Registration of a company in Switzerland remains a strategic move for investors wishing to expand their entrepreneurship to more countries. The state is considered one of the leading multinational centers and capital projects people choose to put their investments in. Political steadiness, dependable banking field, and clear legislative framework can encourage you to complete company formation in Switzerland.
The country in question is located in the middle of Europe. It gives direct entry to crucial logistics webs and consumer markets.
This article will provide you with the most significant details regarding Switzerland Company formation. All the following data must be taken into account for the successful completion of the course of action.
The main regulations
Company incorporation in Switzerland is based on the Code of Obligations (OR), which defines how companies are founded, how capital is structured, and the scope of management liability. The local system offers flexibility compared to many jurisdictions. The two most common forms are the Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung (GmbH), or LLC, and the Aktiengesellschaft (AG), or stock corporation. Other formats—partnerships, cooperatives, and foundations—also exist, each with different implications for deposit, administration, and responsibilities.
A key feature of formation is the need for a notarial deed. Although some parts of the process can now be done digitally, notarization remains essential and is still the formal confirmation step for establishment.
Advantages of registration of a business (firm) in Switzerland
There are some considerable benefits that company incorporation Switzerland can offer. They are based on long-term steadiness and effectiveness.
- The economy is renowned for its ability to withstand global downturns, and the country has a conservative monetary policy. It creates a secure investment climate in the country.
- The banking network is extensive and skilled in managing assets and conducting international transactions.
- Strong operational support is provided by having access to knowledgeable, multilingual staff as well as cutting-edge digital and logistical systems.
- Despite not being a member of the EU, the nation’s central European location and multiple bilateral trade agreements make it a useful hub for international trade.
- The work of specialists frequently involves advice on capital structuring, market expansion, and acquisitions, assisting businesses in better utilizing Switzerland’s position.
Capitalization and Management
Starting a company involves meeting specific capital and governance conditions.
Capital Levels
- For a GmbH, the smallest deposit is CHF 20,000, which must be fully deposited before formation.
- For an AG, the smallest is CHF 100,000, with at least CHF 50,000 (or 20% of the nominal value, whichever is higher) paid in during formation.
Administration Residency
Management must encompass at least one citizen of the country in question in order to keep ties to the jurisdiction.
- One board member must reside in the nation under analysis in order to be an AG.
- One director must reside for a GmbH.
Although citizenship is not a demand, the law guarantees national accountability.
Address and Name
It is required to have a local address within the country. The name that is selected must be original and cannot be a duplicate of any name that is already on the database.
Creation Steps
Making a temporary capital contribution fiscal institution account, signing the founding papers in front of a notary public, and sending the papers to the cantonal database for approval and publication are all steps in the process.
What you have to do after enrollment
Following the company’s listing in the official database, a number of actions must be taken.
- It is necessary to convert the capital contribution temporary account into a permanent one. Depending on the bank’s internal review, the course of action may take some time. The account opening process is frequently facilitated by specialized firms.
- Before beginning work in regulated fields like digital currency operations or payment services, the necessary authorizations must be acquired.
- Setting up internal systems, protecting a physical location (or virtual base), and making sure the infrastructure can support the business’s operations.
- To safeguard the brand and avoid future disputes, trademark registration should be completed as soon as possible.
Taxation of business in Switzerland
Due to the separation of country-wide and regional powers, the local tax system is both competitive and complicated.
Canons have complete control over profit taxes. While cantonal rates differ from federal rates, each canton must be taken into account separately. Zug and Lucerne are well-liked for holding and trading businesses because they typically have the lowest effective profit taxes. For tax reasons alone, Zurich isn’t always the best option.
Country-wide, regional, and communal taxes are paid by businesses. Depending on the location, combined rates usually fall between 12% and 22%.
Foreign company branches are not distinct legal entities and are only subject to taxation on earnings originating in the country.
Size affects audit demands. If turnover, assets, and personnel fall below certain thresholds, small businesses may be exempt. Public or large businesses must go through a thorough audit.
As of January 1, 2024, the VAT rate is 8.1%. Experts can assist with tax disputes and cross-border planning.
Important aspects
The regional regulatory setup combines 26 cantonal codes with federal law, creating a complex framework. Corporate structure and tax treatment differ by canton; approval in one can mean extra costs or hurdles in another. Choosing the canton of operation is a key strategic step that must be decided before formal enrollment. Moving a domicile later is expensive and time-consuming.
Right after you made the payment, you are obliged to make an account in a fiscal institution which is frequently considered quite a challenge. Fiscal institutions apply strict assessment, especially where cross-border capital is involved. A local address is not enough — they expect clear evidence of real local activity or management presence. Without it, account approval is delayed or denied.
Bookkeeping rules are strict and apply to all entities. Even small firms must keep proper records. Audit exemptions are possible for small companies, but only if they consistently stay below limits for staff, assets, and turnover. Larger firms are subject to yearly external audits, which represent a fixed recurring cost.
Our Services
Eternity Law International provides backing related to registration of a company for foreigners in Switzerland.
Our experts coordinate with people throughout the whole course of action of enrollment starting from creation of the new organization and ending with feasible re registering a company in Switzerland or closing down. All legal preparation and interaction with authorities are handled on behalf of the client.
If you want to start operating immediately, you can take a look at ready-made organizations for sale, some with existing banking arrangements. We also assist with the process of getting permissions related to diverse sectors encompassing fintech, payment processing, digital assets, and gaming.
If you need more details on how to register a company in Switzerland online, contact us.
Final thoughts
Switzerland company registration in 2025 requires precision and discipline. It is necessary to understand the dual-layer system and practical demands for deposit and administration residency. Only by taking account of such things will you be able to achieve success.
Considering the fact that cantonal diversity can greatly influence profitability, it is important to sort out tax implications. Zug and Lucerne offer the most appealing conditions. Getting the demanded authorizations and creating internal controls from the very beginning can make you operational as soon as possible.
It is also advisable to involve an expert that will assist you with the whole creation course of action, including the one when you want to re register company in Switzerland.
FAQ
Can a non-local person start a company in Switzerland?
Yes. Owners and founders are not restricted by nationality. In order to ensure a point of contact within the regional legal system, it is imperative that at least one director or board member reside there permanently. It is important to remark that you can carry out the course of action distantly.
What are the capital conditions to start a company in Switzerland?
The smallest of CHF 20,000 must be paid in full before a GmbH can be formed. An AG requires CHF 100,000, of which at least CHF 50,000 (or 20% of the nominal value) must be paid at the time of establishment. These sums, which establish the company’s liability structure, are established by law.
What is the “8-day rule” in Switzerland?
This regulation is applicable to temporary cross-border labor. Employees from EU/EFTA nations are exempt from notifying authorities if they are posted for fewer than eight days in a calendar year. Working in certain industries, like construction, or going over this limit requires giving the appropriate canton advance notice.
How to verify if a company is listed in Switzerland?
The regional index Zefix gives public access to organization data. By searching the company’s name or its UID number, anyone can confirm its legal status, address, and type of structure.
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