Starting a Business (LLC) in the Canton of Zurich
Starting a business (LLC) in Canton Zurich: the path to your own company.
Starting a Business (LLC) in the Canton of Zurich
Establishing a limited liability company in Zurich has many advantages due to the dynamic economy and high quality of life. Zurich, the economic center of Switzerland, offers a wide range of potential clients and business partners. The city has excellent infrastructure and a well-developed transportation network. Registering a limited liability company with the Zurich Commercial Registry is a simple process. It is essential to pay attention to local regulations, especially regarding business licensing and tax obligations. The University of Zurich and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich (ETH) offer valuable networking opportunities to develop innovative business models. In addition, the many co-working spaces in the city are a significant advantage for start-ups.
Start a limited liability company in Canton Zurich: here's how to do it!
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.
Starting an LLC: Advantages
- Switzerland's largest economic hub — unmatched GDP, talent and corporate density
- Global financial center: banking, insurance, fintech, asset management
- Zurich Airport with extensive international connectivity
- ETH Zurich, University of Zurich — world-class research and talent pipeline
- Vibrant startup and VC ecosystem for AG formation
- High international recognition and prestige
Starting an LLC: Disadvantages
- Highest commercial rents in Switzerland
- Cantonal tax rates among the highest for businesses
- Very high salary expectations and cost of living
- Intense competition across all sectors
- Swiss residency required for at least one board member
What should I consider if I want to start a limited liability company in Canton Zurich?
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.
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.
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.
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!
AG Incorporation Requirements in Zurich
- Minimum share capital: CHF 100,000 (at least CHF 50,000 paid up)
- At least one board member domiciled in Switzerland
- Notarial deed required for articles of association
- Registration with the Zurich Commercial Register
- Company name must include "AG" / "SA"
Key Legal Facts
- Shareholder liability limited to share capital
- Annual financial statements and board report mandatory
- Statutory audit required (ordinary or limited depending on size)
- VAT registration required above CHF 100,000 annual turnover
Canton-Specific Notes
- Ideal for finance, tech, consulting and professional services AGs
- ETH spin-off ecosystem is world-class for deep tech and engineering corporations