How long does it take to obtain crypto authorization in Switzerland?

Company registration 2–4 weeks; docs 4–6 weeks; SRO review 6–8 weeks; bank account 4–8 weeks. Total 3–4 months. Add 9–16 months if a FinTech or full banking license is required.

What is the minimum share capital for a crypto company (GmbH/AG)?

GmbH: CHF 20,000 fully paid. AG: CHF 100,000 (≥CHF 50,000 paid at registration). Capital must be deposited in a Swiss bank before registration.

Is a Swiss-resident director required?

Yes. At least one director must be a Swiss resident with signature authority and be entered in the Commercial Register (CO art. 718(4), 814(3)). Banks also expect a resident director for onboarding.

Do I need to pay taxes on crypto profits in Switzerland as a private individual?

Private capital gains on crypto held as private assets are tax‑free. Crypto is subject to cantonal wealth tax (≈0.05–1% p.a.). Professional trading is taxed as income.

Which bank in Switzerland is best suited for working with crypto?

Crypto‑friendly options include SEBA Bank, Sygnum Bank, Maerki Baumann, Bank Frick (LI) and Falcon Private Bank. SEBA and Sygnum are fully licensed crypto banks with custody, trading and lending.

Can I serve EU clients with a Swiss license?

Yes, but a Swiss license does not grant EU passporting. To serve the EU you must rely on reverse solicitation only or establish an EU entity and obtain MiCA authorization.

Are registration documents accepted in English?

Yes. Most SROs and authorities accept applications and reports in English as well as German, French or Italian.

What are the main differences between AG and GmbH for crypto companies?

AG: CHF 100k capital (≥CHF 50k paid), greater shareholder privacy; suited to larger or institutional setups. GmbH: CHF 20k fully paid, simpler and cheaper; owners publicly listed. Both require a Swiss‑resident director.

How does FINMA classify tokens?

Payment tokens (means of payment, AML); Utility tokens (access, generally not securities if usable at issuance); Asset tokens (securities law). Hybrids are assessed case‑by‑case by predominant economic function.

What is the DLT Act and how does it affect crypto businesses?

It created ledger‑based securities with legal force and a license class for DLT trading facilities under FinMIA, clarifying smart contracts, insolvency and client asset segregation.

What are the permitted activities for SRO members?

Payment services; custodial storage up to 60 days; transfers of third‑party assets; crypto‑fiat and crypto‑crypto exchange; ICO/STO facilitation. No public deposit‑taking; no direct marketing abroad.

What are the key AML/KYC obligations for crypto companies?

CDD from CHF 1,000 (linked in 30 days), verify clients/UBOs, monitor transactions, report to MROS, keep records 10 years, appoint AML officer, written policies, staff training, and undergo independent annual audits. Travel rule applies.

How much does it cost to register a crypto company in Switzerland?

Initial costs: CHF 56,000–189,000 (incl. share capital, legal, SRO). Annual ongoing: CHF 14,000–34,000 (audit, compliance, resident director).

What is the difference between a FinTech license and SRO membership?

SRO: faster (3–4 months), lower capital (CHF 20k–100k), no public deposit‑taking. FinTech: accept deposits up to CHF 100m, min capital ≥CHF 300k, timeline 9–16 months, stricter FINMA oversight.

Can I conduct an STO in Switzerland without a prospectus?

Yes, if an exemption applies: only professional investors; fewer than 500 non‑professional investors in 12 months; or total offer ≤CHF 8m in 12 months. Otherwise a FinSA prospectus with approval is required.

20.12.2025 • 43 min read

Cryptocurrencies and blockchain in Switzerland: complete guide to regulation and licensing

Switzerland, known globally as "Crypto Valley," has established itself as one of the most progressive and stable jurisdictions for crypto and blockchain business. This success stems from the synergy of clear regulation by FINMA, innovative legislation (the DLT Act), and a developed financial infrastructure.

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By Markus Pritzker

Swiss Business Lawyer & Corporate Formation Specialist. Off-counsel at SwissFirma network.

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