Setting up a company in Switzerland as a foreigner
Switzerland is an attractive jurisdiction for foreign entrepreneurs looking to establish a company. With its strategic location in the heart of Europe, excellent economy and infrastructure, and highly skilled workforce, Switzerland offers numerous opportunities for foreign investors.
In this article, we will explore the process and requirements for setting up a company in Switzerland as a foreigner, along with some important factors to consider while doing so.
You can find the process and prices for all legal forms on our page on company formation in Switzerland.
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Book a callHighlights
- robust economy, strategic location, and skilled workforce Switzerland’s are appealing
- EU/EFTA citizens Requirements vary significantly between and third-country nationals
- EU/EFTA setup involves a B permit, valid ID, and proof of self-employment
- Third-country nationals require special permits and detailed business plans
- Legal forms for Swiss companies include sole proprietorship, GmbH and AG
Content
- Setting up a company in Switzerland as a foreigner
- Check out our video on YouTube!
- Why set up a company in Switzerland?
- Can a foreigner set up a company in Switzerland?
- What are the requirements for setting up a company in Switzerland?
- Legal form of the company and its formation requirements
- How can foreigners start an online business in Switzerland?
- What are the options for starting a non-profit company in Switzerland as a foreigner?
- Opening a branch or subsidiary in Switzerland as a foreign company
- Tax considerations
- Accounting and administration
- Business banking in Switzerland
- What business insurance is required in Switzerland?
- What other factors should foreigners consider?
- Setting up a company in Switzerland?
- FAQ
Check out our video on YouTube!
Why set up a company in Switzerland?
Switzerland offers foreign entrepreneurs a wealth of benefits, including a strong economy with exceptional political stability, favourable tax rates, and access to European markets through a business-friendly regulatory environment. The country's strategic location, world-class infrastructure, and highly skilled workforce make it ideal for companies seeking reliable growth opportunities.
According to the U.S. State Department's 2024 Investment Climate Statement, "Switzerland consistently ranks as one of the world's most competitive economies" with over $1 trillion in cumulative foreign direct investment as of 2022.
Let’s explore the key advantages of setting up a company in Switzerland in more detail:
- Switzerland boasts a strong economy and infrastructure with a high standard of living, which makes it an ideal place to do business across most sectors.
- It offers a well-developed financial system with access to global markets.
- Switzerland has a favourable tax environment, especially for foreign companies earning most of their income internationally.
- Switzerland is renowned for its political stability, neutrality, and respect for the law, which provides a secure and reliable business environment.
- It is fast and simple to set up a company in Switzerland as a foreigner, and the entire process can be done online.
Calculate the costs of your company incorporation here.
Price calculatorCan a foreigner set up a company in Switzerland?
Foreigners can certainly establish a company in Switzerland; however, the regulations and requirements differ for European Union (EU)/European Free Trade Association (EFTA) citizens and so-called "third-country" nationals (individuals from non-EU/EFTA countries).
EU/EFTA citizens versus “third-country” nationals
EU/EFTA citizens benefit from the Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons, which allows them to establish a company in Switzerland under almost the same conditions as Swiss citizens. They are not subject to any additional restrictions and have the freedom to work and reside in the country.
In contrast, "third-country" nationals face stricter requirements and restrictions for setting up a company in Switzerland. They must fulfil specific conditions and criteria, and obtain the necessary permits to establish and operate a business in the country. Only well-qualified people from these countries are allowed to take up self-employment or start a company in Switzerland, and the specific country where they are from plays a role in their successful application.
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Price calculatorWhat are the requirements for setting up a company in Switzerland?
The requirements for setting up a company in Switzerland vary significantly depending on your nationality and residency status.
EU/EFTA citizens
It is quite simple for EU/EFTA citizens to enter Switzerland, live and work here, and even found their own company. Citizens from these nations only require a residence permit (B permit) to become self-employed in Switzerland and set up their own company. The more stringent settlement permit (C permit) is not required for EU/EFTA citizens to live and work in Switzerland.
To receive the B permit, the foreign national should report to their municipality of residence within 14 days of entering Switzerland and apply for a residence permit. The following documents are required:
- A valid identity card or passport
- Address in Switzerland
- Documents that confirm that they are or will be self-employed and capable of supporting themselves and/or their family. Any of the following documents are accepted: Company identification number (UID number) Entry of the company in the commercial register Entry into a professional register Social Security registration as a self-employed person A comprehensive business plan
If the requirements are met, the cantonal migration authorities will issue the residence permit, which is initially valid for five years, and can be renewed thereafter. It allows EU/EFTA nationals to work independently as self-employed persons or entrepreneurs throughout Switzerland.
Third-country nationals
Non-EU/EFTA citizens (third-country nationals) face more complex requirements for Swiss business establishment. Citizens from third countries do not automatically have the right to live, work, or set up a business in Switzerland, so they need to apply for special authorisation if they are not already permanent resident.
Applications are generally only successful if the person is well-qualified in a particular field. Examples include business executives, experienced specialists (doctors, engineers, etc.), qualified teachers of higher educational institutions with several years of experience, etc.
Citizens from third countries who have acquired a permanent residence permit/settlement permit (C permit) are generally allowed to stay and work in Switzerland as self-employed people. They may also qualify if they are married to a holder of a C Permit.
Those who do not hold a C Permit and are therefore not living in Switzerland as a permanent resident have no automatic legal right to self-employment. They must submit a special application to the cantonal authorities requesting the appropriate authorisation. The applicant should be able to provide credible proof that the company will have a lasting positive impact on the Swiss labour market. It is important to note that it is by no means easy to have such applications approved.
A comprehensive business plan is required to be able to demonstrate the positive effects that the company will have. The owner should also prove that they have sufficient start-up capital and the right organisational connections to other businesses. Finally, they must provide a certificate of incorporation or proof of being on the commercial register.
If the application is approved, the entrepreneur will be issued with either of the following two permits:
- L Permit: Short-term residence permit for third-country nationals that is valid for one year and can be extended by a maximum of 12 months.
- B Permit: Residence permit for third-country nationals that is valid for one year and can be renewed annually if the eligibility requirements are still met.
In both cases, the permit along with the appropriate cantonal authorisation allows them to legally work as a self-employed person in Switzerland or incorporate and manage a company.
Calculate the costs of your company incorporation here.
Price calculatorLegal form of the company and its formation requirements
The most common legal forms include Sole Proprietorship, Limited Liability Company (GmbH), and Joint-stock company (AG). Foreign entrepreneurs must choose the most suitable legal structure for their business needs. We will explore the main features of each of these along with the specific formation requirements that apply to them.
Sole Proprietorship
A sole proprietorship is the simplest and most straightforward legal form. It is suitable for small businesses operated by a single individual. A sole proprietorship is not a distinct legal entity from the one who forms it, so the business owner assumes full personal liability for the company's debts and obligations.
Foreign nationals need a residence and work permit in Switzerland to operate as a sole proprietor. As it does not involve the formation of a new legal entity, no further authorisations are needed beyond being allowed to work as a self-employed individual in Switzerland.
Limited Liability Company (GmbH)
A GmbH is a separate legal entity with limited liability for its owners. It offers a higher level of protection for the business owner's personal assets compared to a sole proprietorship. As a GmbH requires the formation of a distinct corporate entity, at least one managing director must reside in Switzerland (i.e., must have a valid residence and work permit). Other members may be non-residents. In the event that no director of your company is resident in Switzerland, Nexova offers a full director service and will be happy to provide you with a director.
In addition, authorisation must be obtained from the Cantonal authorities and all standard formation requirements of a GmbH must be met. This includes meeting the minimum share capital requirement of CHF 20,000 (of which at least 50% must be paid up) and drafting the Articles of Association, among other requirements.
Joint-stock company (AG)
A joint-stock company (AG) is another popular legal form in Switzerland, especially for larger businesses or those planning to go public. AGs offer limited liability protection to shareholders and allow for the issuance of shares to raise capital.
The basic requirements for foreign nationals to be able to incorporate an AG are similar to that of a GmbH. As with a GmbH, an AG requires at least one Swiss resident on the board of directors. The main differences in formation requirements are that an AG requires much higher start-up capital (CHF 100,000) and more extensive administrative effort. However, the minimum paid-in share capital requirement is either 20% of the registered share capital or CHF 50,000, whichever is larger.
Nexova offers a full director service and is happy to provide you with a board or managing director.
For more information, take a look at this post: Which legal form for my business?
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Book a callHow can foreigners start an online business in Switzerland?
Practically speaking, the process for setting up an online business in Switzerland as a foreigner is similar to setting up a physical business. Instead of finding physical premises or office space, you’ll have to register a domain name and set up your own website or other form of online presence.
The world of online business has grown rapidly in recent years, and Switzerland is certainly no exception. Switzerland lends itself well to the e-business model, thanks to its robust digital infrastructure and tech-savvy population. There are opportunities across a range of sectors, from e-commerce and digital services to fintech and more.
In fact, Switzerland has been ranked the most innovative country in the world for 14 years in a row, according to the 2024 Global Innovation Index by WIPO, which is a clear advantage for digital entrepreneurs and tech-driven ventures.
One of the major benefits of a fully online business is that it reduces overhead expenses such as rent and utilities. This is especially relevant in Switzerland where the cost of renting business premises is increasing significantly.Note: If you set up a legal corporate entity like a GmbH or AG, you’ll still need a registered physical address in Switzerland. It’s possible to make use of a virtual office provider in Switzerland who can provide you with a registered company address, as well as offer additional services such as answering phone calls and emails, receiving letters on your behalf, etc.
Calculate the costs of your company incorporation here.
Price calculatorWhat are the options for starting a non-profit company in Switzerland as a foreigner?
Non-profit organizations in Switzerland can be established through two primary legal structures: associations or foundations.
Association
Associations function similarly to other businesses in Switzerland, but they are not for profit. They can partake in commercial activities just like ordinary businesses, except that any revenue generated should be re-invested in the association or put towards the objectives it has defined in its founding documents.
To establish an association in Switzerland, a minimum of two legal persons is required (which can be either individuals or other legal entities). These individuals must draft statutes that outline the association's purpose, structure, decision-making processes, and other relevant details. The statutes must comply with Swiss law. Every association has a specific purpose or set of objectives, which can be related to social, cultural, sports, professional or other activities.
It is only required to enter into the commercial register if:
- It engages in commercial activities,
- Or is subject to auditing.
Foundation
In Switzerland, a foundation is a legal entity established to fulfil a specific purpose that is decided by the founder, often with philanthropic, charitable, scientific, or educational aims. The purpose of a foundation can also be to benefit a specific person or group of persons, which makes them ideal estate planning tools. They can be used as substitutes for conventional wills, often resulting in lower estate taxes and a faster and simpler inheritance process. Foundations are governed by Swiss law, primarily outlined in the Swiss Civil Code and specifically regulated by the Federal Foundation Supervisory Authority.
Foundations also need to be entered into the trade register and must have a minimum share capital of CHF 50,000.
Calculate the costs of your company incorporation here.
Price calculatorOpening a branch or subsidiary in Switzerland as a foreign company
Switzerland is one of the first choices for foreign companies looking to expand their operations abroad. This is no surprise, as Switzerland was ranked 1st globally for competitiveness in the 2025 IMD World Competitiveness Ranking, reinforcing its reputation as a top-tier hub for international business.
What is a branch office?
A branch office is a type of business entity that operates as an extension of its parent company but is in a different location or country. A branch office does not have its own independent legal identity and therefore always remains part of the parent company, subject to its control and direction.
The branch office engages in similar activities to the parent company and represents its interests in the foreign market in which the branch is based. Branch offices allow the parent company to access new markets, establish a physical presence, and conduct business locally without needing to incorporate a new legal entity.
What is a subsidiary?
On the other hand, a subsidiary is a distinct legal entity from its parent company. It has its own management and shareholders and is deemed to be a separate entity for legal, tax, and accounting purposes.
That said, the subsidiary is still connected to the parent company through some level of ownership and control. The parent company typically holds a significant share of ownership in the subsidiary, usually more than 50% of its shares. This ownership gives the parent company the power to exert control over the subsidiary’s operations and decision-making even though it is legally a separate entity.
Registering a branch or subsidiary in Switzerland
Even though a branch is not a separate legal entity, both a branch office and a subsidiary must be entered into the commercial register in Switzerland. For this they also need an authorised representative from the parent company who is a Swiss resident.
Additionally, subsidiaries need their own separate articles of association, must fulfil the same minimum share capital requirements as other Swiss companies, and go through the same incorporation process as opening a new business. A branch only needs certified copies of the parent company’s articles of association and evidence of the decision to open a branch in Switzerland, such as minutes from the board meeting where the resolution was passed.
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Book a callTax considerations
Foreign company owners in Switzerland face personal income tax (based on residence canton), corporate tax (profit and capital taxes), and VAT obligations, with rates varying significantly across cantons and municipalities.
Switzerland has a decentralised tax system, with cantonal and communal tax rates varying across different regions. It is important to consult with a tax advisor to understand the specific tax obligations based on the company's location and activities. Here are the primary tax considerations for foreign nationals who set up a company in Switzerland:
Personal tax
The personal tax rate for individuals in Switzerland depends on their canton of residence. Individuals are subject to progressive tax rates, with higher incomes attracting higher tax rates. Foreign nationals who become Swiss residents are liable to declare and pay personal income tax in Switzerland. Fortunately, Switzerland has almost 100 double taxation avoidance agreements (DTAAs) in place to prevent taxpaying foreign nationals from having to pay income tax in their home country too.
Corporate tax
Corporate entities such as an AG or GmbH must pay corporate tax in the form of profit and capital taxes. Corporate tax rates in Switzerland also vary based on the canton and municipality where the company is registered. Switzerland has a competitive corporate tax system, and certain regions offer preferential tax regimes to attract businesses. Profits generated by the company are subject to corporate income tax (profit tax) which is levied at the federal, cantonal, and municipal level, while capital tax is only levied at the cantonal and municipal levels. Dividends distributed to shareholders may also be subject to withholding tax.
VAT
Value Added Tax (VAT) is a type of consumption tax that is applied as a percentage of the final price paid by the consumer. All Swiss companies with an annual turnover exceeding CHF 100,000 must register for VAT.
In Switzerland, the standard VAT rate in 2025 is 8.1% (increased from 7.7% in January 2024); however, there are also reduced rates of 2.6% (some foodstuffs, books, newspapers, medicines, etc.) and 3.8% (hotel accommodation). There are also some zero-rated goods which are exempt from VAT. Value Added Tax applies equally to companies owned by foreign nationals.
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Book a callAccounting and administration
When opening a business in Switzerland as a foreigner, it’s vital to understand all the various legal and administrative requirements. A major part of this involves adhering to mandatory Swiss accounting and auditing requirements:
Basic accounting requirements
All businesses in Switzerland are legally required to maintain some form of records of their accounts for ten years. However, the level and complexity of the record-keeping differs depending on the size of the company, its legal form, and annual turnover.
The following types of businesses need to maintain full double-entry accounts in accordance with authorized Swiss accounting principles:
- All legal entities (GmbHs, AGs, associations, foundations, etc.)
- Sole proprietorships and general partnerships with a turnover of at least CHF 500,000 in the last financial year.
The following types of businesses only need to maintain records of their receipts and payments using the cash method of accounting (simplified bookkeeping) as well as their financial position (simple balance sheet):
- Associations that are not required to enter the commercial register (i.e., those that do not engage in commercial activities)
- Foundations exempt from mandatory auditing (as per Art. 83b.2 of the Swiss Civil Code)
- Sole proprietorships and general partnerships with a turnover of less than CHF 500,000 in the last financial year.
Auditing
All public companies (those listed on the stock exchange) are required to conduct an ordinary audit. In addition, companies who exceed two of the following three thresholds for two consecutive financial years also require an ordinary audit:
- Total assets of CHF 20 million or greater,
- Annual turnover of CHF 40 million or higher,
- An average of 250 or more full-time employees over the year.
An ordinary audit is typically conducted by an external auditor who is independent of the company being audited, and who is registered with the Swiss Federal Audit Oversight Authority (FAOA). It provides an extensive independent assessment of the accuracy, completeness, and transparency of a company's financial statements.
Most small and medium sized companies who do not exceed the aforementioned thresholds are subject to a limited audit. A limited audit (also known as a “review”) involves a less extensive examination of the company's financial records than an ordinary audit and is therefore less costly and time-consuming. In addition, the results of a limited audit do not need to be filed with the commercial register.
Finally, small companies with an average of less than 10 full-time employees over the year are allowed to entirely opt out of undergoing an audit if all the shareholders unanimously agree to this.
Business invoicing
In Switzerland, business invoices must comply with specific legal requirements to be considered valid for tax and accounting purposes. Here are the key elements that a business invoice in Switzerland should contain:
- Supplier’s name and address
- Purchaser’s name and address
- Supplier’s VAT number (same as UID number)
- Unique invoice number
- Date of delivery of the goods or services, as well as the date of the invoice
- Description of the goods or service
- Total fee amount
- The VAT rate applied and the VAT amount
- Signature (or digital signature)
Here you can easily calculate the costs of your accounting.
Price calculatorBusiness banking in Switzerland
If you set up a legal entity in Switzerland, such as a GmbH, AG, association, or foundation, one of the first things you’ll need is a separate bank account for your business. The bank account serves two main functions:
- Depositing the share capital required to register your company, along with any increases in the share capital in future. For this you will need to open a capital deposit account.
- Managing your company’s finances going forward.
While it is not mandatory to open a separate bank account as a sole proprietor or partnership, it is highly recommended to make it easier to keep track of your business finances and keep them distinct from your personal expenses.
Opening a corporate bank account
It can be difficult to open a bank account as a foreigner, even more so than starting a business in Switzerland. If none of a company’s owners reside in Switzerland, the company will not be given a bank account. It is therefore important that at least one of the owners is a Swiss citizen or permanent resident, or that an external company is appointed as a representative (director) in Switzerland to hold your company in trust. Click here for our director services.
In addition, you will have to provide information to the bank such as the company name, proof of registration, and details of the account signatories. Once your business is operational, the share capital which was previously blocked will be deposited into the current account. It is advisable to seek a reliable bank that offers various business services such as loans, financial advice, business insurance, and tailored investment products.
Capital deposit account
When setting up any legal corporate entity, there are certain minimum initial capital requirements which must be met. The starting capital must be deposited into a special blocked bank account known as a “capital deposit account” or “capital payment account”. The funds in the capital deposit account remain inaccessible until the incorporation process is complete, and they thus serve as proof that the company has deposited the initial minimum share capital required for incorporation.
Choosing the right bank for your capital deposit account is an important decision. There are various factors you should consider when comparing different banks, such as:
- Convenience: It is a good idea to choose a bank that allows you to open and manage your capital deposit account entirely online
- Cost: Compare the fees associated with capital deposit accounts across different banks. Look not only at the initial setup costs but also consider transaction fees and any ongoing maintenance charges.
- Speed and availability: Choose a bank that can process your capital deposit quickly and efficiently, minimizing delays in the registration process.
- Reliability: Seek out banks with a solid reputation for reliability and security. A reliable bank is less likely to pose complications or create uncertainties in the management of your capital deposit account.
- Additional services and support: Find a bank that offers its valued corporate clients useful services in addition to the capital deposit account.
- Flexibility: A bank that offers flexibility in terms of account management, fund transfers, and financial planning is crucial as your business grows and evolves.
Once the incorporation process is complete and the company has been entered into the commercial register, the funds in the capital deposit account become available and are transferred to the company’s current account.
Click here for more information on the ins and outs of opening a capital deposit account for your business.
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Book a callWhat business insurance is required in Switzerland?
Insurance requirements vary between mandatory and optional coverage. Protecting your company with the right types of business insurance is crucial to mitigate risks and safeguard your assets. Some types of insurance are compulsory, while others are optional. Here are some key types of insurance that businesses commonly consider in Switzerland:
- Public liability insurance: Protects against claims of property damage or bodily injury to third parties while on your business premises or due to your business activities. This type of insurance is not required by law in Switzerland, but is mandatory in some cantons for certain industries.
- Social insurance: Some level of social insurance is compulsory for all companies in Switzerland. It is a broad term comprising various types and levels of social insurance. Sole proprietors and partnerships must at least pay contributions for basic old-age and survivors' insurance (AHV), disability insurance (IV) and income compensation insurance (EO). Companies that employ staff must also register their employees with unemployment insurance (ALV) and accident insurance (UVG) and possibly the pension fund. However, employees whose weekly working hours with an employer are not at least eight hours are only insured against occupational accidents and occupational illnesses, but not against non-occupational accidents.
- Professional indemnity insurance: This insurance protects against claims of negligence, errors, or omissions in the professional services provided. It is optional but typically essential for service-oriented businesses.
- Property insurance: Covers damage or loss of physical assets, including buildings and/or their contents (inventory, equipment, and furniture), due to events like fire, theft, or natural disasters. With the exception of the obligation to insure against fire and natural hazards in some cantons, taking out property insurance is voluntary for companies everywhere in Switzerland.
- Business interruption insurance: This is an optional insurance which covers your lost income and other expenses arising out of an interruption to your business operations due to covered perils (circumstances beyond your control).
- Cyber insurance: Protects against losses resulting from cyber-attacks, data breaches, or other digital threats. It can cover costs related to data recovery, legal fees, and notification of affected parties.
- Directors’ and officers’ liability insurance (D&O): Protects directors and officers from personal losses in case of legal action alleging wrongful acts while managing the company.
- Product liability insurance: This insurance protects against claims arising from defective products causing harm or damage. It is recommended for businesses involved in manufacturing or selling products.
- Environmental liability insurance: Relevant for businesses with potential environmental risks, this insurance provides coverage for costs related to pollution cleanup and legal liabilities.
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Book a callWhat other factors should foreigners consider?
Company address
Swiss law requires companies to have a registered office address in Switzerland. This address will be used for official correspondence and must be a physical location where the company can be reached.
Nexova offers a wide range of services, such as renting domicile addresses in various Swiss cities.
Hiring staff
One of the most crucial factors to the success of any business is having the right team of employees. Whether you are a small startup or a large multi-national corporation, chances are you will need to hire the right staff for the work at hand, as well as understand the practical and legal requirements that go with it.
Where to find the right employees?
Switzerland has no shortage of talented workers, and there are countless ways to find qualified personnel. You may opt to search on jobseeker platforms and websites, advertise your vacancies online, use a recruitment agency, or go by word-of-mouth.
Visas and permits
Just like you need the right visas and permits to set up a company in Switzerland as a foreigner, if you opt to hire foreign workers, they too must have the legal right to work in Switzerland. As the employer, you are equally responsible for helping your foreign employees organize the correct work visas and permits.
Labor laws
Whether hiring foreign employees or Swiss residents, you will also have to adhere to basic Swiss labor laws, including health and safety guidelines, working hours, holidays, and pay rate. While there is no national minimum wage in Switzerland, many of the cantons have enforced their own minimum wages which must be followed.
Tax and social security
All foreign workers, even those without a C permit and who are not married to a Swiss citizen, are also required to pay income tax in Switzerland through pay-as-you-earn (PAYE). It is therefore your responsibility to deduct this from their wages and pay it to the Swiss tax authorities on your employees’ behalf.
In addition, you will have to register your employees for all mandatory social insurance and make contributions on their behalf. Typically, 50% of the contributions towards disability and unemployment insurance can be deducted from the employee’s gross salary while the rest is funded by the employer. Employees with an annual salary of more than CHF 22,680 (as at 2025) must also be registered for an occupational pension fund (2nd pillar). Here too, the employer covers 50% of the contributions.
Can foreign business owners purchase land and real estate?
Swiss law again differentiates between EU/EFTA nationals and third-country nationals for the purposes of purchasing land and real estate. Third-country nationals need a settlement permit C and must have their place of residence in Switzerland to be entitled to purchase land.
The Federal Act on the Acquisition of Land by Persons Abroad (aka Lex Koller) states that foreign nationals do not need any additional permit to purchase land and real-state for their business if they are already eligible to purchase land in Switzerland in a personal capacity.
Calculate the costs of your company incorporation here.
Price calculatorSetting up a company in Switzerland?
Setting up a company in Switzerland as a foreigner can be extremely rewarding due to the country’s favourable business environment, political stability, and strong economy.
While the process has more stringent requirements and restrictions for non-EU/EFTA citizens, it is certainly feasible with careful planning and compliance with the applicable regulations.
If you are looking to set up a company in Switzerland, it is advisable to seek professional guidance from legal and tax experts who can provide specialised advice based on your individual situation. Nexova AG has the right knowledge and expertise to guide you through the process of setting up a company in Switzerland as a foreign national.
We can help you navigate the legal, financial, and administrative aspects of company formation, ensuring compliance with the relevant laws and regulations.
We also offer the service of providing a representative for your company (managing director or board member) as well as renting a company domicile through us. Contact us today for a no-obligation consultation and find out how we can help you.
FAQ
Answers at a click
Yes, it’s possible to set up a company in Switzerland as a non-resident, but there are additional requirements. For example, a GmbH or AG must have at least one managing director or board member who resides in Switzerland. Therefore, if you don’t plan to live in Switzerland, you’ll need to appoint a Swiss resident as your representative. Nexova offers nominee director services to fulfill this requirement.
Third-country nationals face stricter requirements for establishing and operating a business in Switzerland compared to EU/EFTA citizens, including:
- Demonstrating significant qualifications or experience.
- Proving the business will have a lasting positive impact on the Swiss labor market and economy.
- Navigating complex permit applications to obtain an L or B residence permit.
Additionally, approval processes can be time-consuming, and applications are not always accepted, so thorough preparation is key.
Not necessarily. For many businesses, especially online ventures, a physical office isn’t technically required. However, your company must still have a registered physical address in Switzerland, which can be arranged through a virtual office service. Nexova can provide you with a registered company address in Switzerland, as well as offer additional services such as digital and physical mail forwarding.
Yes, you can begin hiring your team of employees the moment your business is established, but it’s vital to ensure full compliance with Swiss labor laws. This includes sound employment contracts, social insurance registration, and adherence to minimum wage laws in applicable cantons. If you are hiring foreign workers, you must ensure they have valid work permits and assist them in obtaining these if needed.
Nexova handles all the paperwork and application processes (including notarization) fully digitally to optimize speed and convenience for our customers. We make sure that your documents are prepared, notarized and submitted to the commercial register within a few short days.
Thereafter, the entry into the commercial register typically takes around 1 – 2 weeks depending on the turnaround time of the commercial register office in the canton where the company is registered. The processing time of the commercial register office is out of our hands.
Yes, while foreigners generally have the freedom to set up a business in any industry, certain sectors like real estate or agriculture may have additional restrictions, especially for third-country nationals, due to laws governing property ownership or industry-specific licensing (e.g., foreign non-residents looking to acquire property in Switzerland must comply with Lex Koller).
Yes, businesses can expand their operations to Switzerland by establishing a branch office or a subsidiary. Both options allow foreign companies to operate in Switzerland, but they differ in key ways:
- Branch office: A branch is an extension of the parent company, not a separate legal entity. It operates under the control of the parent company, and its obligations and liabilities are directly tied to it. However, while opening a branch office doesn’t require you to incorporate a new company, it must still be registered with the commercial register in Switzerland.
- Subsidiary: A subsidiary is an independent legal entity incorporated in Switzerland. Although it is usually owned or controlled by the parent company (by means of majority share ownership), it has its own management, liabilities, and legal obligations.
Choosing between a branch and a subsidiary depends on factors like tax strategy, operational independence, and regulatory requirements. If you’re unsure which option suits your business goals, consulting a professional like Nexova can help you make an informed decision.
Yes, to begin with, a capital deposit account is required for entities like a GmbH or AG to deposit the initial share capital. Once the incorporation process is complete, the funds in the capital deposit account become available and are transferred to the company’s current account, which is used to manage ongoing business finances. If none of the company owners reside in Switzerland, appointing a Swiss resident director or representative is necessary to open the account.
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Jörg BuckmannManaging Director, BUCKMANN GEWINNT+Uncomplicated or serious? Or is it and? A young, clever team is at work here, offering excellent services, highly uncomplicated and competent. Instead of a prestigious reception, expensive offices and chocolates, there are fast services and competent services. For me as a one-man company, this is exactly what I need.
Florian JauchCo-Founder, Arvy AGArvy AG has found an exceptional partner in Nexova AG. Their very high level of expertise in FINMA-regulated industries ensures that our financial transactions are in safe and competent hands. What sets Nexova apart is their flat-rate pricing structure, which has helped us greatly with budgeting and financial planning. As a company committed to long-term success and integrity in investments, we are very satisfied with the services provided by Nexova AG.
Patrick RissiCo-Founder, Brainiegroup GmbHFor us as an EdTech startup, it is very important that our trustee is as digital and agile as we are. With Nexova AG, we have found the perfect partner who can actively support us in our growth.
That’s what our customers say
Your feedback matters
5.0 stars
- Marc Perren
Mr. Merz has a very broad knowledge and was able to help me with all my questions. The conversation was very pleasant and very informative for me. Thank you for your support.
- Jörg Buckmann
Uncomplicated or serious? Both here. A young, smart team is at work here, offering excellent services, highly uncomplicated and competent. Instead of a prestigious reception area, expensive offices and a few small gifts, you offer fast and competent services. For me as a one-man company, this is exactly what I need.
- Martin Gerber
I have been a Nexova customer for some time now and so far I am very satisfied! Thanks to the digital working methods and high responsiveness of the client managers, little time is lost in the daily process in particular. The prices are also very fair. Nexova handles the annual financial statements for me, including the tax balance sheet. The processes are standardized, which is a great advantage for audits (AHV and taxes). The two founders are two young, innovative guys and very serious.
- Florian Kreidler
The friendly and competent Nexova employee was able to answer my questions about company car taxation quickly and specifically. Thank you very much for this!
- Reto S
When I founded my company a year ago, I needed a reliable fiduciary partner. In addition to pure accounting, Nexova also offers me very good advice on all aspects of labor law. Thanks to the E-Post solution, I no longer even have to worry about my company mail and can focus purely on my service activities. My contacts at Nexova are always very friendly and pleasant to deal with. The complete package is simply TOP and I can only recommend Nexova!
- Pascal Zumstein
Top company & friendly owners. A highly recommended trustee.
- Seb Ur
Very good and competent advice!
- Louis Revel
Very satisfied with the work done and the service provided in terms of quality and price. I highly recommend
- David Leu
Professionally at a very high level. They are very good with Excel and could also support us with automation of processes.
- Stefan Burgener
I had a few questions about remote work and was advised super and free of charge. Thank you very much!
- Luca Märki
Very good service. Good and competent advice with friendly staff. I can definitely recommend
- Edward Buchanan
The Nexova team is very professional and I felt they always had my best interests at heart. I highly recommend Nexova and will continue to refer my clients to them and trust them with my business.
- Juliam Pantano
I am impressed with their outstanding service, especially in the field of accounting services, they demonstrate a professional approach and exceptional attention. As a lawyer, I have found Nexova to be a valuable partner in the financial world.
- Marie Ospina
I had an excellent consultation with Nexova AG regarding withholding tax. Their expertise is remarkably extensive and their guidance was invaluable, I highly recommend their services. A first class experience.
- Alan SchuetzFebruary 8, 2023
The Nexova Team is an important partner to our startup, enabling us to pass all of our accounting, tax and payroll duties. We specially value their expertise with Startups and flexibility, which allows us to plan and manage our financials effectively and to focus on the bottom line of our operations.
- Raphael H.April 7, 2023
We are very satisfied with Nexova as our trustee. Thanks to the Teams group chat, I can always count on very fast response times (of a few minutes). The Teams Chat group is great. With our old trustee, we had to write mails and always had to wait a long time for an answer and on top of that we were charged for every little question. Fortunately, this is not the case with Nexova.
- Philip ReckFebruary 25, 2023
Nexova solved my problem with a non-paying tenant quickly and efficiently. I was simply overwhelmed with the situation and glad for the competent legal advice. Nexova handled everything from the reminder with threat of termination, to representation in court, to the police eviction quickly, efficiently and also inexpensively. Many thanks for the valuable help.
Independence Statement: Nexova AG is an independent private fiduciary firm. We are not a government agency or authority, and we are not affiliated with any government department or official register. All official acts, registrations, and approvals are carried out solely by the competent Swiss authorities and notaries.
Read our full Independence Statement