Living and Trading in CHF: FX Guide to Liechtenstein
Resources for Expats, Travelers, and Entrepreneurs Navigating Life and Trade in Liechtenstein with the Swiss franc
What's in this Liechtenstein currency guide?
What currency is used in Liechtenstein?
The official currency of Liechtenstein (country code: LI) is the Swiss franc, with symbol Fr. and currency code CHF.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What currency should I use in Liechtenstein?
The domestic currency in Liechtenstein is the Swiss franc.
What is the Swiss franc currency code and symbol?
The three letter currency code for the Swiss franc is CHF — symbol is Fr..
What doe the Swiss franc look like?
Here is an example Swiss franc banknote:
Which countries use the Swiss franc?
It is the domestic currency in Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
Is the Swiss franc a closed currency?
No, the Swiss franc is freely available and convertible. See guide: What is a closed currency?
What are equivalent amounts of USD and CHF?
Here are some popular conversion amounts for USD to CHF (US dollar to Swiss franc)*.
| USD | CHF |
|---|---|
| $ 1,222 | Fr. 1,000 |
| $ 6,109 | Fr. 5,000 |
| $ 24,436 | Fr. 20,000 |
| $ 122,180 | Fr. 100,000 |
More amounts
*Converted at the current USDCHF interbank exchange rate. Calculate actual payout amounts for Send Money and Travel Money exchange rates.
Things to know about the Swiss franc
The Swiss franc is the official currency of Switzerland and Liechtenstein. It is represented by the symbol "CHF" and is abbreviated as SFR.
Contributing to roughly 5% of the foreign exchange market daily turnover, the Swiss franc is the world’s seventh most traded currency.
The Swiss franc is traditionally considered Europe’s safe haven currency due to factors including Switzerland’s traditional position as a politically neutral country, its reputation for stability, impressive financial system, historically low inflation and its ability to consistently run a trade surplus. For this reason, the franc is likely to increase in value during periods of economic uncertainty or when global geopolitical risk is elevated, or during bouts of high market volatility.
To prevent unwanted currency appreciation, between September 2011 and January 2015 the franc’s value was pegged to the euro at a rate of Fr. 1.2. When Switzerland’s central bank unexpectedly abandoned the peg in 2015 it caused significant market turmoil.
Since 1995, against the world’s reserve currency, the US dollar, the Swiss franc’s lowest valuation came in October 2000 when CHF/USD traded at just 0.5465. Its post-1995 high came in August 2011 at 1.4152.
The Swiss franc banknotes and coins
The physical Swiss franc currency consists of coins and banknotes. The coins come in denominations of 5 rappen (rapp), 10 rappen (rapp), 20 rappen (rapp), and 50 rappen (rapp). The banknotes come in denominations of 10 francs (CHF), 20 francs (CHF), 50 francs (CHF), 100 francs (CHF), 200 francs (CHF), and 1,000 francs (CHF).
The banknotes feature images of Swiss cultural and historical figures, such as scientist Albert Einstein and composer Arthur Honegger. The design of the currency is constantly being updated, so the physical appearance of the coins and banknotes may vary slightly over time.
Travel money for Liechtenstein
Using Wise for Swiss franc travel money is a smart choice for savvy travelers. With its competitive exchange rates and low fees, Wise allows you to convert and manage multiple currencies effortlessly.
Be careful when using your own bank's Debit/Credit Card, as your bank may also charge an extra 3% as an “Overseas Transaction Charge” plus “Overseas ATM” fees for withdrawing cash on top of the standard Visa/Mastercard 2.5% from market mid-rate.
For card purchases, if you are offered a choice of currencies always select to Pay in Swiss franc otherwise you will typically get much worst dynamic currency conversion (DCC) exchange rates.
If you really want Swiss franc cash before departure, you can save money by ordering online. You generally get better rates and can pick up the CHF cash locally or even on travel day at the airport.
Clocking in at just 62 square miles, Liechtenstein is one of the smallest countries in Europe. It’s bordered by Switzerland to the west and south and Austria to the east and north. From its capital city Vaduz to the lovely mountain villages, here are the best things to do and see in Liechtenstein.
1. Vaduz Castle
Situated atop a hill in Vaduz and visible from almost anywhere in the country, Vaduz Castle is the home of the Prince of Liechtenstein and his family. Although the castle is not open to the public, it’s still worth visiting for its incredible views of the city and the Rhine Valley.
2. Prince’s Way
The Prince’s Way is a scenic route that winds through the countryside from Vaduz to Balzers. Along the way, you’ll pass by the beautiful St. Florin’s Cathedral, the Liechtenstein Center, and the Gutenberg Castle ruins.
3. Gutenberg Castle
Gutenberg Castle is a 13th-century castle located in Balzers. Although it’s in ruins, the castle offers incredible views of the Rhine Valley and the Alps.
4. Malbun
Malbun is a village located in the Alps and is a popular winter destination for skiing and snowboarding. In the summer, the village is a great place for hiking, mountain biking, and golf.
5. Triesenberg
Triesenberg is a municipality in Liechtenstein and is known for its apple orchards and stunning views of the Alps.
6. Vaduz Cathedral
Vaduz Cathedral is the main church of the Diocese of Vaduz and is located in the city center of Vaduz. The Cathedral is known for its beautiful Baroque architecture and is worth a visit.
7. Skiing in Malbun
Malbun is a popular winter destination for skiing and snowboarding. The area offers great slopes for all levels and is a great place to enjoy the snow. In the summer, Malbun is also a great place for hiking and mountain biking. There are several trails in the area and it’s a great way to experience the stunning scenery.
Top Travel tips for Liechtenstein
Do your research before you travel to Liechtenstein. There is a lot of information available online, in guidebooks, and through travel agencies.
When packing for your trip, remember to pack comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
Be aware of your surroundings and always carry a map with you.
Public transportation is the best way to get around Liechtenstein. The country has an excellent bus and train system that can get you to most places.
USD/CHF Market Data
The below interactive chart displays the USD/CHF change and UP📈 DOWN📉 trends over the past 1 Year.
Send Money to Liechtenstein - Best Rates
To get a good (and fair) exchange rate when sending money to Liechtenstein you need to find and compare exchange rates for International Money Transfers (IMTs).
The available FX rates for sending money abroad can be very different to the mid-market (wholesale) rate which you see reported online and in the News.
You should especially compare your own bank's exchange rates to those available from Money Transfer specialists to see how much you can save - we make that calculation easy in the below table.
Get a better deal for foreign transfers to Liechtenstein
When sending money to Liechtenstein it’s important to compare your bank’s rates & fees with those we have negotiated with our partner money transfer providers. To get a better deal you should follow these 4 simple steps :
- Open an account with a BER reviewed FX provider (id docs may be required)
- You specify the local or Swiss franc amount you want to transfer
- Make a local currency domestic transfer for the requested amount to the provider's bank account in your country
- Once your funds are received by the provider the converted CHF amount will be transfered to the recipient account you specify in Liechtenstein.
Use the above calculator to compare the exchange rates of FX specialist providers rates versus your bank's standard rates you can hopefully save around 5% and maybe more - end result is more Swiss franc deposited into the recipient bank account and less margins and fees kept by the banks!
Managing money while living and working in Liechtenstein
Managing your money effectively while living and working abroad can be challenging, but there are several steps you can take to ensure that your finances are in order.
Understand Swiss franc currency exchange rates: Exchange rates can have a big impact on your finances, so it is important to keep an eye on the CHF exchange rate and consider using a money transfer specialist or a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees to get the best exchange rate.
Use a local Swiss franc bank account: A local CHF bank account can make it easier for you to manage your finances and pay bills while you are in Liechtenstein. It may also be more convenient to use a local CHF bank account to make purchases and withdraw cash.
Research local laws and regulations: It is important to understand the local laws and regulations that apply to financial transactions in Liechtenstein. This can help you avoid legal issues and ensure that you are complying with local requirements.
Consider the tax implications: It is important to understand the tax implications of living or doing business in Liechtenstein. This can help you plan your finances and ensure that you are paying the correct amount of tax.
Seek financial advice: If you are unsure of how to manage your finances in Liechtenstein, it is a good idea to seek the advice of a financial professional who is familiar with the local financial system. This can help you make informed decisions and avoid financial pitfalls.
We have put together some key points to help managing your money effectively, you can reduce financial stress and enjoy your experience living or doing business in Liechtenstein.
How is the cost of living in Liechtenstein?
The cost of living in Liechtenstein is relatively high. Expenses such as food, housing, transportation, and healthcare tend to be more expensive than in other countries. However, the high cost of living is offset by the country's high wages and low taxes.
How is the expat life in Liechtenstein?
Expat life in Liechtenstein is very comfortable and convenient. All the necessary amenities and infrastructure are available, including reliable public transportation, international schools, and hospitals. In addition, Liechtenstein is a very safe country with a low crime rate.
Any laws in Liechtenstein that foreigners should be aware of?
There are no specific laws in Liechtenstein that foreigners should be aware of. However, all visitors should be aware of the general laws and regulations of the country, such as those pertaining to customs, immigration, and safety.
What is doing business like in Liechtenstein?
Business in Liechtenstein is conducted in a professional and efficient manner. There is a strong focus on quality and customer service. Businesses are typically well-organized and run smoothly. Liechtenstein is a small country with a small population, so businesses often have a close-knit and family-like feel. There is a great deal of trust and cooperation among businesses in Liechtenstein.
How is the economy in Liechtenstein?
The economy in Liechtenstein is doing well. The country has a very low unemployment rate and a high level of GDP per capita.