Multinational companies in Switzerland
The Swiss business environment is perfect for multinational companies (MNCs).
The Swiss corporation (AG)
The legal form for a Swiss corporation is the “Aktiengesellschaft” (AG), which is governed by the Swiss Code of Obligations. This type of company is best suited for multinational corporations looking to expand their activity on the Swiss market.
Open a company branch in Switzerland
Branch offices are commercially self-governing firms that are part of a larger corporation. Foreign companies are allowed to set up branch offices in Switzerland. These should be dependent on the headquarters, therefore they are not legal persons. They have limited commercial independence, and are entitled to operate in a similar line of work to the parent company in order to form a complete commercial entity with it.
Incentive programs for small businesses in Switzerland
Switzerland is offering one of the most competitive business environments, not only on European level, but also globally. This is a consequence of the business – friendly strategy adopted by the Swiss government.
Double Taxation Treaty between Switzerland and USA
The United States of America and the Swiss Confederation have signed a convention regarding the avoidance of double taxation concerning income taxes, which became effective on January 1 1998.
Swissness Act enters into force in January 2017
Products and services offered by Swiss companies enjoy a very good reputation on global level, due tot positive references on quality, authenticity and precision regarding products “made in Switzerland”.
Status of foreign workers in Switzerland
A quarter of the staff employed in Switzerland is made up of foreigners. They are the holders of a work permit and a residence permit. For foreigners who want to invest and operate their own business in Switzerland or managers of foreign companies, especially those firms generating jobs, getting the residence permit and the work permit is not a problem.
The Swiss Commercial Registry
The Commercial Registry (“Handelsregister” in German or “Registre du Commerce” in French) provides most of the public information a foreign entity would have to know when doing business with a Swiss company.
Managing intellectual property rights from Switzerland
Most global companies that are leaders in their respective fields choose to manage and practice their intellectual property rights from Switzerland.
Increased quota for work permits in Switzerland
The Swiss government has decided to increase the quota for visas issued to skilled workers who are citizens of non – EU member countries. The new quota is set to be applied starting with 2017, raising the number of visas from 6,500 to 7,500.