15484 posts
Welcome back Travelplannr,
I don’t know that specific card, you can best ask Visa directly to be sure. Debit cards with a Maestro logo work fine, that’s what I use myself. I don’t think the costs of an ATM withdrawal depend on the Swiss bank, but on your own bank. So it’s Visa who sets the rates for that, and they should be able to explain about exact amounts/percentages.
72625 posts
Thank you for responding. You made the point that raised my question. I read about the Maestro logo. Our card does not have that. One article stated that the Maestro label was needed. But I also read that simply Visa and MasterCard debit cards are widely accepted. We know what our bank would charge to use the debit card/Visa, but we read that the bank that owned the ATM machine you use charges a percentage, yet the article goes on to say that Switzerland is an exception and does not charge a fee. I can copy the link where I found that information. I wasn’t sure about copying that link here.
Sometimes the more I read the less I know:)
We are getting close to our trip. I hope to have time to post some final questions before we leave. Right now in caregiver mode! Thank you for your time and interest in helping us make our Switzerland trip the best that it can be!
15484 posts
Yes, I understand these things can be confusing! And unfortunately I don’t have all the answers. Visa should have all the answers though. I can’t imagine a debit card from a big brand like that would not work in Switzerland, but only they can tell for sure, and also about the fees. The only thing I am sure can cause an issue is a (US) credit card without PIN technology. Many shops don’t accept that because of security risks. Feel free to post the link here if you think it’s helpful for others.
7567 posts
Hi travlplanner-
My Visa debit card from Chase Bank works fine in Switzerland. So does one from Citizens Bank ( a New England regional bank).
On the next issue- rates, fees, exchange rates….too complex to deal with here.
At least, you can be aured that a VISA debit card will work…unless they don’t know that your bank exists, which is unlikely. 😉 As Arno pointed out….VISA is the key point.
Slowpoke
72625 posts
Thank you for sharing and getting it all straightened out for me!