GmbH Basic
CHF 590
What is included
- Personal legal consultation
- Defining business purpose
- Business name check
- Preparation of founding documents
- Drafting the bylaws
- Notary fees
- Commercial register filing support
- VAT consultation
Establish your LLC in Switzerland with Nexova
- Free initial consultation
- Fully digital service
- Attractive prices
Prices for establishing an LLC
Our all-inclusive launch packages
Additional costs (excluded)
| Signature certification (per signature) | CHF 20 |
|---|---|
| Commercial register fee | approx. CHF 500 |
What is an LLC?
The most popular legal structure for Swiss SMEs
The Limited Liability Company (GmbH) is a popular legal structure in Switzerland, suitable for both small and medium-sized businesses. It is an independent legal entity, where liability is limited to the company's assets.
A minimum capital of CHF 20,000 is required for its formation, which must be fully paid in. An LLC is established upon registration in the commercial register. Like the corporation (AG), the formation must be notarized.
Is an LLC the right choice for you?
Flexibility meets financial security
The limited liability company (GmbH) is ideal for entrepreneurs who want to combine flexibility with the protection of personal assets. It is especially suitable for startups and SMEs that focus on growth, stability, and legal credibility.
Unlike a sole proprietorship or a general partnership, the LLC has limited liability, meaning your personal assets are protected from business risks. However, establishing an LLC involves more administrative effort and costs compared to setting up a sole proprietorship or a general partnership. A minimum capital of CHF 20,000 is required, which must be fully paid in before registration.
An LLC is ideal when:
You want to separate your personal finances from business obligations.
Your business or startup needs a legally structured framework to convince customers, investors, or partners.
You want to expand your business while retaining control over its management.
You want to take advantage of tax benefits, such as splitting income between salary and profit distribution.
You are planning international business activities and prefer a legal structure with higher acceptance abroad.
Book a free initial consultation with our experts.
Book a callWhy establish an LLC in Switzerland?
Versatile benefits of an LLC in Switzerland
Limitation of liability
Your personal assets remain protected, as business risks are clearly separated from private finances.
Flexibility
A GmbH can be converted into an AG without liquidation, allowing easy adaption for business growth.
Straightforward formation
With a minimum share capital of just CHF 20,000 and a clearly structured formation process, the GmbH is easily accessible.
Free choice of name
You can freely choose the company name as long as it includes the suffix "GmbH" to indicate the legal form.
Tax advantages
Profits can be distributed, and owner salaries recorded as business expenses to optimize taxes. Capital gains from sales are tax-free under certain conditions.
Credibility
GmbHs enjoy greater respect from clients, partners, and investors than sole proprietorships due to their limited liability and clear structure.
Book a free initial consultation with our experts.
Book a callHow does an LLC limit your liability?
The GmbH safety net
One of the biggest advantages of an LLC is the limitation of liability to the company’s capital. This means that shareholders are not personally liable for the liabilities of the LLC. Their financial risk is limited to the amount of their share capital contribution, while the LLC itself is fully liable for its obligations.
How does liability work?
As an LLC shareholder, your personal assets remain protected, as your liability ends with your contribution. Since this contribution must be fully paid in at the time of incorporation, LLC shareholders are protected from personal liability.
Are there exceptions?
Exceptions to the limitation of liability exist only if explicitly stated in the articles of association of the LLC, for example, in the form of additional contribution obligations. However, such obligations can only exist within clearly defined limits and must be established in advance. Personal liability may also arise in cases of violations of legal duties, such as tax evasion or gross negligence.
Book a free initial consultation with our experts.
Book a callThe legal forms in Switzerland at a glance
In the initial consultation, we provide free advice on the optimal legal form
Book a free initial consultation with our experts.
Book a callRoad to establishing an LLC
With Nexova AG, setting up your LLC is simple
Initial consultation
In a free video call, we clarify the entire founding process and your individual requirements.
Capital provision
Deposit the minimum share capital of CHF 20,000 into a capital deposit account.
Creating the formation documents
Our team will create all the necessary formation documents, including the articles of association.
Sign documents
You review and sign the formation documents conveniently online.
Notarization
The documents are notarized and then submitted to the commercial register office for registration.
After the formation
We offer comprehensive support with VAT registration, social security contributions, and other legal and accounting requirements.
Book a free initial consultation with our experts.
Book a callStarting an LLC as a Foreigner?
Nexova provides you with comprehensive support
Starting a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in Switzerland as a Foreigner is simple with the right support, provided all criteria are met.
Every Swiss LLC must have at least one managing director who resides in Switzerland. If you don’t have a resident representative, Nexova can provide a local director as part of our comprehensive director services.
An LLC is also legally required to have a registered business address (domicile address) in Switzerland. This address is used for official correspondence and must be a physical location where the company can be contacted. If your LLC does not have a physical presence in Switzerland, Nexova offers domicile address rental to ensure you meet your legal obligations.
Do you need more information about the director services?
Book a callHow can Nexova help you establish your limited liability company?
Nexova ensures a smooth and legally compliant setup
Strategy
Receive tailored advice on choosing the right business structure, adapting your business to Swiss regulations, and understanding tax and liability obligations. Our experts customize their advice to your goals and business model.
Execution
Nexova handles all administrative aspects and frees you from tedious bureaucracy. From creating documents and providing VAT advice to your commercial register filing, we ensure that every step is carried out correctly, saving you time and avoiding stress.
Ongoing support
Nexova is there for you even after registration. We assist with VAT registration, social security contributions, and all other ongoing administrative requirements, ensuring that your business remains compliant with the law and well-organized.
Book a free initial consultation with our experts.
Book a callWhat makes Nexova stand out?
Choosing the right partner for your business formation is key to success.
Broad experience
Nexova’s deep knowledge of Swiss regulations minimizes risk and maximizes efficiency for new businesses.
Personalized advice
We prioritize your goals, tailoring guidance to fit your unique business needs.
Flexibility
Our services adapt to your budget and schedule – perfect for freelancers, SMEs, and global businesses alike.
Fully digital
Nexova’s digital process lets you manage everything remotely, no office visits or paperwork needed.
Highly efficient
We ensure a fast, smooth process, helping you start your business without delay.
Complete trust
Nexova values long-term relationships, providing confidential, transparent, and integrity-driven service.
Book a free initial consultation with our experts.
Book a callDiscover our expert articles
Up-to-date knowledge for your business
November 11, 2026 | David Merz
Limited Audit in Switzerland: Definition, Criteria and Process Explained
The limited audit is the statutory audit that applies to most Swiss AGs and GmbHs. It covers every company that is too small for an ordinary audit and has not waived the audit altogether. The auditor reviews the annual accounts and reports to shareholders, which gives owners, banks and investors a basic level of comfort. In this article, we explain what a limited audit is and who needs one. We then cover what the auditor examines, how the process runs, what the report says and what it costs.
October 28, 2026 | David Merz
How to Change Your Auditor in Switzerland: Steps, Timing & Checklist
Companies change their audit body (Revisionsstelle) for practical reasons: fees, service, growth or a conflict with the firm that keeps their books. The law allows it, but how easy it is depends on when you act. This article explains when you can change your auditor, the steps between election and register filing, how long it takes, what happens to the audit files and what it costs. We also provide a practical checklist to help you through the process of changing your auditor in Switzerland.
September 23, 2026 | David Merz
The Revisionsstelle Explained: What a Swiss Statutory Audit Body Does and When You Need One
Every Swiss AG and GmbH is required to have a Revisionsstelle (audit body) unless it has completed a valid opting-out. It sits alongside the general meeting and the board as one of the company's governance bodies, and its job is to tell shareholders whether the accounts can be trusted. This article explains what the Revisionsstelle is, what it examines, what its report actually says, who is qualified to hold the mandate, and how the body is appointed and replaced.
August 11, 2026 | David Merz
What Is a Statutory Audit in Switzerland? A Guide for SMEs and Startups
A statutory audit is the independent check of your company's annual accounts required under Swiss law. But not every company needs one, and many can avoid it entirely. What applies to your company depends mainly on its size and structure. This article explains what a statutory audit involves, who has to get one, and the difference between an ordinary and a limited audit. We'll also look at when small companies can skip the audit entirely, what changed under the law in 2025, who's allowed to act as your auditor, and how to keep the process efficient.
August 4, 2026 | David Merz
Ordinary or Limited Audit in Switzerland? Key Differences, Thresholds & Requirements
Which type of statutory audit applies to your Swiss company has real implications for cost, process, and how your financial statements are perceived by external stakeholders. This article explains who is required to undergo which type of audit, what each one actually involves, how they compare side by side, and what growing companies need to know as they approach the legal thresholds.
April 21, 2026 | David Merz
Internal Audit in Switzerland: Definition, Tasks & Goals Explained
Internal audit is one of the most effective tools a company has for staying in control of its own operations. By independently reviewing processes, risks, and controls from within, it gives management a clear, unfiltered view of what is working, and what isn’t. This article explains what internal audit is, how it differs from the statutory external audit required under Swiss law, what the legal obligations are for Swiss companies, and how SMEs can put internal audit to practical use.
March 31, 2026 | David Merz
Audit Costs in Switzerland: What Does a Limited Audit Cost?
Most Swiss AGs and GmbHs are legally required to have their annual financial statements audited. For the vast majority of SMEs, this entails a limited audit; a streamlined review that's less intensive and less expensive than a full ordinary audit. Yet audit costs remain one of the most common questions business owners ask when planning their annual compliance budget. This article covers what a limited audit costs in Switzerland, the key factors that drive pricing, how limited and ordinary audits differ, and practical steps you can take to keep your audit costs manageable.
February 18, 2026 | David Merz
Switzerland's New Transparency Law (TJPG): What Companies Must Know
Switzerland is introducing the Federal Act on the Transparency of Legal Entities (TJPG), a new law requiring companies to report their beneficial owners to a central register. This represents one of the most significant compliance changes for Swiss businesses in recent years, affecting nearly all AGs and GmbHs. This article explains who must comply, what information must be reported, key deadlines, and penalties for non-compliance. Whether you're a startup founder, an established SME, or managing a foreign entity with Swiss operations, understanding these obligations is essential for maintaining legal compliance.
December 15, 2025 | David Merz
The OECD Minimum Tax: What Swiss Businesses Need to Know About the 15% Global Tax Floor
The global tax landscape shifted dramatically when Switzerland joined over 140 countries in implementing the OECD minimum tax—a 15% floor ensuring multinational enterprises pay minimum tax wherever they operate. For large multinationals, this represents the most significant change to international tax rules in decades. This article examines what the OECD minimum tax means for Swiss businesses, how Switzerland implemented it following a 2023 referendum, which companies are affected, and what the future holds after the US withdrawal.
November 19, 2025 | David Merz
Coordination Deduction 2025: Complete Guide for Swiss Employers and Employees
Understanding the “coordination deduction” is vital for proper pension planning in Switzerland. The CHF 26,460 deduction (as of 2025) directly affects how much of your salary gets insured under the second pillar. This seemingly minor technical detail can have a major impact on retirement security and presents challenges for part-time workers and those with multiple employees. This guide covers everything you need to know about the coordination deduction: what it is, how it's calculated, whether employers can waive or reduce it, its impact on part-time workers and multiple job holders, and the implications of the failed BVG 21 reform.
Trusted by over 250 companies
Discover the diversity of our customers
Jan LichtenbergCEO, InSphero AGAs an internationally active biotechnology company that stands for innovation and the highest quality, we work exclusively with partners who meet our high standards. Nexova consistently impresses us with exceptional service quality, robust processes, and an impressive pace. The professional, solution-oriented, and efficient collaboration allows us to fully focus on our core business. Additionally, we would like to highlight the remarkable cost savings of 35% compared to in-house accounting. We particularly appreciate how Nexova quickly understands, develops, and promptly implements complex requirements – both within Switzerland and at our international subsidiaries. We can wholeheartedly recommend the Nexova team.
Pascal Willoughby-PetitCEO, TheLearning LAB GmbHNexova AG offers highly professional accounting services that have significantly enhanced our financial management at Learning Lab. Their team is precise and reactive, always delivering accurate and timely reports while promptly addressing our queries. With Nexova AG’s support, we manage our clients’ accounts and finances more efficiently. We highly recommend Nexova AG for their exceptional accounting services.
Marco BurgerCEO, Le Café Bar GmbHFor us as a new catering company, it is essential that our trustee understands our specific needs and responds flexibly to our requirements. In Nexova AG, we have found the ideal partner who supports us competently in all fiduciary matters and actively promotes our growth.
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
103 reviews
- 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.
Trusted by Swiss local businesses
Facts and figures
5.0 stars
103 reviews
5
Languages
26
Cantons
250
Clients
Dedication
FAQ
Answers at a click
To establish a limited liability company (GmbH) in Switzerland, you need at least one shareholder, which can be either a natural or a legal person. A minimum capital of CHF 20,000 is required, which must be fully paid into a capital deposit account before registration.
The process includes drafting and notarizing the articles of association and the deed of incorporation, as well as registering the company in the commercial register. Additionally, all tax and social security obligations must be fulfilled. Nexova supports you through every step to ensure all requirements are reliably met.
A GmbH provides limited liability, protecting the personal assets of shareholders from company debts—an advantage not offered by sole proprietorships or partnerships. Furthermore, a GmbH allows for clear allocation of shares among multiple shareholders, offering flexibility in ownership structure, as well as potentially greater credibility with business partners, clients, and investors. Nexova helps you evaluate the benefits of a GmbH compared to other legal forms and make an informed decision.
No, GmbH shareholders benefit from limited liability, meaning their personal assets are protected from company debts. However, in rare cases, such as illegal conduct or gross negligence, personal liability may arise.
Yes, foreigners can establish a GmbH in Switzerland. However, the law requires at least one person residing in Switzerland to represent the company, such as a managing director. This individual must have a valid residence and work permit and must be registered as an authorized representative in the commercial register.
If no shareholder meets this requirement, a resident managing director can be appointed. Nexova offers comprehensive support for foreigners, including nominee director services, ensuring compliance with Swiss laws and regulations.
GmbHs in Switzerland are subject to profit tax at the federal, cantonal, and municipal levels, as well as cantonal capital tax. If your annual turnover exceeds CHF 100,000, you must register for VAT (value-added tax) and regularly account for it. Nexova advises you on your tax obligations and ensures that your GmbH complies with all legal requirements.
Yes, ownership of a GmbH can be transferred through the sale of shares. However, the transfer may require the approval of existing members. Nexova advises you on the process of buying and selling GmbH shares to ensure a smooth transition.
Establishing a GmbH in Switzerland typically takes 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the opening of the capital deposit account, the availability of a notary, and the processing time of the commercial register. With Nexova, you benefit from a fully digital process without in-person appointments, saving time compared to many competitors and making the process more efficient.
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