Zurich rejects cashless push, keeps cash for all city services

Public outcry over cashless venues forced Zurich’s hand. Now, the city must balance tradition with the rise of digital-first payment systems.

, and Administrator

2025 December 4 . 3:44 AM

1 min read

The picture is taken on the street of a city. In the center of the picture there are shops, tents,... — The picture is taken on the street of a city. In the center of the picture there are shops, tents, umbrellas, auto rickshaw, motor bike, people and many other objects. In the background there are buildings. In the foreground there are waste papers on the road.

Zurich rejects cashless push, keeps cash for all city services

Zurich City Council has turned down a proposal to phase out cash payments in municipal services. Instead, officials have reaffirmed their commitment to keeping cash as a payment option across all city-run businesses and institutions. The decision follows public backlash over cashless policies at key venues like the Zurich Art Museum and the Winter Magic event, which refused online payments.

The debate began after visitors criticized these venues for not accepting cash. This led to calls for a review of the city’s approach to payment methods.

The right-leaning SVP party pushed for cash to be accepted at all city-operated venues. Meanwhile, the Alternative List went further, suggesting that every vendor on public property should also take cash. Despite these proposals, the council ultimately rejected any move toward a cashless system.

Now, the Zurich government will examine how to guarantee cash remains a practical and accessible payment method for online payments. The review will focus on ensuring all municipal services continue to support cash transactions.

The council’s decision keeps cash payments in place for now. City authorities will assess ways to strengthen cash acceptance in public services. No further details have been released about which officials will lead this evaluation.