Buy a Shelf AG in Switzerland
Acquire a ready-made Swiss corporation (Aktiengesellschaft) and start doing business within 24–48 hours. Every shelf AG in our portfolio is verified, debt-free, and managed by a qualified lawyer.
Request Available AGsWhat Is a Shelf AG?
A shelf AG is a pre-registered Swiss corporation (Aktiengesellschaft) that has been incorporated, entered into the Commercial Register, and then held “on the shelf” without conducting any business activity. When you purchase a shelf AG, the shares are transferred to you, and the company’s board of directors is updated to reflect your chosen management structure.
The AG is the most prestigious Swiss corporate form, favoured by international businesses, holding structures, and companies seeking to raise capital. It requires a minimum share capital of CHF 100,000, of which at least CHF 50,000 must be paid in. Unlike forming a new company, a shelf AG gives you immediate access to an entity with an existing Commercial Register number and legal history.
Time to transfer ownership and update the Commercial Register
Minimum share capital of a Swiss AG (50% paid in)
Every shelf AG is audited for liabilities before sale
Why Buy a Shelf AG Instead of Forming a New One?
Speed
Registering a new AG takes 2–4 weeks including notarisation, capital deposit, and Commercial Register entry. A shelf AG is already registered. The transfer of shares and board changes can be completed within 24–48 hours.
Established Legal Entity
Some contracts, tenders, and banking relationships require a company with an existing registration date. A shelf AG provides that history. This can also be helpful when applying for regulatory licences.
Simplicity
There is no need to draft new articles of association from scratch, open a capital deposit account, or attend a notarised founding assembly. We handle the share transfer agreement, board resolutions, and Commercial Register updates.
Clean Track Record
Our shelf companies have never traded. They have no debts, no tax liabilities, no employees, and no pending disputes. We provide a full due diligence package before the sale.
The Purchase Process
Buying a shelf AG through Rohrer Consulting follows a straightforward, lawyer-managed process:
- 1
Initial Consultation
We discuss your business objectives, preferred canton, and whether an AG is the right structure. You receive a list of available shelf companies with their registration details.
- 2
Due Diligence & KYC
We verify the buyer’s identity and beneficial ownership structure. Simultaneously, we provide a due diligence report confirming the shelf AG is free from liabilities.
- 3
Share Transfer & Board Changes
The shares are transferred via a written assignment. Board resignations and appointments are executed by board resolution. We can also amend the company name and purpose if needed.
- 4
Commercial Register Update
We file the changes with the cantonal Commercial Register. Depending on the canton, this is typically processed within 1–3 business days.
- 5
Handover
You receive all corporate documents, the share register, board minutes, and access credentials. Optional services like bank account opening, registered office, and nominee directorship can be arranged in parallel.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a shelf AG cost?
The total cost includes the purchase price of the shelf company (which covers the paid-in share capital of at least CHF 50,000), our legal fees for managing the transfer, and any notarisation or Commercial Register fees. Prices vary depending on the age, canton, and share capital of the entity. Contact us for a detailed quote.
Can I change the name and purpose of the shelf AG?
Yes. The company name and stated business purpose can be amended as part of the transfer process. This requires a resolution of the general assembly and an amendment to the articles of association, which we prepare for you. The change is effective once entered in the Commercial Register.
Do I need to be a Swiss resident to buy a shelf AG?
No. Foreign nationals can own 100% of a Swiss AG. However, at least one member of the board of directors must be a Swiss resident with individual signatory authority. We offer a nominee director service to fulfil this requirement if you do not have a local representative.
Is the shelf AG truly debt-free?
Yes. Every shelf AG we sell has been dormant since incorporation. We provide financial statements, tax clearance confirmation, and a legal representation that the company has no outstanding liabilities, employees, or pending legal proceedings.
What is the difference between an AG and a GmbH?
The AG (corporation) has a minimum capital of CHF 100,000 and allows anonymous share ownership (bearer shares have been abolished, but registered shares can be held through nominees). The GmbH (LLC) requires only CHF 20,000 capital but publishes shareholder names in the Commercial Register. The AG is typically preferred for larger businesses, holding structures, and situations requiring investor privacy.
Complete Your Setup
Nominee Director
Swiss-resident director to meet legal domicile requirements for your AG.
Bank Account Opening
Open a Swiss corporate bank account without visiting Switzerland.
Registered Office
Premium Zurich business address for your company registration.
Accounting & Tax
Ongoing bookkeeping, annual accounts, and tax filings for your AG.
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
Get Your Shelf AG Today
Contact Alex Rohrer for a list of available shelf AGs and a personalised quote. Free initial consultation.
Request Available Companies