As of today, the Swiss city of Lugano has implemented a policy to accept cryptocurrencies, including Bitcoin and Tether, to pay municipal services and taxes.

Lugano’s decision facilitates an automated payment process via the Swiss institutional-grade cryptocurrency platform Bitcoin Suisse. This new system allows citizens and companies to pay for any local service or tax amount in cryptocurrencies. Practical implementation involves using the Swiss QR bill, which enables payments through mobile wallets and selected cryptocurrencies.

This development is part of Lugano’s broader “Plan B” strategy, a collaborative venture with Tether, focusing on using Bitcoin technology to revolutionize the city’s financial infrastructure. Bitcoin Suisse is a crucial technical partner, integrating payment solutions for tax collection and other municipal services.

Lugano’s journey in embracing digital currency began in March 2022 in collaboration with Tether. The city has been exploring blockchain technology through various initiatives like the MyLugano app, LVGA Points payment token, the Lugano digital franc, and the 3Achain blockchain infrastructure.

Lugano is not an isolated case in Switzerland. The Swiss canton of Zug and the municipality of Zermatt have previously integrated Bitcoin into their financial operations, accepting it for tax payments in 2021 and 2020, respectively, in partnership with Bitcoin Suisse.