What Currency Is SFr?

SFr refers to the Swiss franc, also known as CHF—the official currency of Switzerland and Liechtenstein.

What Currency Is SFr? (UK Guide to the Swiss Franc)

If you've seen prices or banking terms listed as "SFr", you’re dealing with the Swiss franc—Switzerland’s official currency. This symbol is sometimes used alongside the more common ISO code CHF, especially in older banking, tourism, or European documents. This guide explains what SFr means, where it's used, and what UK travellers should know when dealing with Swiss currency.

What Does SFr Stand For?

SFr stands for "Swiss Franc" and is an alternative abbreviation for the currency of Switzerland.

  • Currency name: Swiss franc

  • Currency symbol: SFr, Fr., or CHF

  • ISO code: CHF

  • Subunit: 1 franc = 100 centimes (French), rappen (German), centesimi (Italian)

The franc is issued and regulated by the Swiss National Bank (SNB).

Where Is the Swiss Franc (SFr/CHF) Used?

  • Switzerland – nationwide and across all four language regions

  • Liechtenstein – uses the Swiss franc exclusively

  • Also accepted in some areas near the Swiss border (e.g. parts of northern Italy and eastern France)

Despite being in Europe, Switzerland is not in the Eurozone, and does not use the euro.

Are SFr and CHF the Same?

Yes.

  • CHF is the international currency code (used in banking, finance, and trading)

  • SFr or Fr. is a legacy or local abbreviation, often still used in Switzerland on price tags or bills

  • Both refer to the same currency and value

Currency Use in Practice

  • Prices in Switzerland are always listed in francs (CHF or SFr)

  • ATMs and bank machines dispense Swiss francs

  • Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted

  • Contactless and mobile payments are common

  • Switzerland is one of the most cashless-friendly countries in the world

Tips for UK Travellers

  • Use a travel card (Starling, Monzo, Wise, or Chase) to avoid conversion fees and poor exchange rates

  • If you’re offered to pay in GBP at checkout, always choose to pay in CHF to avoid dynamic currency conversion charges

  • Withdraw cash from bank-affiliated ATMs for the best rates

  • Exchange back unused francs before returning, as CHF is a non-commonly stocked currency in the UK

FAQs

Is SFr still used today?
Yes, mainly in retail or informal use in Switzerland. However, CHF is the globally recognised code.

Can I use euros in Switzerland?
Some tourist areas may accept euros, but at poor exchange rates. Swiss francs are preferred.

Is Switzerland expensive?
Yes. Switzerland is consistently ranked among the most expensive countries in Europe.