Company Formation in Switzerland
Register an AG, GmbH, holding, or branch office in Switzerland with full legal support. From drafting the articles of association to opening the bank account — one lawyer manages the entire process.
Start Your CompanyWhy Switzerland?
Switzerland consistently ranks among the world’s most competitive economies. Its political stability, strong rule of law, extensive double-taxation treaty network (over 100 countries), and skilled multilingual workforce make it an exceptional base for international business.
The Swiss tax system is unique: federal, cantonal, and municipal taxes combine to create effective corporate tax rates between 11% and 21%, depending on the canton. Cantons like Zug, Schwyz, and Nidwalden are known for low rates, while Zurich offers a balance of moderate taxation and access to Switzerland’s largest talent pool and financial infrastructure.
Rohrer Consulting handles every step of the formation process. As a qualified lawyer with Big Four experience, Alex Rohrer provides the legal oversight that corporate service brokers simply cannot. You work directly with one expert, not a sales team.
Choose the Right Legal Form
AG (Aktiengesellschaft) — Corporation
The gold standard for larger enterprises, holding structures, and businesses seeking to raise capital. Shareholders are not listed in the Commercial Register, providing privacy. Minimum capital: CHF 100,000 (50% paid in).
Learn more about AG formation →GmbH (Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung) — LLC
The most popular form in Switzerland. Ideal for SMEs, consulting firms, and subsidiaries. Simple governance, lower capital requirement. Minimum capital: CHF 20,000 (fully paid in).
Learn more about GmbH formation →Holding Company
Swiss holding companies benefit from the participation exemption, effectively eliminating tax on dividends and capital gains from qualifying subsidiaries. Typically structured as an AG or GmbH with a holding-specific purpose clause.
Branch Office (Zweigniederlassung)
A foreign company can register a branch in Switzerland without incorporating a separate legal entity. The branch is subject to Swiss taxation on its Swiss-sourced income and must appoint a Swiss-resident representative.
Learn more about branch registration →Formation Timeline
A typical company formation takes 2–4 weeks from engagement to Commercial Register entry. Here is what happens in each phase:
Week 1: Planning & Drafting
We agree on the entity type, canton, company name, business purpose, and capital structure. We draft the articles of association and shareholder agreements. KYC documentation is collected.
Week 2: Capital Deposit & Notarisation
The share capital is deposited into a blocked escrow account at a Swiss bank. The founding deed is executed before a Swiss notary (in-person or via power of attorney).
Weeks 3–4: Registration & Activation
The notary files the incorporation with the Commercial Register. Once the entry is published (typically 3–7 business days), the capital is released, and the company is fully operational. We assist with bank account activation, VAT registration, and social insurance enrolment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a foreigner form a company in Switzerland?
Yes. There are no nationality restrictions on owning or founding a Swiss AG or GmbH. However, at least one person authorised to represent the company (board member for AG, managing director for GmbH) must be resident in Switzerland. We provide nominee director services to meet this requirement.
Which canton should I choose?
The choice depends on your tax optimisation goals, industry, and practical needs. Zug offers some of the lowest corporate tax rates (around 12%). Zurich provides access to the largest financial and professional services ecosystem. Geneva and Vaud are preferred by francophone markets. We advise on the optimal canton based on your specific situation.
Do I need to visit Switzerland to form a company?
Not necessarily. The founding deed requires notarisation, but you can grant a power of attorney to our firm to appear before the notary on your behalf. Capital deposits and KYC can also be handled remotely with proper documentation. Many of our international clients never visit during the formation process.
What are the total costs of forming a company?
Total costs include the share capital (CHF 20,000 for GmbH, CHF 50,000–100,000 for AG), notary fees (CHF 1,500–3,000), Commercial Register fees (CHF 600–800), and our legal fees for managing the process. We provide a detailed fee schedule upfront with no hidden costs. Contact us for a tailored quote.
Should I form a new company or buy a shelf company?
If speed is your priority and you need a company operational within days, a shelf company is the better choice. If you want full control over the articles of association, capital structure, and canton from the start, a new formation gives you more flexibility. Both options result in a fully legitimate Swiss company. We help you decide based on your timeline and requirements.
Supporting Services
Branch Registration
Register a branch office of your foreign company in Switzerland.
Bank Account Opening
Corporate bank account setup at leading Swiss banks.
Registered Office
Zurich business address for your newly formed company.
Nominee Director
Swiss-resident director to meet local representation requirements.
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.
Corporate & Tax Law, Big Four International Consulting
Seefeldstrasse 69, 8008 Zurich
Let’s Build Your Swiss Company
Book a free consultation with Alex Rohrer to discuss the right structure, canton, and timeline for your business.
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