How to Start a Company in Switzerland: A Step-by-Step Guide for International Founders
Everything you need to know about incorporating a Swiss company as a foreign entrepreneur — from preparation to commercial registry entry.
Can a Foreigner Start a Swiss Company?
Yes. Switzerland allows non-resident foreign nationals to incorporate and wholly own a Swiss company. There is no nationality or residency requirement for shareholders. The only residency-linked requirement is that at least one person authorised to represent the company (director or managing director) must be resident in Switzerland — a requirement easily fulfilled through a Swiss resident director service. This openness has made Switzerland one of Europe's most accessible jurisdictions for international founders.
Step 1: Define Your Structure and Strategy
Before incorporation, clarify your business purpose, target market, and the corporate structure you need. Decide between GmbH and AG based on capital availability, governance preferences, and market positioning. Determine the canton of registration — each canton has its own commercial registry and slightly different procedures (and fees). Consider whether you need a Swiss resident director, a domicile address, and whether the company will conduct operational activities in Switzerland or serve primarily as a holding or service entity.
Step 2: Prepare Founding Documentation
You will need: notarised articles of association (public deed of incorporation), a declaration of acceptance of office for directors, a registered office confirmation from the domicile provider, passport copies for all founders and directors, and, for an AG, a depository confirmation from a Swiss bank for the paid-in capital. For GmbH incorporation, the capital must be deposited with the company and confirmed in the notarisation process. Our team coordinates with Swiss notaries to handle documentation efficiently.
Step 3: Notarisation and Commercial Register Filing
The articles of association must be notarised by a Swiss notary public. For international founders who cannot travel to Switzerland, notarisation can often be arranged through a Swiss consulate abroad or via power of attorney executed in the founder's home country (with apostille) and processed by the Swiss notary. Once notarised, the application is filed with the cantonal commercial registry, which reviews the documentation and, upon approval, publishes the registration in the Swiss Official Gazette of Commerce (SHAB).
Step 4: Post-Registration Essentials
After registration: open a Swiss corporate bank account (your company now exists and can be presented to the bank), register for VAT if turnover exceeds CHF 100,000 annually (or voluntarily if lower), enrol in the cantonal social insurance scheme for employee coverage, and set up your accounting system compliant with Swiss Code of Obligations requirements. Our Complete Swiss Setup package covers every step from notarisation through to bank documentation and accounting onboarding.
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