1. The account holder must be 18 years old and above. Potential account holders must provide a Swiss bank with documentation regarding the origins of the capital as well as personal documentation (passport etc.). Minimum deposit required to open a private banking account in Switzerland on average is CHF 500,000. 2. No. Swiss private banks are required to maintain their unique confidentiality only in Switzerland. Overseas branches are usually registered as a local bank and do not adhere to Swiss banking regulations. 3. In theory Yes. Swiss banks have some of the strongest balance sheets in the world and are regulated by the Swiss Federal Banking Commission - a regulatory watchdog with very tight rules and regulations. 4. Not for time being. In 2001, 77% of the Swiss people rejected joining the European Union in a clear majority vote. Joining is not on Switzerland’s current agenda. 5. Yes. The Swiss franc is one of the more stable currencies available and benefits from Switzerland’s own stability as a neutral country situated in the center of Europe. The currency is also partly backed by Gold.