In Switzerland, getting a first personal loan in 2026 comes down to three things: a clean application file, repayment capacity, and timing (because of the legal waiting period).
1) Before you apply: do a 5-minute “mini audit”
- Borrow only what you actually need (a “test” first loan that’s too high is easier to reject).
- Build a realistic monthly budget: rent + health insurance + bills + taxes/maintenance + leasing + subscriptions + credit cards.
- Aim for a comfortable monthly payment, not the maximum you could theoretically pay.
Good to know: even if you choose a long term, repayment capacity is assessed under a 36-month rule (anti over-indebtedness protection).
2) Documents to prepare (the “approval-friendly” file)
If you’re employed
- ID + residence permit (if applicable)
- Last 3 payslips (sometimes more, depending on your situation)
- Employment contract / employer confirmation (especially if you’re new)
- Recent bank statements (sometimes requested)
- Proof of fixed costs (rent, health insurance) and existing debts (leasing/loans)
If you’re self-employed
- Latest tax assessments/returns + accounts (depending on your activity)
- Proof of recurring income
- A clear overview of business vs personal expenses
First-loan tip: clarity + consistency (stable income, explained expenses, no grey areas).
3) 2026 rules you should know (they affect your timeline)
- Legal maximum APR: from January 1, 2026, the cap is 10% for cash loans (and 12% for overdraft-type credit, such as cards/overdraft facilities).
- Right of withdrawal: you can withdraw from the contract within 14 days (in writing).
- Practical impact: the money is generally not paid out immediately—plan for the legal waiting period (often around 14 days).
4) The most effective approach for a first application
Option A — Use a broker (often best for a first loan)
- Benefit: optimized file + comparison of solutions without “randomly” submitting many applications.
- This often reduces refusal risk for a first loan.
MultiCredit sits exactly in that role.
Option B — Apply directly with a lender
- Benefit: straightforward process, online simulation + application, decision after a creditworthiness check.
BANK-now operates under the CREDIT-now brand.
5) The most common reasons for refusal (avoid these)
- Expenses too high compared to income (even if you feel you can pay, the legal calculation may block it)
- Too many applications in parallel (multiple checks)
- Late payments / debt enforcement / negative credit history
- Very recent or unstable employment, or incomplete documentation
Homepages you asked for
MultiCredit:
https://multicredit.ch/en/
BANK-now (CREDIT-now):
https://www.credit-now.ch/en
