Liechtenstein (LI)
Liechtenstein is a tiny constitutional principality nestled between Switzerland and Austria — one of only two doubly landlocked countries in the world — yet it punches far above its 39,000-person weight as one of the wealthiest nations on earth per capita.
Currency & Money
Practical money tips for living in Liechtenstein.
Denominations
Coins: 5, 10, 20, 50 Rappen (Centimes); CHF 1, 2, 5. Notes: CHF 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 1000.
Payment Culture
Liechtenstein uses the Swiss franc (CHF) and is part of the Swiss customs and monetary territory. Cashless and card payment is very common — Maestro, Visa, and Mastercard are widely accepted. Contactless payment (TWINT in Switzerland/Liechtenstein) is standard. Cash is still widely used for small purchases. Liechtenstein is NOT in the Eurozone — euros are not legal tender, though some businesses near the Austrian border may accept them at a disadvantageous rate. TWINT is the dominant mobile payment app.
ATM Tips
ATMs (Bancomats) are available at LGT Bank, Liechtensteinische Landesbank (LLB), and VP Bank branches in Vaduz and Schaan. Foreign cards are accepted with fees of CHF 3–6 per withdrawal. The country is small — there are limited ATMs overall. Cross-border workers can use Austrian or Swiss ATMs without issue.
Exchange Tips
The Swiss franc is one of the world's strongest currencies. Currency exchange at airports has poor rates. Use Wise or Revolut for international transfers. Swiss Post or LLB offer reasonable rates locally. Note: the CHF is consistently strong against EUR and GBP — budget carefully if your income is in another currency.
Pro tip: Best apps for expats
- • Wise — Send money internationally at near-interbank rates
- • Revolut — Multi-currency account, free ATM withdrawals (limits apply)
- • N26 — German IBAN, free account, good for EU residents