Opening a company in Switzerland
Your business in the Swiss Confederation
Switzerland is undoubtedly one of the most attractive countries in the world to live, work, and conduct business. It offers a unique combination of political and economic stability, clean and safe environmental conditions, and fair personal and corporate taxes.
However, the tax regime is quite complex; if you’re interested in structuring your organization appropriately, contact us for more information.
What are the main types of companies in Switzerland?
The two main corporate forms provided for by Swiss legislation are:
- Limited liability company (Sarl)
- Corporation (SA)
What are the main characteristics of a Sarl?
- Mainly used for small to medium sized businesses
- Minimum capital required: CHF 20,000 (approximately €12,500)
- No restrictions on foreign members
- At least two members are required
- At least one of the directors must be resident in Switzerland
What are the main characteristics of an SA?
- Mainly used for medium to large sized businesses
- Minimum capital required: CHF 100,000 (approximately €62,000)
- At least 50% of the share capital must be paid up
- Members can remain completely anonymous
- The majority of the members of the Board of Directors must be resident in Switzerland
How difficult is it to open a company in Switzerland?
Switzerland also has its own bureaucracy, but it’s certainly easier to start a business here than in major European countries. Anyone can open a company in Switzerland, even foreigners. The formalities to complete are as follows:
- Appoint a Swiss administrator, required by law
- Draft the statute
- Open a bank account
- Register with the Chamber of Commerce
Why invest in Switzerland?
How easy is it to hire staff in the Swiss Confederation?
Although Switzerland has one of the lowest unemployment rates in Europe (about 4%), you shouldn’t have any trouble finding the right people for your company. The workforce is well-educated and highly specialized, with over 80% of workers having a secondary or vocational education diploma.
The Swiss Confederation has three main official languages: Italian, French, and German, but English is also widely used. The country has a highly advanced personnel selection system, and we will be happy to advise you.
What is the applicable regulatory and legislative framework?
Swiss authorities do their best to ensure that commercial legislation is as lenient as possible. It’s important to note that companies are subject to cantonal legislation in addition to federal law.
Cantons have legislative autonomy in taxation and regulation, so laws vary from region to region, so expert advice is essential. We have specialists on site who can guide you through any issues you may encounter.
Opening a bank account in Switzerland
Banks in Switzerland
Swiss banks represent the state of the art in terms of efficiency and confidentiality. They manage approximately a third of the world’s private assets, and most financial institutions are headquartered there. So when it comes to opening an account for your company, you’ll be spoiled for choice!
To what extent are Swiss banks regulated?
In short: severely. Swiss authorities recently introduced very stringent regulations to combat money laundering and ensure compliance with international standards. Banks here require very stringent due diligence from their clients and are extremely cautious when dealing with new clients. They prefer new clients to be introduced by people and agents they already know and trust. This is why it’s highly recommended to open a bank account with the help of our Swiss experts.
Are there funding and incentives for those investing from abroad?
There are few federal investment support programs for company formation. However, the government supports initiatives in the infrastructure, tourism, and communications sectors with subsidized loans of up to 25%.
At the cantonal level, it is possible to apply for other types of incentives, such as rental subsidies, waived residence permit requirements, tax exemptions for up to 10 years, reduced energy prices, and so on, thus facilitating the establishment of a business in Switzerland.
How can I find out more about setting up a company in Switzerland?
We can greatly simplify the process of starting your business in Switzerland. Simply contact us and we’ll provide all the assistance you need to open a company in Switzerland .