Swiss QR-bill: Specification, Check Digit, and Reference Number Explained
The Swiss QR-bill follows the SIX Implementation Guidelines version 2.4 (published 24.02.2026, valid from 14.11.2026). Key technical points: a QRR reference number consists of 26 digits plus 1 check digit calculated by a recursive modulo-10 method (27 digits in total), the QR code measures exactly 46×46 mm, and combined "K"-type addresses were removed with version 2.3 (21.11.2025) — only structured "S"-type addresses are now permitted.
- Specification
- SIX Implementation Guidelines v2.4
- Published
- 24.02.2026
- Valid from
- 14.11.2026
- QRR reference length
- 26 + 1 check digit = 27 digits
- Check-digit method
- Recursive modulo 10 (Annex B)
- QR code size
- 46 × 46 mm
- Payment part strip
- 210 × 105 mm
- Address type since v2.3 (21.11.2025)
- structured only (S), K type removed
The recursive modulo-10 check digit, recalculated
The check digit is calculated recursively from the 26 digits of the reference number using a 10×10 carry-over table (Annex B, Figure 21). The official Annex B example "21 00000 00003 13947 14300 0901" yields a check digit of 7 when the procedure is applied correctly — this result was independently confirmed against the SIX table, against the Python library stdnum.ch.esr, and by manual recalculation.
QR-IBAN vs. regular IBAN
A QR-IBAN can be recognised by its IID (institution identification) in the range 30000–31999. A QR-IBAN always requires a QRR reference — without it, banks will reject the payment. Reference types such as SCOR (ISO 11649) are not permitted for QR-IBANs.
Layout requirements
The Swiss QR code itself measures exactly 46×46 mm with a 5 mm clear zone around it. The entire payment-part strip (including the receipt half) measures 210×105 mm and sits on the same page as the invoice. The official multilingual field labels are defined in Annex C of the specification.
For your business
A correctly implemented QR-bill reduces payment delays caused by bank rejection — the most common error is an incorrect or missing check digit, or a QR-IBAN without a QRR reference.
For developers
The 10×10 carry-over table from Annex B can be implemented directly as a compact array; the calculation example above is well suited as a regression test for your own implementation.
What this does not mean
- This page summarises the technically central points but does not replace studying the full SIX specification (in particular layout details such as registration marks/perforation, the "acceptance point" box, and alternative procedures).
- The figures given (v2.4, valid from 14.11.2026) apply as of the date of this page — SIX periodically publishes new versions; the authoritative source is always the current version at six-group.com.
Frequently asked questions
- How long is a QRR reference number?
- 27 digits in total: 26 base digits plus 1 check digit, calculated using the recursive modulo-10 method from Annex B of the SIX specification.
- Can I use a QR-IBAN without a QRR reference?
- No — a QR-IBAN (IID 30000–31999) always requires a QRR reference, otherwise the payment will be rejected by banks.
- Are combined addresses (type K) still permitted on the Swiss QR-bill?
- No, since version 2.3 (21.11.2025) only structured addresses (type S) are permitted.