Company Formation Switzerland

SET UP A BUSINESS IN SWITZERLAND TODAY!

Introduction to Swiss Incorporation

Switzerland is undoubtedly one of the most attractive countries in the world in which to live, work, and run a business. It offers a combination of political and economic stability, a clean and safe environment, and comparatively low personal and corporate tax rates. But the tax regime, whilst relatively benign, is quite complex. If you want to make sure your organisation is structured in the most tax-efficient way, please contact us for more information.

What are the main types of Swiss company formation?

Company Formation Switzerland offers two major types of business entity for foreign investors, as follows:

	Limited Liability (Sàrl)
	Corporation (SA)

What are the main features of a Sàrl?

	Mainly used for small to medium sized businesses
	Minimum share capital is 20,000 Swiss Francs (€12,320)
	No restrictions on foreign ownership
	Minimum of two people required to establish the business
	One of the directors must be a Swiss resident

What are the main features of an SA?

	Mainly used for medium to large sized businesses
	Minimum share capital is 100,000 Swiss Francs (€61,600)
	At least 50% of share capital to be paid up
	Shareholders can remain completely anonymous
	Majority of board directors must be Swiss residents

Is Company Formation Switzerland a complicated process?

Switzerland has its fair share of bureaucracy, but it is arguably easier to set up a business in Switzerland, rather than in major EU countries such as Italy, Germany, France or the UK. Everyone, including foreigners, can set up a business in Switzerland. The formalities of company incorporation Switzerland include the following:

	Nominating a Swiss director; required by Swiss laws
	Preparation of memorandum and articles
	Opening a Swiss bank account
	File with the Registrar of Companies

Swiss Incorporation

How easy is it to recruit staff in Switzerland?

Even though Switzerland has one of the lowest unemployment rates in Europe, at around 4%, you will not have any problems recruiting the right people for your business. The workforce is well educated and highly skilled, with over 80% of the labour pool in possession of a secondary diploma or vocational training. Switzerland has three major official languages – French, German and Italian – and English is widely used. The country has an advanced recruitment sector and we will be happy to help you if you require advice on this.

What is the regulatory environment like?

Swiss authorities do their best to ensure that business regulation is as light as possible, but it should be noted that companies are subject to canton (state) as well as federal laws. Cantons have regulatory and taxation powers of their own, and they differ from one canton to another, so expert advice is essential. We have local specialists on standby to guide you through everything you need to know about company registration Switzerland.

What about banking facilities?

Swiss banks represent the last word in efficiency and discretion, managing about a third of the world’s private assets and most international financial institutions have a base here. So when it comes to selecting a bank for your newly-opened business, you will be spoiled for choice.

To what extent are Swiss banks regulated?

In a word – heavily. In recent years the Swiss authorities have introduced strict regulations to guard against money laundering and to ensure compliance with international standards. The banks here face heavy due diligence requirements and are very cautious in dealing with new clients. They prefer new clients to be introduced by people they already know and trust. That’s why it makes sense to open a bank account with the help of our local Swiss experts.

Company Registration Switzerland

Are there financial incentives available for Swiss company formation?

Not much official support for investment is available at federal level for Swiss company formation. The Government does, however, support infrastructure investment, such as tourist facilities, communications and training establishments, with subsidised loans of up to 25%. At cantonal level, it is possible to qualify for other kinds of support such as rent subsidy, waiving of work permit requirements, tax holidays up to 10 years, cheap energy and so on, making company registration Switzerland an attractive proposition.

How can I get more information on Company Formation Switzerland regulations?

We have made Company Formation Switzerland very simple. All you need to do is contact us and we will provide you with all the help you require to set up a business in Switzerland as quickly and profitably as possible.