Starting a business (LLC) in the Canton of Bern

Starting a business (LLC) in Canton Bern: the path to your own company.

Starting a limited liability company in the canton of Bern

In Bern, the federal city, forming a limited liability company is facilitated by stable political conditions and a well-organized administration. The city offers an excellent environment for business in the service sector due to the presence of numerous federal offices and international organizations. It is possible to register a limited liability company quickly and easily with the Berne Trade Registry. In addition, entrepreneurs can benefit from a strong network within the region. Proximity to key decision makers is an added advantage. Local networks and start-up centers, such as the Impact Hub Bern, offer support and advice for start-ups. The city also hosts numerous international events and conferences, providing additional networking opportunities. With its high quality of life and rich cultural heritage, Bern provides an inspiring environment to establish and develop a limited liability company.

PROCESS

Start a limited liability company in Canton Bern: here's how to do it!

1

Calculate a non-binding offer

Enter your start-up project conveniently online and benefit from cost sharing from our partners. In just a few steps you can compose your customized start-up package.

Enter the LLC's data

After calculating the non-binding offer, enter your company details. At this point you can order the incorporation of the company.

Get in touch

Our attorneys will contact you within the specified time (often less than 24 hours). You will receive all incorporation documents, discuss any uncertainties, and schedule a personal consultation.

Check the documents

You can consult, print and sign all the constituent documents at your convenience at home.

Authenticate signature

At this point you must obtain official certification of the signature (e.g., from the local authority). This confirms that the signature is indeed yours.

Entry in the commercial register

We submit all incorporation documents to the commercial register and ensure that your company is successfully registered in the commercial register. In the case of corporations, the paid-up capital is transferred to a business account after publication and is available to your company.

Celebrate

Congratulations on the successful founding of your company. Your company is now active and can operate.

Definition of the LLC in Switzerland

We believe that personalized advice is the key to best understanding our clients' individual needs and challenges and offering tailored solutions.

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Starting an LLC: Advantages

Establishing a limited liability company in Bern offers access to a large customer base due to the city's central location. Bern is the political center of Switzerland and offers a diverse economy, high quality of life, and strong support for small businesses.

Starting an LLC: Disadvantages

Establishing a limited liability company in Bern can be complicated due to bureaucracy and stringent regulations. Operating costs, including rent and labor, can be high, burdening small businesses. Competition in the service and trade sectors can be intense, making it difficult for new businesses to emerge. In addition, the need for good networking to access financing and support can be a challenge for first-time entrepreneurs.

What should I consider if I want to start a limited liability company in Canton Bern?

Capital needed

A minimum of CHF 20,000 (fully released) is required to establish a LLC.Info: The founder of an PLC or LLC cannot draw money from the pension fund because he is employed in his own company on the basis of an employment contract. He is therefore not considered self-employed under OASI law.

Number of members

The LLC requires at least one partner and one managing director, which can be the same person. A managing director with signature authority must also be a resident of Switzerland.

Auditing

The audit is mandatory for 10 or more employees. Under Article 727 CO, an LLC is subject to ordinary audit if it exceeds two of the following thresholds in two consecutive fiscal years: Balance sheet total: 20 million francs - Turnover: 40 million francs - Full-time employees: 250.

Subjection to VAT

Your LLC is subject to value added tax only if its turnover exceeds CHF 100,000. However, you can also voluntarily apply VAT to a lower turnover.

What you need to know about the LLC!

Establishing a limited liability company (LLC) in Switzerland requires attention to several legal and administrative issues. Here are the main points to consider:

Choice of Company Name

  • The name must be unique and not confusable with other registered companies.
  • It must contain the abbreviation “LLC” to indicate the type of company.‍

Share Capital

  • The minimum share capital is CHF 20,000.
  • It must be fully paid up before registration.

Members and Shares

  • There can be one or more partners.
  • Each member must have at least one share.
  • Partners are liable up to the amount of their shares.

Advantages of establishing a limited liability company (LLC) in Switzerland

  1. Limited Liability:
    • Partners are only liable up to the amount of their shares. This limits personal financial risks in case of debts of the company.
  2. Minimum Share Capital:
    • The required minimum share capital of CHF 20,000 is relatively affordable compared to other forms of companies, facilitating the establishment of new companies.
  3. Credibility and Trust:
    • A LLC is seen as a solid and reputable corporate form, which can increase the trust of customers, suppliers and investors.
  4. Flexible Structure:
    • LLC offer a flexible organizational structure, allowing the easy addition of new members and changes in administration.
  5. Tax Advantages:
    • Switzerland offers a competitive tax environment with relatively low tax rates and numerous double taxation agreements that can benefit the company.

Disadvantages of establishing a limited liability company (LLC) in Switzerland

  1. Initial Costs:
    • Incorporation costs, including notary and registration costs, can be high.
  2. Administrative Complexity:
    • Administrative management can be complex, requiring detailed bookkeeping and compliance with strict legal requirements.
  3. Double Taxation:
    • Company profits are taxed at the corporate level, and dividends distributed to shareholders are subject to income tax, leading to possible double taxation.
  4. Audit Obligations:
    • Although small businesses may opt for exemption from audit, many LLCs are still subject to audit, leading to additional costs.
  5. Residency Obligations:
    • At least one director must be a resident of Switzerland, which can be a difficulty for foreign partners wishing to form an LLC.

These advantages and disadvantages should be carefully considered by anyone wishing to establish an LLC in Switzerland to ensure that this corporate form is suitable for their business needs and objectives.