Company formation in Switzerland (GmbH/Sàrl, AG/SA or sole proprietorship) requires a few key decisions. This practical guide explains how to create a company in Switzerland – from choosing the right legal form to filing with the Commercial Register, handling VAT, banking and initial costs.
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1) Choose the legal form: GmbH, AG or Sole proprietorship
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GmbH (Sàrl)
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Share capital: CHF 20,000 (full payment recommended).
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Limited liability.
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Simple governance, suited for SMEs and multiple founders.
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AG (SA)
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Share capital: CHF 100,000 (min. CHF 50,000 paid in).
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More corporate image, transferable shares, formal governance (Board).
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Often preferred for fundraising or higher‑exposure projects.
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Sole proprietorship
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No minimum capital, unlimited personal liability.
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Simple to start; Commercial Register entry typically required from CHF 100,000 annual turnover (or earlier depending on activity/bank).
Quick take: for a fast start with limited liability, a GmbH/Sàrl is the most common choice.
2) Key steps to create a company (checklist)
- Name, purpose, registered office: check name availability and define the purpose.
- Registered address: lease, partner’s office or professional domiciliation.
- Articles of association: capital, share/participation structure, governance, transfer/signature clauses.
- Bank & capital: open a capital deposit account (blocking certificate).
- Notarial deed (for GmbH/AG): notarize the incorporation.
- Commercial Register file: signed articles, certificates, forms, IDs; file electronically or physically.
- VAT: assess liability (CHF 100,000 threshold on global turnover) and register if needed.
- Social insurances: AVS/AI/APG, LAA, and pension fund (LPP) if employees.
- Accounting & tools: chart of accounts, invoicing, basic internal controls.
3) Typical timelines
- Preparation of articles/file: 2–7 business days.
- Notary and bank certificate: 2–5 days.
- Commercial Register (once complete): 3–10 days.
- VAT/social registrations: a few days depending on portal/period.
Overall, incorporation often takes 1–3 weeks end‑to‑end.
4) Costs and (indicative) starting rates
Amounts below are indicative and vary by canton, notary, bank, complexity and timelines.
- GmbH/Sàrl formation pack (articles, registry file, notary coordination, VAT/AVS formalities if applicable): from CHF 1,250–1,900 excl. VAT.
- AG/SA formation pack: from CHF 1,800–2,800 excl. VAT.
- Registered office / domiciliation (Geneva/Romandy): from CHF 90–180 excl. VAT per month.
- Initial bookkeeping setup (chart of accounts, first automations): from CHF 450–900 excl. VAT.
Likely third‑party costs:
- Notary: approx. CHF 600–2,500.
- Commercial Register fees: approx. CHF 120–600.
- Capital deposit certificate (bank): approx. CHF 100–300.
We provide transparent, flexible packages. A detailed quote is issued before kick‑off.
5) VAT: when to register?
- CHF 100,000 turnover threshold (global, Swiss + foreign) over any rolling 12‑month period.
- Voluntary registration possible below the threshold (to recover input VAT where relevant).
- Choose effective method or net tax rate depending on size/sector.
6) Common pitfalls to avoid
- Underestimating articles drafting (rights/obligations, lock‑up, exit clauses).
- Skipping social insurance affiliations when hiring.
- Delaying the bank step (capital blocking certificate is needed before notarization).
- Postponing accounting setup (billing and VAT must be handled from day one).
7) FAQ – company formation Switzerland
- How long to form a GmbH? Often 1–2 weeks with a complete file.
- Is a notary required? Yes for GmbH/AG. Not for sole proprietorships.
- Can I incorporate without paying in capital? No. Funds must be paid into a blocked account first (GmbH/AG).
- When must I register for VAT? From CHF 100,000 turnover (or opt voluntarily).
Ark Fiduciaire services
We support company formation (GmbH/AG/sole prop) in Geneva and Romandy: articles, Commercial Register, VAT, banks, domiciliation, then accounting and payroll.
For a smooth start, contact our team for a tailored quote and timeline.