Do I need to be a Swiss resident to open a consulting business?

Sole proprietors need a Swiss B/C permit with self‑employment. GmbH/AG require at least one Swiss‑resident director with signing authority; shareholders may be non‑residents. Resident director services cost ~CHF 4,500–9,000/yr.

What are the estimated costs to register a GmbH?

Total CHF 22,000–28,000: CHF 20,000 share capital (deposited), CHF 700–3,000 notary, CHF 420–700 register, CHF 500–1,500 drafting. Ongoing CHF 3,000–8,000/yr for accounting, tax filing, and domiciliation.

How long does the company formation process take?

Registration takes 2–4 weeks from notarization (2–3 days in Zurich/Zug if expedited). End‑to‑end timeline to an operational bank account is typically 6–10 weeks.

Can I run my consulting business entirely in English?

Yes for daily business and contracts. Official filings must be in an official language (German, French or Italian) depending on canton; many notaries and registers offer bilingual service.

What ongoing compliance obligations exist after registration?

Annual financial statements (6–9 months after year‑end, canton‑dependent), VAT returns quarterly/semi‑annually, AHV/AVS contributions monthly/quarterly, and at least one annual shareholder meeting with minutes.

How does Switzerland's double taxation treaty network benefit consulting firms?

DTTs (100+ countries) prevent double taxation on cross‑border projects; income is typically taxed in Switzerland (11.9–21.6% effective). Treaties also reduce withholding on dividends, interest, and royalties.

What insurance coverage should consulting firms maintain?

Recommended: professional liability (CHF 1,500–5,000/yr for CHF 1–5m cover), general liability (CHF 800–2,000/yr), and D&O (CHF 2,000–8,000/yr). Not mandatory but prudent.

Can I operate a consulting business from home in Switzerland?

Yes, if operations don’t disturb neighbors or create traffic. Notify your landlord and get consent if renting; some cantons require a separate entrance. Home office costs are deductible if used exclusively for business.

How do I hire my first employee as a consulting firm?

Register with AHV/AVS as employer, obtain accident insurance (UVG/LAA), register for family allowance, and join a pension fund (BVG/LPP) if salary > CHF 22,050. Employer costs add ~15–20% to gross salary.

What are the requirements for foreign consultants working temporarily in Switzerland?

EU/EFTA: up to 90 days/yr without permit (must pre‑register). Non‑EU: need visa and cantonal work authorization. For >90 days, all foreign nationals need residence/work permits (B), subject to quotas.

How does VAT work for international consulting services?

Swiss clients: 8.1% VAT. B2B abroad: generally zero‑rated via reverse charge. B2C abroad: depends on where the service is performed. Keep records of client location/status; errors trigger 1–5% penalties plus interest.

What are the key differences between cantonal tax rates for consulting firms?

Effective CIT ranges from 11.9% (Zug) to 21.6% (Geneva). Cantons differ in deadlines, prepayment schedules, IP/holding treatment, tax rulings availability, and administrative efficiency.

Can I convert my sole proprietorship to a GmbH later?

Yes. Form a GmbH, transfer assets/liabilities, close the sole prop, and transfer contracts/licenses. Possible capital gains on appreciated assets. Takes ~6–8 weeks and CHF 3,000–6,000 beyond standard GmbH costs.

What banking options exist for consulting firms in Switzerland?

Traditional banks (UBS, Credit Suisse, cantonal) require in‑person opening and charge CHF 30–100/month. Digital banks (Neon, Zak) cost CHF 0–20 with limited services. Opening takes 2–6 weeks with standard documents.

How do I protect my consulting firm's intellectual property?

Register trademarks with IGE/IPI (CHF 550) or EUIPO (EUR 850). Copyright is automatic. Patents: CHF 200–500 plus CHF 3,000–10,000 attorney fees. Use NDAs and contract clauses to retain methodology IP.

20.12.2025 • 17 min read

Consulting companies in Switzerland: a complete guide to starting your firm

Switzerland's consulting market offers international entrepreneurs a stable, tax-transparent environment for launching advisory businesses.

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By Markus Pritzker

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

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