We know choosing the right Mobile / Fixed Line / Internet service in Switzerland can be a bit confusing. So we created this topline Guide, with the kind help of Orange Communications SA, to simplify the basics of it.
We'll update and expand the Guide regularly. Hope it helps!
Mobiles
Overall process for getting a mobile
- a mobile phone
- a swiss SIM card
Getting a phone (for free, usually)
- You can either use a mobile phone you bring with you from abroad (almost all phones work in CH), or get a new phone in CH.
- In most cases, Swiss mobile service providers will offer you an advanced new phone for free (or for a fraction of their normal price) when you commit to using a monthly-subscription plan with that company for minimum 12 months. For example, here is the Orange eShop where you can check all their offers.
Saving tip: If you have decided to keep your mobile phone from abroad, some operators propose a cheaper monthly fee for their price plans if you ask for the SIM card only. Sometimes this option offers as well a shorter term contract (3 months at Orange), therefore if you are staying in Switzerland for a short period of time, this is ideal for you.
Getting a SIM card
You'll need to decide which mobile provider, and which price plan, to go for. The details are below.
Once you decide what you're going for, just go to any phone store, and make it happen ...
You can also get it done online at Orange.ch
Once you decide what you're going for, just go to any phone store, and make it happen ...
You can also get it done online at Orange.ch
Which Mobile Operator to choose?
- Orange (also present in Europe and many other countries)
- Sunrise
- Swisscom
Each operator offers both monthly-subscription and PrePay plans.
It's difficult to recommend 1 specific operator, because all 3 main operators - in general - offer good services at competitive rates. However, this chart shows which
operators glocals members use.
It's difficult to recommend 1 specific operator, because all 3 main operators - in general - offer good services at competitive rates. However, this chart shows which
operators glocals members use.
What to bring with you?
- ID card or passport
- Swiss work permit or letter of confirmation of permit
- Credit card and bank account details
If you have arrived very recently, you may have to prove your address. Bring a bill proving it (electricity, gas…).
You may be asked to pay a deposit or set-up your payments by direct debit.
If you subscribe to Orange, in order to speed up the process at the Orange Center, you can download the direct debit document.
Monthly-subscription or PrePay?
Monthly-subscription (usually for minimum 12 months)
What it is:
You pay a monthly bill based on how much you used your phone, plus a minimum flat fee per month.
You pay a monthly bill based on how much you used your phone, plus a minimum flat fee per month.
- No need to recharge with credits
- Better deals on new phones when you commit to 12-24 months plans
PrePay ('pay as you go')
What it is:
You charge your phone with credits, and can then use it until you run out. When you run out, you need to re-charge credits. There is no contract commitment nor montly flat-fee.
You charge your phone with credits, and can then use it until you run out. When you run out, you need to re-charge credits. There is no contract commitment nor montly flat-fee.
Advantages:
No long term commitment / contract, so ideal if you stay less than one year in Switzerland.
No long term commitment / contract, so ideal if you stay less than one year in Switzerland.
- Need to recharge with credits
- If you use your phone often, monthly-subscription plans will usually come out cheaper.
Monthly-subscription with cost limit
What it is:
You pay a flat fee per month which includes a credit that you can use for calls and SMS. This solution combines the benefits of a subscription with Prepay so that you have control of your costs. Run out of credit before the beginning of the next month? No problem, you can still recharge manually like a standard Prepay.
Advantages:
- Low monthly fee with credit included
- Credit can be topped up at any time
- Attractive mobile phones with favorable terms & conditions
Choosing the right monthly-subscription
The right plan for you will depend on several factors:
- Do you call / use SMS often, or rarely?
- Do you call the same numbers all the time?
- Do you surf the web using your phone?
- Will you use your phone when abroad, and for making international calls?
- Does your operator allow you to change plans, if your needs change?
Orange helps you know which one of their price plans is adapted to your needs (click on the banner):
