More and more people in Switzerland are looking for a loan without a credit check. But what exactly does this mean - and does it even exist here? In this article, we explain exactly what the term means, how realistic such a thing is in Switzerland and where the pitfalls can lie.
What is meant by “credit without a credit check”?”
When we talk about a „loan without a credit check“, many people mean a loan where there is no check by the ZEK, Schufa or your financial situation in general. In practice, this means that you can borrow money without your previous solvency or debts being checked.
However, this is not so easy in Switzerland. Most reputable lenders always carry out a credit check, as they are legally obliged to do so - to protect you and yourself.
Is credit without a credit check really available in Switzerland?
In short: no, not in the classic sense.
In Switzerland, every legal credit provider checks the applicant's creditworthiness - for example via ZEK queries. This is part of the Consumer Credit Act (KKG), which protects consumers from over-indebtedness.
Those who promise that you can get a loan without a check are often dubious (with high fees or advance fraud) or talk about pawn loans or personal loans without a bank.
What alternatives are there
If your credit rating is not ideal, you still have a number of options in Switzerland:
🧾 Personal loan with flexible checking
Some lenders are more flexible in their assessments (e.g. Cembra, Bank-now), especially if you have a stable job or can offer collateral.
👫 Private to private - credit platforms
There are platforms such as Lend.ch or Cashare where private individuals lend money to others. The checks may be less strict, but they are still in place.
💰 Pawn credit
Here you give something as collateral (e.g. a watch, jewellery) and receive a loan in return - without a credit check. However, this only makes sense for small amounts.
🌐 Crowdfunding or crowdlending
This can be an idea, especially for larger projects (e.g. self-employment). A check is still carried out, but it is not as strict as with the banks.
How to recognise dubious providers
Be careful when:
- Advance costs are required
- No imprint or no contact details are available
- The website is too good to be true („Instant money without any verification!“)
- Pressure is exerted on you
Tip: Always check whether the provider has a licence (e.g. from FINMA or in the register of intermediaries).
Credit without a credit check in Switzerland - realistic goal or utopia?
It is not legal to get a loan without a credit check in Switzerland. But with more flexible alternatives such as personal loan platforms or pawn loans, you can still get money - without your bad credit rating ruining everything.
Always bear in mind: if it sounds too good, it usually is too good. Reputable providers check, but they explain openly how the process works.
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