ANobAG (employee without a Swiss-contributing employer) applies when you work in Switzerland for a foreign company that is not affiliated with a Swiss AVS fund. It lets you remain employed by the foreign company while meeting Swiss social insurance and permit obligations.
ANobAG in simple terms
- employer abroad, no Swiss establishment
- work performed from Switzerland
- AVS affiliation handled individually, with the relevant contributions
When ANobAG applies
ANobAG is common for executives, consultants and mobile professionals relocating to Geneva or Romandy while staying on a foreign payroll. It is usually the lightest option when no Swiss entity exists.
Residence and work permits: key points
The permit depends on nationality, length of stay and activity. EU/EFTA nationals follow a more straightforward process. Third-country nationals face tighter rules and quotas. Typical permit types are L, B, C and G.
Social insurance and contributions
ANobAG registration is done with the AVS fund of your canton of residence. AVS/AI/APG contributions are due, and in many cases the employee covers the employer share. Depending on the situation, accident insurance and occupational pension can also apply. Local practice varies, so a clean file helps avoid delays.
Documents to prepare
- employment contract with the foreign employer
- role description and proof of activity
- identification and civil status documents
- Swiss address and proof of residence
- AVS and cantonal forms
- insurance certificates if already in place
Steps and timelines
- situation review and choice of route (ANobAG or company incorporation)
- document collection and file validation
- AVS affiliation and social insurance setup
- permit application with the authorities
- follow-up and answers to requests
Once the file is complete, our internal processing is usually 1–3 business days. Authorities' timelines vary by canton and can reach 1–2 months in some cases.
Indicative costs
As a guide, ANobAG support often ranges from CHF 2,000 to 4,000, depending on complexity and coordination needs. Permit coordination can add roughly CHF 2,500 to 4,000. Figures depend on case details and preparation level.
ANobAG or Swiss company?
ANobAG is usually the fastest and lightest route when you just need to formalize work in Switzerland without a local entity. Incorporating a Swiss company offers more autonomy but requires share capital (CHF 20,000 for a Sàrl, CHF 50,000 for an SA) and higher setup and annual compliance obligations (payroll, accounting, VAT, tax returns).
Common pitfalls
- starting work before the right permit is issued
- underestimating permit or AVS timelines
- mixing remote work abroad with physical presence in Switzerland
- ignoring tax and social impacts of changing employer or structure
Quick checklist
- confirm nationality and intended stay duration
- validate whether ANobAG fits your profile
- prepare contract and personal documents
- coordinate AVS, insurance and permits
- anticipate cantonal processing time
How Ark Fiduciaire can help
We handle the full process: assessment, file preparation, authority coordination and post-arrival follow-up. See our immigration service and, if needed, our company incorporation support.