Businesses operating or aspiring to operate in Switzerland must stay updated about its evolving culture, regulations, and economy. Understanding these changes allows you to adapt your business strategy proactively and succeed in the Swiss market. Read to learn some of the recent shifts in taxation, immigration policies, industry regulations, and consumer behavior
Last year, Switzerland introduced a new law, the "blockchain law". The implementation of this law will follow two stages: the first which already occured on the 1st of February, and the other to eventuate in August. Invoked on the 1st of February were reforms on company law. In the second phase in August, the State will put into effect upgrades of the financial market infrastructure. These will allow Switzerland to have a properly managed cryptocurrency industry where all actors are fully informed of the opportunities & risks associated.
All countries in the EU and Switzerland, are part of the VAT legislation requirements. And many other countries around the world have similar VAT systems. According to Swiss legislation, foreign companies need to be registered for VAT, but some companies can be part of an exception in case of services that they provide.
The Swiss government has gone the extra mile in leveraging low corporate tax rates as a competitive advantage. In Switzerland, corporate tax rates vary depending on the canton where you are operating your business.
On the 19th of May 2019, Swiss voters voted in favour of the Federal Act on Tax Reform and AHV Financing (TRAF)—confirming the corporate taxation reform. The main purpose of the reform is to bring tax legislation in line with international standards and to remove Switzerland from the EU “Grey List”, which it has been in since December 2017. This list includes states that are under EU control and have agreed to cooperate to improve the tax system.
Gift tax is a specific kind of taxation existing in Switzerland. This kind of taxes usually levy on gifts received by the swiss residents and can vary from each Cantone. Luckily, not all gifts are taxable in Switzerland. Gift taxes were imposed by the government in order for heirs to stop avoiding taxation, in case they receive an immovable property or great amount as an inheritance. The gift tax almost applies to every Canton except for Schwyz and Lucerne, these Cantons are tax exempted under the swiss legislation. But many locals believe that a gift tax is unfair and as for many countries such a definition is don’t even exist.
Accounting principles for virtual currencies in Switzerland, regarding the blockchain technology, categories of tokens and the incorporation of companies using cryptocurrencies as capital contributions.
The Swiss Federal Tax Administration has issued a circular letter containing guidelines for tax deductions related to the costs of equity incentives. Find out what these new regulations are and if they are applied by all Swiss cantons.
