Register Company in Switzerland

Discover a seamless pathway to establishing your business in Switzerland with Fionza Consultants. Our comprehensive service package encompasses Switzerland company registration, corporate bank account setup, and handling accounting and tax obligations. Fionza Consultants is your ultimate one-stop solution to kickstart your business in Switzerland, ensuring a smooth and legally compliant entry into the Swiss market.

Switzerland

Company Registration – 3 Week
Local Director? – Yes
Bank Account Opening – 4 Weeks
Travel Required – No

Register company in Switzerland: Introduction

Embark on a hassle-free journey to register your company in Switzerland with Fionza Consultants. Streamline the entire incorporation process and free up your valuable time and resources for more crucial aspects of your business. Our efficient and focused approach ensures a smooth experience as you register your company in Switzerland. Benefit from our expert team’s lean-and-mean mentality, guiding you seamlessly through the entire process. Our top priority is to have your Switzerland company operationally ready within the agreed-upon timeframe. Our comprehensive service package covers all your needs for registering a company in Switzerland, including:

Switzerland company registration with the Commercial Registry Office
Professional Switzerland nominee director service
Local company secretary and registered address
Corporate bank account opening
Financial license application (if applicable)
Annual accounting and tax services.

How long to register company in Switzerland and open corporate bank account?

Rely on the expertise of Fionza Consultants to facilitate a seamless and stress-free offshore company registration in Switzerland. Upon submission of necessary due diligence documents for directors and shareholders, our team will conduct a Switzerland company registration search to verify the availability of your chosen company name.

The entire process of registering a company in Switzerland with the Commercial Registry Office can be efficiently managed remotely, eliminating the need for you to travel to Switzerland. Within a span of 3 weeks, you can anticipate receiving crucial documents for your new company, such as the Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum of Association (MoA), and Articles of Association (AoA).

Following a successful company formation, Fionza Consultants will guide you through the process of opening a corporate bank account, whether with a local Swiss bank or an international bank based on your long-term objectives. Expect the corporate bank account setup to be completed in approximately 4 weeks.

Consequently, you’ll be poised to commence operations and issue invoices with your Switzerland company within 7 weeks of engaging Fionza Consultants. Our team of Chartered Accountants remains dedicated to ensuring ongoing compliance with regulatory laws set by the Swiss Tax Administration. This encompasses monthly bookkeeping, financial statement preparation, and annual tax return filings for your newly established company.

Can a foreigner register company in Switzerland?

Explore a multitude of company types in Switzerland with options tailored for foreign investors, facilitated by the Swiss government. Fionza Consultants stands ready to guide you through the intricacies of starting a business in Switzerland as a foreigner, offering expert advice on necessary steps and requirements.

Typically, initiating a limited liability company (LLC) in Switzerland requires a minimum of 1 shareholder and 1 director, with no specific nationality restrictions for directors or shareholders. However, at least one director must be a resident of Switzerland. LLCs necessitate a minimum share capital of Swiss Franc 20,000, while partnerships, branch offices, and representative offices have no such capital requirements.

Resident companies in Switzerland are subject to corporate income tax on profits sourced within the country. This tax is levied at federal, cantonal, and communal levels, with the federal tax rate fixed at 8.5%, while cantonal and communal rates vary by location.

Choosing the right business structure is crucial, considering factors like personal liability protection, tax implications, ownership flexibility, and compliance requirements. Fionza Consultants, before engagement, thoroughly comprehends your business needs, considering factors such as business activity, tax obligations, and the nationalities of shareholders and directors. Our consultants provide detailed insights into entity requirements.

In most cases, setting up a company in Switzerland entails a director with Swiss permanent residency, a local registered address, and a registered agent. Fionza Consultants ensures a seamless process, leveraging our expertise to guide you in selecting the most optimal business structure for your venture in Switzerland.

Types of business structure to consider when you register company in Switzerland

Let Fionza Consultants streamline the process of registering your company in Switzerland. Switzerland offers four main company types for setup: Limited Liability Company (GmbH/SARL), Partnership, Branch Office, and Representative Office.

Limited Liability Company (GmbH/SARL): A Swiss LLC, or GmbH/SARL, is a distinct legal entity formed by one or more individuals. Each partner’s liability is limited to the predetermined nominal capital. Minimal Swiss franc 20,000 capital is required, with at least one local resident director. An SARL is ideal for small or medium-sized enterprises, allowing management delegation to all members.

Partnership: Involving 2 or more co-owners, a partnership doesn’t constitute a separate legal entity. General and Limited Partnerships exist, with the former having joint liability and the latter involving both general and limited partners. No minimum capital stipulations exist, requiring only two individuals, with one being a Swiss permanent resident.

Branch Office: Foreign companies can establish a branch in Switzerland, filing annual tax returns and audited financial statements. The branch is not a separate legal entity, and there’s no minimum capital requirement. A local representative residing in Switzerland is necessary, and the parent company is liable for the branch’s debts.

Representative Office: Foreign companies may set up a representative office in Switzerland, focused on non-income-generating activities like market research. A local representative is required, and the representative office lacks the authority to negotiate contracts or bind the company.

Fionza Consultants ensures a seamless process, guiding you through the selection of the most suitable company type for your business needs in Switzerland.

How to register a company in Switzerland?

Discover the essential steps outlined by Fionza Consultants’ expert team to guide you through the process of registering your company in Switzerland. Before embarking on offshore company registration in Switzerland, it’s crucial to understand the following steps:

Step 1: Choosing an Optimum Business Structure: Selecting the right business structure is paramount. Fionza Consultants advises on the most suitable form, share capital, corporate structure, and applicable licenses based on your business and long-term goals. Typically, a Limited Liability Company is recommended for its commonality in Switzerland.

Step 2: Reservation of Company Name: Before initiating the registration process, Fionza Consultants conducts a name search and reserves your company name through the Commercial Registry. This ensures uniqueness and compliance with the Swiss trade register.

Step 3: Preparation and Submission of Relevant Documents: To proceed with Swiss offshore company formation, Fionza Consultants requires essential Know Your Customer (KYC) documents, including director names, company resolution, and identification proof. We then draft and notarize necessary documents such as the Memorandum and Articles of Association and the business plan. Upon successful registration, we courier the Certificate of Incorporation and corporate articles to your preferred address.

Step 4: Corporate Bank Account Opening: Depending on your chosen business structure, Fionza Consultants facilitates the opening of a corporate bank account with a reputable bank. We consolidate necessary details, eliminating the need for directors and shareholders to travel to Switzerland. If required, our team can accompany you to the bank meeting or arrange a conference call. Once the account is open, we courier the internet banking token and access codes to your preferred address.

Rely on Fionza Consultants for a streamlined and efficient process to register your company in Switzerland, tailored to your business needs.

Swiss Financial License

n 2020, significant regulatory changes were implemented under the Financial Services Act (FinSA) and Financial Institutions Act (FinIA), introducing new licensing requirements for finance companies operating in Switzerland. The FinIA categorizes financial institutions into five groups: portfolio managers, trustees, managers of collective assets, fund management companies, and securities firms.

Previously, some financial institutions, like portfolio managers, operated without a license, relying on supervision from self-regulating organizations or the Swiss Financial Markets Supervisory Authority (FINMA). However, with the new regulations, all financial institutions must obtain a license from FINMA for engaging in financial-market related activities.

Under the updated Act, financial entities must strictly adhere to the financial, organizational, and risk-minimization requirements set by FINMA. In 2019, Switzerland also introduced a FinTech license for financial enterprises. This license allows companies to receive public deposits of up to CHF 100 million, provided these deposits remain uninvested, and no interest is paid on them.

The FinTech license, not limited to a specific financial activity, offers greater flexibility to fintech businesses, coupled with relaxed requirements. Depending on your business activity, Fionza Consultants will facilitate the application for the relevant financial license, ensuring compliance with the evolving regulatory landscape in Switzerland.

Accounting and tax obligations

When it comes to incorporating your company, accounting and tax considerations play a pivotal role. Entrust these critical tasks to Fionza Consultants, and rest assured that you’re in capable hands. Our team of consultants is dedicated to managing your Swiss accounting and tax obligations seamlessly, allowing you to focus on your business without the need for extensive travel.

Outsourcing your accounting and tax requirements to Fionza Consultants not only guarantees timely completion of financial statements, corporate tax returns, and audits but also offers the advantage of reducing overhead costs. Our efficient team ensures that reporting and filings are conducted promptly.

Before commencing the engagement, our accounting team will keep you informed about all necessary deadlines and expectations. Subsequently, we proactively prepare all required filings in advance, ensuring that stipulated deadlines are met. By choosing Fionza Consultants, you not only streamline your financial processes but also gain cost savings and peace of mind through our proactive and expert approach to accounting and tax management.

Annual reporting requirements

n Switzerland, a typical fiscal year for a company spans from 1 January to 31 December, with tax returns due within 3 months after the end of the tax period. It’s crucial for most Swiss entities, including Sole Enterprises and partnerships generating a minimum of CHF 500,000 in sales revenue, to maintain proper books of account and retain records for at least 10 years.

Companies exceeding two of the following thresholds in two consecutive business years are required to undergo audits, or they have the option to opt out of this requirement. These thresholds include a balance sheet total of CHF 20 million, revenue of CHF 40 million, and an annual average of 250 full-time equivalent employees.

Corporate income tax is applicable only to resident companies for their taxable profits sourced from Switzerland. Foreign investors may face corporate income tax if they are partners in a Swiss business, own Swiss real estate, or deal with a broker of Swiss real estate property. At the federal level, there is a flat rate of 8.5% on profit after tax, but at the cantonal and communal levels, tax laws and burdens vary.

Value-added tax (VAT) is also applicable based on reported sale amounts for goods and services, typically levied at a rate of 7.7%. Certain industries, like the hotel industry, may have different VAT rates.

Fionza Consultants, based on your business residence, continues to provide guidance on your specific tax obligations, ensuring compliance with the evolving regulatory landscape in Switzerland.

Why register company in Switzerland?

Before embarking on registering a business in Switzerland, it’s crucial to grasp the business landscape of the jurisdiction. This ensures that your newly established company can safely and legally conduct business, aligning with your long-term goals.

Political: Switzerland boasts political stability and neutrality in its international relations. The presence of legislatures and governments in all Swiss Cantons contributes to transparency and a system of checks and balances. Switzerland is ranked 3rd in Transparency International’s 2020 Corruption Perceptions Index, signifying a low level of public sector corruption.

Economic: As a member of the European Free Trade Association, Switzerland benefits from bilateral agreements that simplify cross-border transactions. The country ranks 5th in the 2019 Global Competitiveness Report, reflecting its competitiveness. The strong Swiss franc indicates a robust economy.

Social: Switzerland has four national languages, and its population exhibits a high level of English proficiency, ranking 18th globally. With a low language barrier, doing business in Switzerland is facilitated. The Swiss population is generally satisfied with their lives, according to the OECD’s Better Life Index.

Technological: Approximately 93.1% of the Swiss population was online in 2019, showcasing the strong interaction between technology and the Swiss. The country is recognized as the world’s most innovative in 2020 by the World Intellectual Property Organisation.

Legal: Switzerland provides a business-friendly environment with favorable taxation laws. Cantons offer incentives to businesses, making it financially rewarding. The Federal Civil Procedure Code mandates an expedited procedure for commercial disputes not exceeding CHF 30,000. However, there is some criticism regarding the independence of Swiss supreme court judges.

Environmental: Switzerland adopts a diversified energy supply to combat environmental issues. The country reaffirms its commitment to climate action under The Paris Agreement, and there is an increasing recognition of the importance of environmental conservation, as seen in the success of Green parties in the 2019 elections.

Fionza Consultants ensures you navigate the complexities of the Swiss business landscape seamlessly, providing insights and assistance tailored to your specific business needs.

Looking to register company in Switzerland?

Explore a comprehensive solution for your company registration needs in Switzerland with Fionza Consultants. Our offerings encompass seamless company formation, registered agent services, provision of a registered address, and assistance with opening a business bank account.

For detailed insights on the process and requirements of registering a company in Switzerland, reach out to us. Contact us now to delve deeper into the intricacies of company registration in Switzerland. Our dedicated and experienced team is committed to providing prompt responses, addressing all your queries within the next 24 hours. Partner with Fionza Consultants for a hassle-free and efficient experience in registering your company in Switzerland.

FAQ

What is the best business to start in Switzerland?

- The manufacturing, financial and tourism sectors are the major sectors in Switzerland that one may consider setting up a business in.
- One of the major drivers of the Swiss economy, the manufacturing sector has a strong global presence due to the high levels of innovation and superb quality of goods. Switzerland’s main exports include machinery and equipment, watches, chocolate, medical products and clothing. Hence, it may be profitable to set up a business selling such products in Switzerland.
- Another major industry is the financial industry. Due to the strict requirements to set up a financial company and the strong regulatory laws, Switzerland financial entities are generally regarded to be more credible and secure. Client information is also kept strictly confidential in Switzerland, and it is a criminal offense to reveal any personal information about a client. One of the largest offshore financial centres, Switzerland is a reputable jurisdiction for financial entities. Hence, it is profitable to set up a financial business in Switzerland. The introduction of the new FinTech license also presents new business opportunities to start-ups.
- Lastly, the service sector, consisting of the financial and tourism industries, contributes to more than 70% of the GDP in Switzerland. Switzerland is an attractive tourist spot due to the beautiful scenery, nature parks and ski resorts. As such, starting a small business in Switzerland in the tourism industry may be profitable.

How much does it cost to start a business in Switzerland?

The minimum capital requirement for a limited liability company in Switzerland is Swiss franc 20,000. There are no minimum capital requirements for a partnership, branch and representative office in Switzerland.

As for Fionza Consultants’ engagement fees, this will depend on the exact services required from Fionza Consultants. Our fees are inclusive of government fees and all fees will be clearly stated in our engagement letter prior to the start of the engagement. Fionza Consultants believes in transparency with our valued clients and there are no hidden fees.

Do I need a company secretary to incorporate a company in Switzerland?

No, a company secretary is not necessary to incorporate a company in Switzerland. However, Fionza Consultants can provide you with a local secretary to assist in the annual tax filing and accounting requirements.

Do I need a resident director to incorporate a company in Switzerland?

Yes, a resident director is needed to incorporate a company in Switzerland. However, the resident director does not necessarily need to have Swiss citizenship. In the case of a partnership, at least one of the partners must be a Swiss resident. For branch and representative office, the company must elect one Swiss representative.

Are there any business restrictions for foreigners who incorporate in Switzerland?

No, there are no restrictions on the type of business activities a foreign owned company can undertake in Switzerland. However, it may be necessary to obtain a license or further approval if your company is operating in certain regulated industries such as banking, transport, insurance, real estate, defence and media.

Do companies in Switzerland need to file accounts?

All companies in Switzerland are required to maintain proper books of account and prepare an annual report every year. The records must be retained for at least 10 years and available to all shareholders of the company. However, it is not necessary for small businesses to file the annual report with the Commercial Registry.

Only companies who exceed 2 of the following thresholds in 2 consecutive business years will be required to perform audits. Otherwise, they may opt out of the audit requirement. These requirements include:

- A balance sheet total of Swiss franc 20 million;

- A revenue of Swiss franc 40 million; and

- An annual average of 250 full-time equivalent employees.

What is the regulatory environment in Switzerland?

In Switzerland, all companies are subjected to both federal laws and canton laws. The judicial languages used in court are German, French or Italian, depending on the location the court is situated in. Each canton has its own regulation, laws and tax system.

Generally, the federal government is only in charge of foreign affairs and some aspects of economic policy. The economic and social policy of a canton will depend largely on the respective cantonal authority. As such, it is important to understand the business law in the canton your company is incorporating in. Fionza Consultants will advise you on the regulations you should take note of before company incorporation.

What are the financial incentives available if I incorporate in Switzerland?

The governments grant tax holidays for newly incorporated companies in Switzerland. Some cantons in Switzerland may also offer grants and allowance for training programs for new businesses that employ local workers.

There may also be monetary incentives for companies that set up in specific industries such as the IT, tourist and technological industry, depending on the canton the company is incorporated in. Cantons also offer a more competitive corporate tax rate than the federal tax rate. Hence, it is important to consider the monetary and tax incentives when choosing the canton to incorporate your company in.

Where is company information kept in Switzerland?

The commercial registry of businesses in Switzerland is held at the cantonal level. While most commercial laws are governed by the federal government, specific rules relating to business activity, company incorporation and tax incentives are governed by the respective canton.

As such, the cantons are in charge of administering the commercial registry which is overseen by the federal government.

How to set up a company in Switzerland as an EU/non-EU citizen?

The process of starting a business in Switzerland as an EU citizen and starting a business in Switzerland as a non-EU citizen is different if you do not wish to employ the services of a nominee resident director. Since a company in Switzerland requires at least one resident director, you will need to ensure that you have a resident permit if you wish to be considered the resident director of your company. There is no startup visa in Switzerland.

If you are an EU citizen, you can opt to apply for a B permit. EU citizens do not have to be employed to apply for a B permit; they can procure a B permit as long as they prove that they have the financial capacity to support themselves.

If you are a non-EU citizen, you can opt to apply for a B permit or a C permit. Non-EU citizens must have an employment contract to apply for a B permit. Alternatively, they can apply for a C permit if they have passed the language proficiency test and lived in Switzerland for at least 5 years.

How do I set up an LLC in Switzerland?

To set up an LLC in Switzerland, you will need a shareholder and a director of any nationality. At least one of the directors must reside in Switzerland. You must also have a minimum share capital of Swiss franc 20,000.

Fionza Consultants will assist you with the set up process. You will have to provide the necessary KYC documents. These include the names of directors, company’s resolution and identification proof. Based on the information provided, Fionza Consultants will draft and notarize the Memorandum and Articles of Association, business plan and other incorporation articles.

Fionza Consultants will then proceed to incorporate your company. Upon successful registration of the company with the Commercial Registry, Fionza Consultants will courier the Certificate of Incorporation, Memorandum and Articles of Association and other corporate articles to your preferred address.

Register Company in Switzerland