Conditions for using the archives

The BIS Archive is located in the BIS Tower at Centralbahnplatz 2, Basel, and is open to researchers by appointment only. Opening times are normally Monday to Friday 09:00 to 12:30 and 14:00 to 17:30. The Archive is closed on bank holidays, BIS board meeting days and the day of the AGM. A maximum of two researchers are permitted access at any one time, and only then when they are working jointly on a project. Researchers are permitted to use their own laptop PC and can bring a camera to take pictures of archival documents where this is permitted.

How to apply for access

Please contact the Archive as below, stating your research interest, and giving the name, address, telephone number and e-mail address of two referees who can vouch for your suitability to use the Archive. If you are a student, one of your referees should be your thesis or dissertation supervisor, or personal tutor. Also please include your home address (not professional address or post office box), to which your letter of invitation will be sent.

BIS Archive
Bank for International Settlements
CH-4002 Basel

Fax: + 41-61-280 91 00 or + 41-61-280 81 00
Telephone: +41-61-280 80 61 or +41-61-280 82 81
E-mail: archive$bis.org (where "$" denotes "@")

Researchers will be sent a letter of invitation, which they must bring with them at the time of their visit, as well as valid identification bearing a photograph.