Taxes in Switzerland are levied at federal, cantonal and local level. Dividends and interests are a subject of the withholding tax, at a rate of 35%, however the withholding tax can be deducted in full, under certain conditions.
In June 2016, the Swiss parliament passed the final corporate tax reform package meant to strengthen Switzerland as a competitive business location for foreign companies or entrepreneurs. The tax reform plan (CTR III) includes several tax reform measures related to the federal and cantonal tax laws.
The Swiss VAT system follows the European VAT Directive. Nevertheless, there are some important differences that need to be addressed, especially when it comes to foreign suppliers of goods and services
A management company is best suited to meet the needs of international groups or corporations. The management company operates mainly outside Switzerland, although it may receive part of the income from Switzerland.
Mixed companies are corporations that have most of their business activity abroad and any business activity conducted in Switzerland is considered only of secondary nature. Both Swiss and foreign shareholders may have a dominant influence on a mixed company, which means that foreign citizens are allowed to open mixed companies in Switzerland.
The Swiss federal Council and the Government of the United Arab Emirates decided to conclude a Convention in regard to the avoidance of double taxation with respect to taxes on income. The UAE is one of Switzerland’s most important economic partners in the Middle East, therefore a double taxation convention is meant to enhance bilateral economic relations between the two countries.
