Starting your first company is exciting, but when it comes to paperwork, things can quickly feel overwhelming.
Articles of association. Capital confirmation. Commercial Register forms. Identification documents. Notary deeds.
What do you actually need – and why?
In this guide, we explain clearly and simply which documents are required to incorporate a company in Switzerland, and how you can prepare them without unnecessary stress.
Why the right documents matter
Swiss company law is precise. The Commercial Register will only approve your incorporation if all required documents are complete and correctly submitted. Missing or incorrect paperwork can delay your company launch by weeks.
The good news? If you know what is required in advance, the process is straightforward.
Documents required to incorporate a GmbH (LLC)
The GmbH (limited liability company) is one of the most popular legal forms in Switzerland, especially for first-time founders.
Here are the key documents you need:
1. Articles of Association
This is the legal foundation of your company.
It includes:
- Company name and registered office
- Business purpose
- Share capital amount
- Details of shareholders
- Management structure
2. Public Deed of Incorporation
The incorporation must be notarised in Switzerland. During this step:
- The founders declare the formation of the company
- The Articles of Association are formally approved
- Managing directors are appointed
Without notarisation, the company cannot be registered.
3. Capital Confirmation
For a GmbH, the minimum share capital is CHF 20,000.
Before incorporation:
- The capital must be paid into a special capital deposit account
- The bank issues a confirmation certificate
This document proves that the required capital is available.
4. Identification Documents
All founders and managing directors must provide:
- A valid passport or ID
- Proof of residence
In some cases, additional verification may be required.
5. Declaration of Acceptance
Each managing director must formally accept their appointment.
This declaration confirms:
- Acceptance of the role
- Eligibility to act on behalf of the company
6. Commercial Register Application
The complete incorporation file is submitted to the cantonal Commercial Register.
This includes:
- The notarised deed
- Articles of Association
- Bank confirmation
- Identification documents
- Signature specimens
Once approved, your company legally exists.
What about a Swiss AG (Ltd)?
For an AG (public limited company), the process is similar but with some differences:
- Minimum share capital: CHF 100,000 (at least CHF 50,000 paid in)
- More complex governance structure
- Shares instead of quotas
The documentation requirements are slightly more extensive, but follow the same principle: notarisation, capital confirmation, and Commercial Register approval.
Common mistakes first-time founders make
Many founders underestimate the administrative details. Typical issues include:
- Choosing a company name that is already registered
- Defining a business purpose that is too vague or too narrow
- Submitting incomplete identification documents
- Delays in opening the capital deposit account
Careful preparation avoids unnecessary back and forth with authorities.
Can you prepare these documents yourself?
In theory, yes.
In practice, drafting legally compliant Articles of Association, coordinating with the bank, booking a notary appointment, and handling Commercial Register submission can be time-consuming – especially if it’s your first company.
This is where a structured digital process makes a difference.
How does Hoop simplify the documentation process?
With Hoop, the entire incorporation process is handled online.
Instead of navigating paperwork alone, you:
- Enter your company details through a guided digital process
- Receive legally compliant documents prepared for you
- Complete identification digitally
- Coordinate notarisation efficiently
- Track your registration status in real time
Everything is structured, transparent, and secure.
You stay in control – without dealing with administrative complexity.
Ready to start your company?
Starting a business should feel exciting – not bureaucratic.
If you are preparing your first incorporation and want a clear, reliable, and fully digital process, Hoop supports you from start to registration.
Start your company online and focus on building your business – not on paperwork.
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.