Swiss company registration

Successful entrepreneurs choose to do business in Switzerland and not by chance. The key points are a transparent economy, a high standard of living, and stability. However, it is essential to understand the company registration Switzerland process before you begin and how to get Swiss company registration number.

Swiss company registration

Advantages of Business in Switzerland

Swiss company registration has several attractive advantages:

  • Financial stability: Switzerland is renowned for its high economic strength, creating a favorable business environment.
  • Tax incentives: Switzerland can offer attractive tax conditions and incentives for corporations depending on the canton and company structure.
  • Advanced Infrastructure: Modern infrastructure provides efficient communications, transport networks, and access to advanced technologies.
  • Excellent rule of law and a reliable justice system: Predictable laws and a reliable justice system promote trust and security in doing business after Swiss company registration.
  • High levels of education and workforce skills: Switzerland has outstanding levels of education and workforce skills, making it attractive to a variety of industries.
  • Geographical location: A favorable geographical location in the center of Europe provides convenient access to world markets.
  • Stable currency: The Swiss franc is a stable currency that protects against currency risks.

All active companies in Switzerland are given a standardised company registration number Switzerland.

Business visa to Switzerland

A visa category “D” and the corresponding permit from the cantonal authorities will be required for a legal stay of more than three months in the confederation territory. The Swiss consulate issues visas in all countries.

Business visa to Switzerland

Would you talk with someone in our company regarding any issues? Just drop us a line!

Forms of ownership

Joint-Stock CompanyThe most common form of ownership. The minimum number of shareholders is three people. In this case, one of the shareholders must be a resident or citizen of Switzerland. The authorized capital is 100,000 Swiss francs (about 99,000 US dollars). At Swiss company registration, at least 20 percent of the shares must be paid up for at least CHF 50,000. The liability of shareholders for obligations is limited to the size of each contribution to the authorized capital. Information about shareholders is classified information.
Limited Liability CompanyThe minimum number of founders is two (one must be a Swiss citizen). The authorized capital number is 20,000 francs (about 19,800 US dollars). At registration, at least 50 percent of the authorized capital must be paid. The founders are responsible for the amount of their contribution. Information about the founders is publicly available.
Individual entrepreneur (the optimal form of business for freelancers, doctors, lawyers, people of creative professions).There are no requirements for authorized capital. Company registration Switzerland in the commercial register is not mandatory if the annual turnover does not exceed 100,000 francs (approx. 99,000 US dollars). The disadvantage of this form of business is the unlimited liability of the entrepreneur for his obligations.

Buying an existing business in Switzerland

Buying a ready-made, established business is a good investment and is suitable for those who want to receive a stable income from the first day. Before purchasing a company and organizing company registration Switzerland, you should comprehensively study the degree of its profitability and the possibilities of its further development. A notary accompanies registering a purchase and sale transaction of a ready-made business.

FAQs

Registering a company in Switzerland offers numerous advantages including financial stability, attractive tax incentives, advanced infrastructure, excellent rule of law, a highly skilled workforce, favorable geographical location, and a stable currency. These factors create a conducive environment for business growth and success, making Switzerland a preferred destination for entrepreneurs worldwide.

In Switzerland, the primary forms of company ownership are Joint-Stock Company (AG), Limited Liability Company (GmbH), and Individual Entrepreneur. AG requires a minimum capital of CHF 100,000 with at least one Swiss resident shareholder. GmbH requires a minimum capital of CHF 20,000 with at least one Swiss resident founder. Individual Entrepreneur has no capital requirement but involves unlimited liability.

To obtain a Swiss company registration number, the business must be officially registered with the Swiss Commercial Register. This involves providing necessary documentation, meeting capital requirements, and complying with legal formalities. The registration number is a standardized identifier for all active companies in Switzerland, ensuring transparency and regulatory compliance.

To register a Joint-Stock Company (AG) in Switzerland, at least three shareholders are needed, one of whom must be a Swiss resident. The authorized capital must be CHF 100,000, with at least CHF 50,000 paid up. The registration process involves drafting and notarizing the articles of incorporation, depositing the initial capital, and registering with the Swiss Commercial Register. Shareholder information remains confidential.

For a Limited Liability Company (GmbH) in Switzerland, at least two founders are required, one of whom must be a Swiss resident. The minimum authorized capital is CHF 20,000, with at least half paid up at registration. The founders’ information is publicly accessible. The process includes drafting the company’s articles of association, capital deposit, and registration with the Swiss Commercial Register.

Entrepreneurs planning to stay in Switzerland for more than three months need a category “D” visa and a corresponding permit from the cantonal authorities. The Swiss consulate in the applicant’s country of residence issues these visas. This visa is essential for legal business operations and long-term stays in Switzerland.

Buying an existing business in Switzerland can be advantageous as it provides immediate income and established operations. However, it is crucial to thoroughly assess the business’s profitability and growth potential. The purchase and sale transaction must be notarized, ensuring legal compliance and a smooth transfer of ownership.

Individual entrepreneurs in Switzerland are not required to have an authorized capital or register in the commercial register if their annual turnover is below CHF 100,000. However, they bear unlimited liability for their business obligations. This form of business is suitable for freelancers, doctors, lawyers, and creative professionals.

Swiss businesses benefit from a robust legal framework that ensures predictable laws and a reliable justice system. This includes protection of property rights, enforcement of contracts, and a transparent regulatory environment. These legal protections foster a secure business climate, encouraging investment and entrepreneurship.

Switzerland’s central location in Europe provides easy access to international markets. Its advanced infrastructure, stable economy, skilled workforce, and favorable tax conditions make it an ideal hub for business operations. Additionally, the stable Swiss franc minimizes currency risks, further enhancing Switzerland’s attractiveness as a business destination.

Would you talk with someone in our company regarding any issues? Just drop us a line!

Last news