Business Licenses &
Permits in Switzerland.

It depends on your business model. If you accept deposits, manage assets, or provide payment services, you likely need either an SRO membership or a Fintech license from FINMA. We can assess your specific situation and recommend the correct licensing path.

SRO membership is for financial intermediaries under AMLA (anti-money laundering compliance). A Fintech license is a FINMA-issued license for companies accepting public deposits up to CHF 100 million, with lower requirements than a full banking license. Many businesses need SRO membership as a first step before considering a Fintech license.

Most licenses require an existing legal entity. We can help you acquire a shelf company or form a new company first, then immediately proceed with the license application.

Typically 4-8 weeks, assuming all documentation is complete and compliant. We prepare everything in advance to minimise delays. Complex cases (e.g., businesses with multiple service lines or international structures) may take longer.

FINMA requires minimum capital of CHF 300,000 for a Fintech license. This capital must be fully paid in and maintained at all times. Additionally, you need adequate organizational resources, qualified management, and robust compliance infrastructure. An AG with CHF 100,000 capital is the typical starting point, with additional capital injected as needed.

Switzerland has several FINMA-recognized SROs, including VQF, PolyReg, and SO-FIT. The best choice depends on your business type, the languages you operate in, and the specific services you provide. VQF is the largest and most established. We advise on the optimal SRO for your situation.

Yes, in most cases. Crypto exchanges, custodial wallet providers, and token issuers typically need SRO membership at minimum. Depending on the activity, a full FINMA license (banking, securities dealer, or fund management) may be required. Switzerland's regulatory framework is clear but strict — proper licensing is essential.

Licensed entities must maintain AML compliance programs, conduct regular risk assessments, file suspicious activity reports (SARs) with MROS (the Swiss financial intelligence unit), undergo periodic audits, and keep records for 10 years. Our accounting & compliance team offers ongoing support to ensure you remain in good standing.

No. Swiss regulatory licenses require a Swiss-domiciled legal entity (AG or GmbH) with qualified management in Switzerland. We can help you establish the required corporate structure — either through company formation or a shelf company acquisition — before proceeding with the license application.

SECO issues export control licenses for dual-use goods, military items, and other controlled products. If your business involves exporting technology, software, or goods that could have military or surveillance applications, you may need an individual or general export license. Processing times vary from 2 weeks to several months depending on the goods and destination country.

Certain activities require cantonal authorization: restaurants and bars (Gastgewerbe), healthcare services, private security, construction, real estate brokerage, and private schools. Requirements vary significantly between cantons. In Zurich, for example, a restaurant license requires proof of professional qualification and premises inspection.

We are a lawyer-led firm with direct experience in FINMA licensing, SRO applications, and cantonal permits. Alex Rohrer handles the entire process — from regulatory assessment to application submission to ongoing compliance. We also provide the corporate infrastructure (company formation, bank account, registered office) that licensing requires.