click on “Send Your Contract”.
4.10 Click “Send your request” and wait for approval (usually within 1-2 business days).
Ⅴ. Account Activation and Deposit
Upon successful account opening, you will receive your personal bank account number. This account has basic banking features and supports a variety of deposit methods:
- International Wire Transfer
- International bank card wire transfer (only accepts money from Mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, India, Malaysia, Thailand and the Philippines).
- Third party payment platform transfer
The first deposit minimum of 1000 U.S. dollars. It is recommended to deposit in Swiss Francs for future travel or educational needs in Switzerland.
Ⅵ. Trading Account Setup
Upon receipt of your funds, a MT4 or MT5 account will be created for you. Account information and password will be sent in two separate emails. Please note that the password setup link is only valid for 48 hours.
Ⅶ. Conclusion
By choosing to open an account with Credit Suisse, especially through our Swiss headquarters, you will enjoy strict regulatory protection, flexible trading conditions and comprehensive banking services. Whether you are an experienced trader or just starting out, Swisscombank offers you a professional and secure financial services platform.
Remember, investing involves risk. Before you begin your trading journey, make sure you fully understand the risks involved and make informed decisions based on your own circumstances.
If you have any questions, please feel free to leave them in the comments section. Let's explore and grow together!
