What we do
We assist businesses with private services that support setting up their presence in Switzerland. This includes supporting business owners with navigating the complex processes involved in company formation, such as preparing documentation, opening a Swiss bank account, business address services, Nominee Director services, Tax optimization, virtual offices, and mailing solutions.
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Why should you choose SIGTAX
At SIGTAX, we help entrepreneurs with the practical steps involved in setting up a business presence in Switzerland, including office addresses, mail handling, and workspace solutions. While we provide guidance and support, all official company incorporation procedures are carried out by the competent Swiss government authorities.”
Taxation for Swiss Companies
In Switzerland, businesses can choose from different legal structures depending on their activities and goals. Each structure has specific requirements, which are defined by Swiss law.
For official information about company types and tax regulations, please consult the Swiss government or a licensed tax advisor.
In Switzerland, certain company structures may be subject to different tax treatments depending on cantonal and federal regulations. Specific exemptions and rates can vary and are determined by the competent tax authorities
In Switzerland, investment companies may be subject to different tax rules at the cantonal level, depending on the nature and size of their investments. These rules are defined by Swiss tax legislation and vary between cantons
In Switzerland, management companies may be subject to specific tax rules that vary depending on the type and source of their revenues. Regulations can differ across cantons and are determined by the competent tax authorities
In Switzerland, joint ventures may be subject to different tax rules depending on their structure and activities. Specific deductions or treatments are determined by applicable tax laws and can vary across cantons.
In Switzerland, principal companies may be subject to special tax rules for activities conducted abroad. The treatment of such activities is determined by federal tax authorities and may vary depending on the company’s structure and operations
Tax rates differ between Swiss cantons, and this may affect the conditions for entrepreneurs in establishing a company. For personalized guidance on this topic, it is recommended to consult the competent cantonal authorities or a licensed tax advisor.
AG (Aktiengesellschaft)
The Swiss Aktiengesellschaft (AG) is commonly used for larger business structures. It has a similar structure to a corporation, with share capital divided into shares.
The Swiss GmbH
The Swiss GmbH is often chosen by small and medium-sized businesses. Shareholders are liable only up to their contributions. This structure is based on mutual trust and accountability among associates.
The sole proprietorship
The Swiss authorities require sole proprietors to submit their documents once annual turnover exceeds the legal threshold.
The Swiss verein
A Swiss Verein is a legal form comparable to a voluntary association under U.S. law. It allows groups of firms to operate under a common brand while retaining their status as separate legal entities. This form is commonly used by international professional service networks.
Swiss holding companies
Holding companies in Switzerland are primarily established to manage long-term shareholdings in subsidiaries. Their tax treatment is regulated under cantonal and federal law..
Management companies
These companies are typically part of multinational groups. They are structured to manage activities outside Switzerland while maintaining an administrative presence in the country..
Mixed companies
Mixed companies are often used by groups with international operations. Their activities in Switzerland are secondary compared to their global operations. The allocation of taxable profit depends on the proportion of Swiss versus international activities.
Partnerships
Partnerships in Switzerland include general partnerships, which require at least two resident individuals with a shared business purpose, and limited partnerships, where at least one partner has unlimited liability while others are liable only up to their contributions.
Types of companies incorporated in Switzerland
The Swiss Aktiengesellschaft (AG) is commonly used for larger business structures. It has a similar structure to a corporation, with share capital divided into shares.
The Swiss GmbH (limited liability company) requires a minimum share capital of 20,000 CHF and at least one shareholder. Liability is limited to the capital contribution. Shareholders’ names are recorded in the Swiss Commercial Register.
A sole proprietorship may be established by a private individual who is a resident of Switzerland. No minimum capital is required. Registration in the Swiss Commercial Register is mandatory if annual turnover exceeds 100,000 CHF.
A general partnership consists of at least two individuals, both of whom must be Swiss residents. Partners share liability for the obligations of the partnership.
A limited partnership is formed by at least one partner with unlimited liability and one or more partners whose liability is limited to the contribution they have made.
Steps for company formation
- Preparing shareholder documents.
- Opening a blocked capital account with a Swiss bank.
- Depositing the required share capital.
- Receiving the capital certificate from the bank.
- Establishing an official recognized office in Switzerland.
- Signing incorporation documents before a Swiss notary and submitting them to the Government authorities
- Collecting the official business documents from the Swiss Authorities
- Maintaining statutory records in accordance with Swiss law.
Why should you open a company in Switzerland?
- A competitive and stable economy within Europe.
- A taxation framework that may include incentives depending on company structure and location
- Well-developed infrastructure supporting business operations.
- A regulatory and legal framework generally regarded as business-friendly.
- An educated and skilled workforce.
- Double taxation treaties signed with multiple countries.
- Stable monetary policies and a long-established banking system.
Company formation in
Compliance Disclaimer
Disclaimer: We are a private consulting service provider and are not a government authority, nor affiliated with any government department. SIGTAX assists with the incorporation and company formation processes; however, official decisions and documents are issued solely by the respective government authorities. Government fees, processing times, and outcomes are determined by those authorities.