Knowledge Base

Frequently Asked
Questions.

Answers to common questions about establishing and running a business in Switzerland.

Swiss business office — Frequently Asked Questions
Shelf Companies
What is a shelf company? +
A shelf company is a pre-registered company that has been "sitting on the shelf" with no business activity. It is ready for immediate use. Our shelf companies are verified, debt-free, and can be transferred to you within 24-48 hours.
What is the difference between a shelf AG and a shelf GmbH? +
An AG (Aktiengesellschaft) is a Swiss corporation with minimum share capital of CHF 100,000 (50% paid in). A GmbH (Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung) is a limited liability company with minimum capital of CHF 20,000. The GmbH is more suitable for smaller businesses, while the AG offers more flexibility and shareholder privacy.
Are your shelf companies debt-free? +
Yes. Every shelf company we sell has been thoroughly verified. They have no debts, no liabilities, no pending legal issues, and a clean commercial register history. We provide a legal guarantee.
How quickly can I start operating after buying a shelf company? +
Typically within 24-48 hours. Once the share transfer is completed and the new directors are registered, the company is fully operational.
How much does a shelf company cost? +
The cost includes the paid-in share capital (CHF 50,000 for AG, CHF 20,000 for GmbH), legal transfer fees (CHF 3,000-8,000), and Commercial Register fees (CHF 600-1,200). Contact us for a detailed quote.
Can I change the name and purpose of a shelf company? +
Yes. Name and purpose can be amended during the transfer process. This requires a general assembly resolution and Commercial Register update, which we handle entirely.
Company Formation
How long does it take to form a new company in Switzerland? +
A new AG or GmbH formation typically takes 2-4 weeks from start to commercial register entry. This includes notarisation, bank account opening for capital deposit, and registration.
Do I need to be in Switzerland to form a company? +
No. We can handle the entire process remotely. A notarised power of attorney allows us to act on your behalf. Documents can be authenticated at a Swiss embassy.
What is the minimum capital required? +
For a GmbH: CHF 20,000 (fully paid in). For an AG: CHF 100,000 (minimum CHF 50,000 paid in). The capital must be deposited in a Swiss bank escrow account before registration.
Can a foreigner own 100% of a Swiss company? +
Yes. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership of Swiss companies. However, at least one director must be resident in Switzerland. We provide nominee director services for this.
Which canton should I register my company in? +
It depends on your business type and tax optimisation goals. Zurich offers prestige, Zug and Schwyz have lower tax rates, and Geneva is ideal for international organisations. We advise on the best canton for your situation.
Residence & Work Permits
Can I get a Swiss residence permit through my company? +
Yes. If you establish or acquire a company in Switzerland and take an active management role, you can apply for a B permit. Requirements vary by canton but generally require a viable business plan and sufficient funds.
What types of permits are available? +
B permit (annual, renewable residence), C permit (permanent, after 5-10 years), L permit (short-term, up to 1 year), and G permit (cross-border commuter). For business owners, the B permit is most common initially.
How long does it take to get a residence permit? +
Typically 4-8 weeks after submitting a complete application to the cantonal migration office.
Can my family join me in Switzerland? +
Yes. Family reunification is possible with a B or C permit. Your spouse and children under 18 can apply for dependent permits.
Bank Accounts & Finance
Can I open a Swiss bank account without visiting Switzerland? +
In many cases, yes. We work with several banks that accept remote account opening via video identification for corporate clients.
Which banks do you work with? +
We maintain relationships with major Swiss banks (UBS, ZKB) as well as specialised business banks and digital banks. The best choice depends on your business type, transaction volume, and specific needs.
How long does it take to open a corporate bank account? +
Typically 2-4 weeks for standard applications. Complex structures (holding companies, fintech) may take 4-8 weeks due to enhanced KYC requirements.
What is the corporate tax rate in Switzerland? +
The effective corporate tax rate varies by canton, ranging from approximately 11.9% (Zug) to 19.7% (Geneva). Zurich is around 19.7%. Federal tax is 8.5% for all cantons; the cantonal/communal rate varies.
Pricing & Working With Us
How much do your services cost? +
We provide transparent, fixed-price quotes for every service. No hidden fees. Contact us for a detailed proposal tailored to your requirements.
Do you offer ongoing support after company setup? +
Yes. We offer accounting, tax filing, registered office, nominee director, and compliance services on an ongoing basis. Many clients use us as their single point of contact.
Who will handle my case? +
Alex Rohrer, our founder and managing partner, personally oversees every client engagement. You work directly with a qualified lawyer — not a call centre or anonymous support team.
Do you work with clients outside Europe? +
Yes. We serve clients globally — from the Middle East, Asia, Americas, and Africa. Our entire service is available in English and can be managed remotely.

Still Have Questions?

Contact us for a personal consultation. We are happy to help.

Speak to Alex Rohrer