Setting up a company in Switzerland is a clearly regulated and well-structured process, provided the right steps are understood. This article explains how company formation in Switzerland works, how to choose the appropriate legal form, and what to consider when registering with the Commercial Register. An ideal guide for professionals supporting clients with company formations or corporate changes.
1. Choosing the right legal form
The first step in company formation in Switzerland is selecting the appropriate legal form. This choice affects liability, capital requirements and administrative duties. The most common options are:
- Sole proprietorship: simple setup, no minimum capital, personal liability.
- LLC: CHF 20,000 share capital, limited liability, clear structure.
- Ltd.: CHF 100,000 share capital, strong credibility, suitable for growth.
For trustees, lawyers and consultants, structured guidance at this stage is key.
2. Defining the company name and purpose
When starting a company, the name and purpose must be clearly defined. The company name must not be misleading and must comply with legal requirements. For corporations, name availability must be checked in advance.
3. Paying in the capital
To set up a GmbH or AG in Switzerland, the share capital must be paid into a blocked capital account. The bank issues a confirmation, which is required for registration with the Commercial Register.
4. Public notarization
The formation of an LCC or Ltd. requires public notarization. This includes articles of association, incorporation documents and authorized signatures. Digital workflows significantly reduce coordination effort.
5. Registration with the Commercial Register
The final formal step in company formation in Switzerland is registration with the Commercial Register. The company legally exists only after official publication. Incomplete or incorrect information leads to delays.
6. After starting a company: insurance and taxes
The final formal step in company formation in Switzerland is registration with the Commercial Register. This involves:
- Checking the information: ensure all details are accurate to avoid rejections or delays. For a sole proprietorship, registration is only mandatory from an annual turnover of CHF 100,000, but it is often recommended earlier, for example to enhance credibility with clients and partners.
- Submitting the registration: file the documents with the Commercial Register. The company is legally established only upon publication.
- Avoiding errors: complete and accurate information speeds up the process and reduces coordination efforts.
Conclusion
Whether setting up a sole proprietorship, a GmbH or an AG, a structured approach is essential. Hoop enables trust companies, law firms and notaries to handle company formations and Commercial Register changes fully online. Fewer errors, fewer back-and-forths, more time for client advice. Discover how Hoop streamlines your processes.
This blog article does not constitute legal advice, it is made available “as is” and makes no claim to completeness or accuracy. Hoop makes no warranty or liability as to its content. This is excluded to the extent permitted by law. Use is at your own risk. Legal advice is recommended if necessary.
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