Company formation

Choosing where to set up a business in Europe often comes down to taxes, ease of setup, workforce flexibility, and market access. Switzerland ranks 2nd globally for overall competitiveness (IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook 2024), outpacing Germany (15th), the UK (23rd), France (31st), and Italy (41st). But how does Switzerland truly compare with Europe’s largest economies when it comes to company formation?

Switzerland is a top choice for businesses looking to expand across borders, thanks to its strategic location, strong financial system, and business-friendly tax policies. With corporate income tax rates ranging from 11.9% to 21.0%, depending on the location, it offers a competitive edge for multinational companies aiming to optimize their tax strategies. This article breaks down the key policies, practical considerations, and strategies to help businesses navigate cross-border tax planning in Switzerland.

Switzerland offers more than just a prime business location—it’s a gateway to Europe’s largest markets. With over 500 million consumers within a few hours’ reach, your business gains immediate access to a thriving economy. Add to that 73,000 km of roads and 5,200 km of railways, and you have a logistics network designed for speed and reliability. Ready to make Europe your next success story? Discover why Switzerland is the perfect starting point.

In Switzerland, only 3% of businesses fail—a rare level of stability in today’s unpredictable markets. For non-EU entrepreneurs, this means a reliable environment in which to grow and succeed. With its low taxes, thriving innovation hubs, and strategic global connectivity, the country opens many doors for entrepreneurs looking to make their mark. Whether you’re seeking a gateway to European markets or a supportive environment for scaling your business, it delivers the tools and stability to help you thrive. Here’s why your next business move should start in Switzerland.

Switzerland is a global leader in arbitration, offering businesses a neutral and reliable environment for resolving disputes. This is especially valuable for industries like commodities trading and international law, where stakes are high and conflicts often cross borders. When entrepreneurs form companies in Switzerland, they gain access to this respected arbitration network. But, what’s the history and reputation of Swiss arbitration? What are the full benefits, and how can you set up a company here to take advantage of them?

The rise of Distributed Autonomous Organizations (DAOs) is changing how organizations govern and operate. By using smart contracts, DAOs remove the need for traditional hierarchies, encouraging transparency and group decision-making. But can you form a DAO in Switzerland, and do they legally exist in this country? Read on to learn more.

As borders blur and the global competition for talent intensifies, France is taking a thoughtful approach to stand out. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and strong economy, the country is opening its doors to skilled professionals from all corners of the globe. One of the key efforts behind this push is the "International Talents and Economic Attractiveness" initiative. Read on to learn more about this program.

If you’re eyeing a business in Switzerland, you’re on the right path. Switzerland is home to many companies in finance and pharmaceuticals, and it’s rapidly becoming a top spot for startups and innovation. In fact, it was ranked first globally for innovation by WIPO in 2023. But to truly succeed, understanding Swiss business culture and etiquette is essential.

Switzerland is known for its strong economy and business-friendly environment, consistently ranking among the world’s best-performing economies. To keep this reputation, the country regularly updates its regulations to stay in step with global trends and ensure a smooth business climate. In this effort, the Swiss Federal Council has introduced changes to the VAT law that will take effect on January 1, 2025. These changes will let Swiss companies registered for VAT choose to report annually, remove the need for foreign taxpayers to have a fiscal representative, and make directors share responsibility for VAT debts.

Switzerland may be part of the Single Market but operates independently of the European Union (EU). This independence allows Switzerland to set its VAT rates free from EU regulations. If you plan to do business in Switzerland, understanding the country’s VAT rates and regulations is essential for smooth operations. In this post, we’ll walk you through the essentials of Swiss VAT—covering the current rates, how foreign companies can register for VAT, and essential compliance and invoicing requirements in Switzerland.