11.08.2022
As a seasoned professional, you are considering relocating your company to Switzerland or starting a new business in Switzerland. You have entrepreneurial experience and know your way around in principle. Therefore, you ask yourself specifically what would be different in Switzerland than in Germany, for example.
The essentials „in Swiss“
Switzerland, too, it makes sense to first develop a business plan. This supports the feasibility and viability analyses. If external financing is required, the business plan also helps in negotiations with investors.
With regard to the foundation in the narrower sense, the question of the legal form in which the company will be founded must be clarified in advance. In Switzerland, founders usually opt for a stock corporation „Aktiengesellschaft“ (minimum capital CHF 100,000), a limited liability company „GmbH“ (minimum capital CHF 20,000) or a sole proprietorship „Einzelfirma“.
The effort involved is manageable. Essentially, the following documents must be prepared for a „Aktiengesellschaft“ or „GmbH“:
After the company capital has been paid into the foundation account of a bank and the company has been entered in the commercial register, the company is established.
Extras for a foundation from abroad
In the case of an „Aktiengesellschaft“, it must be noted that at least one member of the board of directors must be resident in Switzerland and he must be authorized to sign.
In the case of a „GmbH“, the same applies to the management. At least one managing director must be resident in Switzerland and authorized to sign.
The requirements for founding a company for EU citizens are basically fulfilled by the work and residence permit. EU and EFTA citizens have a legal right to be admitted to the Swiss labor market. The examination of the documents for the residence permit is the responsibility of the cantons.
Important in international relations
Particularly in the case of company relocations from abroad, but also in the case of start-ups, it is important that at least part of business activities actually take place in Switzerland. Essential management functions, central staffs, eventual research and development should be located in Switzerland. In this context, it is helpful to obtain rulings from the tax authorities to create legal certainty. Otherwise, there is a risk of double taxation.
Additional boost from attractive environment
Companies in Switzerland benefit from the business-friendly environment, political and social stability, high supply of qualified employees, low taxes and high quality of life, and much more.
In particular, the cantons in Central Switzerland, above all the Canton of Zug, are highly attractive for entrepreneurs and companies. Taxes in Central Switzerland are particularly low and the authorities live a business-friendly attitude.
Adcoras accompagnies you to Switzerland
Adcoras shows individual ways. We advise you on all aspects of setting up a company. This includes, for example, the assessment of business models, advice on the legal foundation, accounting, tax advice, social security advice. Contact us for an appointment to get to know us.
