EU student permit+paperwork

Visas, Permits, Passports and Naturalization
1
Hello!

I am planning to move to St. Gallen in a month or two, before my master's start and I need some help to sort some things out.

Basically my issue is that, from what I gathered, I need a swiss bank account to get internet (for home + mobile plan), pay insurance, rent etc. but for me to get a swiss bank account I need the residence permit. I'm from the EU, and I've been told I will just have to go to the cantonal government and I will get my student permit without problem.

So basically my question is: Is it possible to pay for my rent, insurance, internet with a non-swiss bank account or cash for the first month, since I will not have a swiss account yet, or I have to go and get my permit before I fully move? Like, I don't want to move there not able to get internet or anything while I get my permit/bank account. And I'm not even sure I can get an apartment without these?

Also which bank is best? I've been recommended neon by a few people.

2
Nope, you don't need a residence permit to get a bank account. There are banks like Swissquote which accept people living outside CH without a problem.

3
For sure it is possible, you take the cash and pay the invoice at a Post Office, without a problem.

There is no answer to that question DYOR. I used UBS, BCV, BCVs, Postfinance, SQ...etc..etc.. they all have different advantages and disadvantages.

4
Thanks a lot! That's one less thing to stress about haha