Accounting & Tax Services in Switzerland

From monthly bookkeeping to annual accounts and corporate tax returns — we keep your Swiss company fully compliant so you can focus on your business.

Swiss Accounting Requirements

Every Swiss company — whether an AG, GmbH, or branch office — must maintain proper books and prepare annual financial statements in accordance with the Swiss Code of Obligations (Art. 957-963b CO). These requirements apply regardless of company size.

Annual accounts must include a balance sheet, profit and loss statement, and notes to the financial statements. Companies exceeding certain thresholds (CHF 20 million in revenue, 250 employees, or CHF 40 million in assets) are subject to an ordinary audit. Smaller companies can opt out of a full audit if all shareholders agree, but a limited review may still be required.

Non-compliance can result in fines, personal liability for directors, and issues with tax authorities. Having a qualified accounting partner ensures you meet every deadline and reporting standard.

What We Handle for You

Bookkeeping

Monthly or quarterly bookkeeping in Swiss GAAP or IFRS. We process your invoices, receipts, and bank statements, and maintain a clean, audit-ready general ledger.

Annual Accounts

Preparation of statutory financial statements, including balance sheet, P&L, and notes, ready for submission to the commercial register and tax authorities.

Corporate Tax Returns

Federal, cantonal, and communal tax returns prepared and filed on time. We optimize your tax position within the legal framework, leveraging Zurich's competitive tax environment.

VAT Reporting

Quarterly VAT returns, including net tax rate method and effective method. We handle VAT registration, reporting, and correspondence with the Federal Tax Administration (FTA).

Payroll Administration

Monthly salary processing, social security contributions (AHV/IV/EO/ALV), withholding tax calculations for foreign employees, and annual salary certificates.

Tax Advisory

Strategic tax planning, transfer pricing advice, holding structures, and double tax treaty optimization. Practical guidance from a lawyer with Big Four experience.

The Swiss Tax System at a Glance

Switzerland has a three-tier tax system: federal, cantonal, and communal. The federal corporate income tax rate is 8.5% on profit after tax. Cantonal and communal rates vary significantly — the effective combined rate in Zurich is approximately 19.7%, while cantons like Zug or Nidwalden can be as low as 12%.

Capital tax is levied on equity at the cantonal level only. Dividends received from qualifying participations (at least 10% ownership) benefit from the participation exemption, reducing the effective tax burden for holding companies substantially.

Switzerland has over 100 double taxation treaties, making it an excellent base for international businesses. Proper tax structuring from the start can save your company significant amounts over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the tax return deadline for Swiss companies?
The standard deadline for corporate tax returns in the canton of Zurich is September 30 of the year following the financial year-end. Extensions are available upon request — typically up to November 30 or even later. We handle all extension requests as part of our service.
Does my company need an audit?
If your company exceeds two of the following thresholds in two consecutive years — CHF 40 million in assets, CHF 20 million in revenue, or 250 full-time employees — an ordinary audit is required. Below those thresholds, a limited audit (review) is standard. Companies with fewer than 10 full-time employees can opt out of any audit entirely if all shareholders agree (opting-out).
Can I handle accounting remotely from abroad?
Yes. Many of our clients are based outside Switzerland. We manage the entire accounting process digitally — you provide documents via a secure portal or email, and we handle the rest. Quarterly review calls ensure you stay informed about your company's financial position.
What does accounting cost for a Swiss company?
Costs depend on the volume of transactions, the complexity of your business, and whether you need payroll administration. A small holding company with minimal transactions might cost CHF 2,000-4,000 per year, while an active trading company could be CHF 6,000-15,000 or more. We provide a clear quote after understanding your situation.

Learn More

Finance

Tax Advantages of a Swiss Company

Ecosystem

Related Services

Fiscal Representation & VAT

VAT registration and fiscal representation for non-resident companies in Switzerland.

Explore

Swiss Bank Account

Open a corporate bank account in Switzerland with full documentation support.

Explore

Registered Office

Premium Zurich business address at Seefeldstrasse 69, 8008.

Explore
Your Expert

ALEX ROHRER.

Founder & Managing Partner of Rohrer Consulting. Corporate and tax lawyer with Big Four experience. Alex personally oversees every client engagement, providing direct expert counsel from initial consultation through to completion.

Background

Corporate & Tax Law, Big Four International Consulting

Location

Seefeldstrasse 69, 8008 Zurich

View Full Profile
AR
Founder

Need Accounting Support for Your Swiss Company?

Get in touch for a free consultation. We will review your situation and provide a clear, transparent proposal.

Request a Quote