Step-by-Step Guide to Opening a Business in Switzerland: Legal Forms, Registration, and More

Opening a business in Switzerland involves following a well-defined process. Among the main steps are the selection of the legal form and registration in the commercial register.

Le entreprises.chyou will benefit from tailored support to set up your business.

Choose the legal form of the company

The first step is to decide the legal structure suitable for your project. The main options are:

• Individual reason
• Limited liability company (SARL)
• Limited company (US)

Your choice depends on factors such as:

• The number of companions
• Starting capital
• Responsibilities and risks
• Taxes

A comparison of the main legal forms in Switzerland

Individual purpose1 No minimum No limitSARL1 or more CHF 20,000 limitedSA1 or more CHF 100,000 limited

Legal status	Number of participants	Minimum capital	Responsibility

A solicitor or trustee will assess which structure is best for you based on your circumstances.

Write the statutes and register in the commercial register

Once the legal form is selected, you pull up the standards of your company. This official document includes information such as:

• Name and address of head office
• The purpose of the company
• Amount of share capital (for SARL or SA)
• The identity of the founders and the persons authorized to represent the company

You then enter a Membership application of your company with the commercial register of the relevant canton. The application includes in particular:

• The signed statutes
• Identity documents of the founders
• Proof of capital deposited in a bank account (for SARL and SA)

Once the file is verified, your company will officially exist and can begin its operations.

Open a business bank account and get start-up capital

Opening a professional bank account it is essential for any company in Switzerland. This account is used for:

• Receive capital contributions from partners
• Make and receive activity-related payments
• Establish clear accounting

Each bank has its own conditions for opening a professional account (fees, minimum deposit, etc.). Compare offers to find the one that meets your needs.

For capital companies (Sàrl, SA), the bank blocks the start-up capital minimum required by law on an account in the name of the company being created. He gives a capital certificate be attached to the application for registration in the commercial register.

The partners can invest the capital in cash or in other materials (property, equipment, securities, etc.), after an assessment by an approved auditor.

Register with social insurance and tax authorities

As soon as your company hires employees, even part-time, you must announce this to the various social insurance :

• AVS/AI/APG compensation fund
• Family allowance
• Assertive Accidents (LAA)
• Occupational pension plan (LPP)

You pay social security contributions (employer and employee share) to these organizations, according to the wages paid.

Register as a new employer

AVS/AI/APG 30 days after first employee is hired Registration form to be requested from AVS compensation fundLAABBefore starting the activity Contact accident insuranceLPP3 months after commencement of liability Join a procurement institution

Confirmation	Date of publication	Form / Contact

From a tax perspective, your business must register with:

• From the cantonal and municipal tax administration for profit and capital tax
• From the federal tax administration for VAT (if the turnover exceeds CHF 100,000)

The tax authorities will send you every year a tax deduction to be completed, based on your account and annual balance sheet.

Find properties and get the necessary permits

Your business must suitable premises to carry out its operation. You can :

• Buy or rent offices, workshop, warehouse, etc.
• Set up your home headquarters (subject to conditions)
• Choose a coworking space

Make sure that the property chosen complies with the safety and hygiene standards in effect. Some activities (food, crèche, etc.) are subject to special rules.

Key licenses and permits are required

• Permission to build or change the use of a building
• License to operate (for some regulated sectors)
• Permission for outdoor signs and advertising
• Permit for terrace (food)

Contact your city’s building permit department and economy department to find out what steps to take.

Hire workers and issue compulsory insurance

If your business needs it workersYou must:

1. Download written contract work
2. Make sure the employee has a valid work permit (for foreigners)
3. Register the employee with social insurance
4. Prepare salary slips and monthly or quarterly statements

As an employer, you have a duty protect health and safety of your employees. In particular, you must:

• Assess risks and implement preventive measures
• Inform and train employees about workplace safety
• Organize a health and safety solution at work (occupational doctor, etc.).

Finally, you make a deal on the compulsory insurance For your business:

• Business Liability (RC) Insurance
• Fire and natural elements insurance
• Business interruption insurance
• Other special insurance according to needs (vehicles, machinery, etc.)

a lot companies offer insurance packages suitable for SMEs and independents.