Can a foreigner start a company in Switzerland?

Yes. Non‑EU/EFTA founders can form a GmbH (CHF 20,000) or AG (CHF 100,000). One Swiss‑resident director is required. Typical documents: notarized passport, business plan, capital proof, clean record, health insurance; permits depend on viability and integration.

What is the minimum capital required to start a GmbH in Switzerland?

CHF 20,000, fully paid at registration. Deposit the capital into a Swiss bank blocked account before filing with the Commercial Register.

Which canton is best for my business from a tax perspective?

It depends. Zug ~11.9% suits holdings/finance; Nidwalden ~12% with IP reliefs; Lucerne ~12.3% for SMEs; Vaud ~14% with incentives. Federal tax 8.5%; total effective rates ~11.9%–21.6% by canton and business type.

How long does the company formation process take?

Typically 1–3 weeks from submission if documents are complete; complex cases may take 4–8 weeks. With prepared documents and online processes, 2–3 weeks is common.

Do I need to live in Switzerland to own a company there?

No. Owners can live abroad. The company must keep a Swiss registered office and have at least one Swiss‑resident director (permit B or C) with signing authority.

What are the ongoing compliance requirements for a Swiss company?

Keep accounts, file annual financial statements and tax returns (federal, cantonal, municipal), hold required meetings, and maintain social insurance and VAT registrations where applicable. Non‑compliance can lead to fines or dissolution.

Can I operate my Swiss company remotely from abroad?

Yes. You can operate from abroad as owner. Maintain a Swiss registered office and a Swiss‑resident director to handle compliance and signings. Professional resident‑director services are legal and common.

27.11.2025

Why start a business in Switzerland: top benefits for 2025

Switzerland attracts entrepreneurs worldwide for compelling reasons. The decision to start a company in Switzerland represents a strategic commitment to stability, prestige, and global market access. Key advantages of doing business here include a unique tax system, political predictability, and access to an innovation ecosystem unmatched in Europe.

Business in Switzerland

Discuss with ChatGPT
Summarize in Perplexity
Analyze with Claude
Ask Grok on X
Summarize with Google AI

By Unknown Author

Position of the author

Contact us

If you would like a personal meeting with a lawyer at one of our offices, please use the contact form to specify your case