Switzerland introduces offline card payments for essential goods

The offline function uses existing card standards and ensures that transactions can be processed, temporarily stored and later reconciled with the card issuer even without an active internet connection at the terminal. According to those involved, risk management and security procedures have been adapted to keep fraud risks in offline operation limited.

Sweden's experience as the trigger

The solution came about following a roundtable organised jointly by FONES and SNB in spring 2025. There, a representative of the Swedish central bank had presented Sweden's positive experience with offline card payments, it was said. This presentation helped the initially sceptical banks to drop their reservations and drive the project forward together with the retail sector.

Sweden is regarded as a leader in resilient payment systems and already has a nationwide established offline card function that has been in use for several years. According to those involved, the Swiss solution is based on the experience gained there, but has been adapted to local infrastructure and regulation.

The rollout is being carried out in stages: first, the offline function will be tested on a pilot basis at selected points of sale before being rolled out widely. Both card issuers and terminal manufacturers and retailers are preparing their systems for the extended operation.

Gradual rollout and pilot phase

For consumers, little will change in the payment process in everyday life to begin with. Normally, payment will continue to be processed online. Only when a terminal detects that there is no connection to the merchant or bank server does it automatically switch to offline mode and process the payment locally.

With the industry solution, FONES and SNB are responding to a gap identified in earlier crisis exercises and risk analyses. National economic supply now considers a functioning cashless payment system to be part of the critical infrastructure, comparable to the electricity or telecommunications supply.

Significance for national economic supply

The SNB sees the solution as a contribution to financial stability. A widely accepted offline payment reduces dependence on individual technical components and strengthens public confidence in the resilience of the payment system. The banks involved also emphasise that existing cards can continue to be used without being replaced.

The retail sector expressly welcomes the solution. In the event of prolonged network disruptions, checkouts could continue to be operated, which would benefit both businesses and the population. The first pilot locations are set to follow later this year, with a nationwide rollout planned for the subsequent phase.