FAQs about incorporating companies in Switzerland

Table of Contents

  1. Swiss company law

• What is the source of  company law in Switzerland?
• Does the law in Switzerland differ from one canton to another?

2. Types of  corporations - juridical forms

• What is a Société Anonyme or Aktiengesellschaft?
• What is a Swiss holding company?
• What is a SARL or GmbH?
• What is a domiciled company?
• How can I create a Swiss filiale of a foreign company?
• I want to  trade between different countries and use a company based in Switzerland. Which type of company  should I choose?

3.  The most popular solutions for foreign companies

A. The Swiss holding company with permanent tax holiday

• What is a Swiss holding company?
• Why should I be interested in Swiss holding companies?
• How much tax will I pay?
• Give me an example.
• Is there a double taxation treaty between Switzerland and my country?
• Where are the best locations for holding companies in Switzerland?
• How do Swiss holdings compare with holdings in other   countries such as The Netherlands?
• Which famous international companies  used this set-up?
• How long does it take to create such a company?

B. The Swiss domiciled share corporation

• What is a Swiss share corporation?
• What is a domiciled company?
• Why should I be interested in domiciled companies?
• What are the best locations for domiciled companies within Switzerland?
• How much tax will I pay?
• How long does it take to create such a company?

4. Formalities, red tape and delays

• How long does it take to start a company?
• What is the Commercial Registry?
• What about company statutes?
• Must I have a real office in Switzerland?

5.  Taxes

• What is the rate of income tax for companies?
• What is withholding tax or impot anticipe?
• How can I pay dividends and avoid paying withholding tax?
• Tell me more about the taxes I'll have to pay when I create my company.
• Who raises taxes in Switzerland?
• How can I pay less tax?
• How can I get a tax break?

6. Our services

• I need someone to take care of everything when I start my company.  Can you do  that?
• I need an office building for my company. Can you help me?
• I need local banking connections for my company. Do you have any?
• I want professional fiscal advice. Can you provide it?
• I need a Swiss board member. Can you find me someone?
• I would like a virtual office in Switzerland. Can you help me?