It is also known for its pharmaceutical, watchmaking or tourism industries, but it has also recently positioned itself as an important hub for startup businesses in the fields of fintech or cryptocurrency.

Start-ups are well and truly booming: in 2020, in spite of the pandemic, a record-breaking 46 842 new businesses were registered in Switzerland, according to Le Temps. However, launching is business is no mean feat and requires a huge financial and time commitment. Before taking the leap, think about which legal form is best for you.

The legal forms available to new companies formation in Switzerland are:

• Sole trader/proprietorship – start-up legal costs of around 130-190 CHF*;
• General partnership (SNC) – start-up legal costs of around 290-370 CHF*;
• Limited liability company (Sàrl/GmbH) – start-up legal costs of around 4000-9000 CHF*;
• Public limited company (SA/AG) – start-up legal costs of around 6000-12000 CHF*.

Tax system of Switzerland:

• Corporate income tax rate – the overall tax rate may vary from 11.9% to 21.6 % as you need to pay federal and cantonal taxes. The exact rate depends on the place of incorporation.
• VAT rate – 7.7 %
• Withholding tax rate (for non-residents) – may vary for 1) dividends –between 0 and 35 %, 2) interests – between 0 and 35 %, 3) royalties – 0%

• A favorable tax regime: Switzerland has a good tax regime for companies, which includes low corporate taxes and attractive tax incentives for research and development.
• A highly educated workforce: The workforce in Switzerland is among the best educated in the world. This is a crucial factor when deciding where to incorporate your company.
• A stable political and economic environment: Switzerland is a rugged country with a strong economy. This makes it an ideal place to incorporate your business.
• A favorable business environment: Switzerland ranks highly in various business environment measures, such as the World Bank’s “Doing Business” report and the Heritage Foundation’s “Index of Economic Freedom.”
• Access to European markets: As a member of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), Swiss companies have access to the European Single Market of 500 million consumers.

For company formation in Switzerland, the following documents will be required:

• Your Company Name
• The Director/s full name, date of birth, address and nationality
• The Shareholder/s full name and address

• Proof of identity. Either passport, national identity card, photographic driving licence
• Proof of residential address. Gas/electricity bill or credit/debit card bank statement dated within the last 3 months

Full spectrum of corporate services

We will assist you with all required formalities in order to format your Switzerland company.

We provide full spectrum of corporate services from start to finish. Our service includes the following:

Company incorporation in Switzerland

• Tax & Accounting services
• Licensing
• Legal and business consulting
• Legal advice & more