TaxOpening a ZAZ Account in Switzerland

Opening a ZAZ Account in Switzerland

Establishing a ZAZ deferred payment account is an essential step for businesses regularly importing goods into Switzerland. This account allows companies to streamline customs payments and ensure compliance with Swiss tax and customs regulations.

What is a ZAZ Account?

A ZAZ (Centralized Settlement Procedure) account is a system managed by the Federal Office for Customs and Border Security (FOCBS). It simplifies the customs clearance process by centralizing duty and VAT payments for regular importers and haulage firms.

Who Needs a ZAZ Account?

Businesses that:
• Regularly import goods into Switzerland.
• Aim to streamline their customs payments and simplify reporting.
• Handle large volumes of international trade and require an efficient settlement system.

How to Set Up a ZAZ Account

To open a ZAZ account, you must provide the following:

1. Membership Declaration:
   Complete and submit the registration declaration to join the ZAZ system.
   2. Security Deposit or Guarantee:
   Choose one of the following options:
   • General Guarantee: Issued by a Swiss bank or insurance company under FINMA supervision.
   • Cash Deposit: Direct payment without interest.
   3. Direct Debit Authorization (optional):
   Required if you choose direct debit (LSV/CH-DD B2B) for payment.

   Security Requirements

   • The security amount is calculated as follows:
   • Customs Duties: 50% of the average duty for two weeks.
   • VAT:
   • 20% of VAT for registered entities.
   • 100% of VAT for non-registered entities.
   • Minimum security:
   • CHF 15,000 for large transactions.
   • CHF 2,000 for businesses outside Switzerland.

   Security amounts must be rounded up to the nearest CHF 1,000.

   Additional Information

   • Processing Time:
   After submitting all required documents, FOCBS issues the ZAZ account number, making the account operational.
   • Electronic Access:
   Once the account is active, businesses can manage documents electronically.

   Benefits of a ZAZ Account

   1. Simplified customs clearance for regular importers.
   2. Efficient duty and VAT settlement processes.
   3. Compliance with Swiss customs regulations.

   For further assistance in opening a ZAZ account, consult VALCORP team of VAT compliance specialists in Switzerland.

Contact us:

E-mail: info@valcorp.eu

Phone: +372 55658650