Company Formation in Geneva in 2025: Updated Steps, Solutions for SMEs and Independents

Introduction

Starting a company in Geneva, whether as a self-employed individual or a project leader, remains a major ambition in French-speaking Switzerland. However, with legislative developments, enhanced compliance requirements, and increased digitalization of processes, forming a company in 2025 requires adapting procedures and relying on professional solutions.

In this article, Ark Fiduciaire provides a practical and up-to-date guide, taking into account the latest reforms and current challenges, to successfully create your company in Geneva. We offer concrete guidance at every stage, ensuring legal and administrative security, for SMEs and independents.

1. Why Choose Geneva for Your Company in 2025?

Geneva remains a prime business hub for:

• Its international and multilingual environment
• Access to powerful professional networks
• Economic and political stability
• Attractive corporate taxation

Geneva also appeals due to its ability to host any company form: sole proprietorship, limited liability company (Sàrl), joint-stock company (SA), holding, innovative startup, etc.

2. Available Legal Forms: Advantages and Limitations

a) Sole Proprietorship

Ideal for independents wishing to start a business with reduced formalities and minimal starting capital. Beware, however, of the lack of private asset protection.

b) Limited Liability Company (Sàrl)

An intermediate solution suitable for SMEs and independents seeking to limit risks, with a minimum capital of CHF 20,000 and more structured governance obligations.

c) Joint-Stock Company (SA)

The most widespread form for ambitious projects, fundraising, or high-risk activities. Minimum capital of CHF 100,000, with at least CHF 50,000 paid in at formation.

Each form has its own tax regime, governance obligations, and social and asset implications.

3. Key Steps in Company Formation in 2025

a) Defining the Project and Choosing the Legal Status

• Feasibility study, financial forecasts
• Choice of company name (check with the Commercial Register)

b) Drafting the Articles and Incorporation Documents

• Draft tailored to the activity
• Consideration of the latest regulatory requirements (May 20, 2025: entry into force of changes to the Code of Obligations for shareholder transparency)

c) Registered Office and Address Choice

• Obligation to have a real seat in Geneva or professional domiciliation (a common solution for flexibility and image)

d) Opening the Capital Deposit Account

• Deposit of share capital with a Swiss bank (certificate of deposit required)
• New: partial digitalization of the process, banking platforms compatible with SwissID

e) Notary Appointment

• Signing of the articles
• Preparation of official incorporation deeds

f) Registration with the Commercial Register

• Now a digital process with the cantonal Registry (e-Gov)
• Strengthened beneficial owner controls, in line with the updated Commercial Register Ordinance (CRO – June 2025)

g) Social Insurance and Other Obligations (OASI, BVG, LAI, etc.)

• New simplification via the OASI – eGov portal, mandatory from September 2025
• VAT registration required from CHF 100,000 in revenue

4. Main 2025 Reforms to Incorporate

• Transparency on Beneficial Owners (art. 697j CO), increased control during incorporation and statutory modifications
• Dematerialization of Procedures: direct creation via e-procedure, widespread use of qualified electronic signature and SwissID
• Tighter Anti-Money Laundering Requirements (FINMA – AMLA), especially for companies active in finance, domiciliation, or third-party asset management

5. Frequent Risks and Concrete Solutions

a) Rejection of File at the Commercial Register

• Causes: non-compliant articles, missing information on shareholders or partners, unsuitable registered office
• Ark Fiduciaire Solution: preliminary audit of articles and file, personalized support

b) Unexpected Delays and Additional Costs

• Anticipate banking delays, notary availability, CRO reinforced controls
• Solution: detailed planning, choice of experienced partners, digitalized processes

c) Inappropriate Choice of Tax or Social Status

• Poor anticipation of social charges, VAT, or pension obligations
• Solution: custom simulations and personalized advice for optimal taxation and social charges

6. Key Points for Successful Incorporation in Geneva

• Use modern articles compliant with 2025 requirements
• Prepare a robust business plan tailored to the specifics of the Geneva market
• Choose a fiduciary firm with recognized experience, especially to secure procedures and anticipate regulatory changes
• Plan for future management: outsourcing of accounting, payroll, management, board, etc.
• Ensure ongoing compliance with continuous support (internal control, taxation, social obligations)

7. Digital Tools and New Trends in 2025

a) SwissID, Electronic Signature, and Digital Registers

• Applied from the registration with the Commercial Register, saving time and enhancing security

b) Integrated ERP Solutions (e.g., Odoo)

• Digitalization of accounting, administrative and HR management from day one

c) Cantonal eGov Portals

• Facilitating social/OASI, VAT, and professional licensing processes

Conclusion

Succeeding in forming a company in Geneva in 2025 means anticipating (new) regulatory requirements, leveraging digitalization, and securing every step with tailored professional advice. Independents, SMEs, and start-ups all benefit from customized solutions for a successful entrepreneurial venture in French-speaking Switzerland.

For any question or tailored support, Ark Fiduciaire assists you at every key stage of your company’s life.

See also:

• Official Guide – Starting a Business in Geneva (State of Geneva)
• Code of Obligations Amendments in 2025 (Swiss Confederation)
• Anti-Money Laundering – AMLA 2025