Starting a Business (LLC) in the Canton of Vaud
Starting a business (LLC) in Canton Vaud: the path to your own company.
Starting a Business (LLC) in the Canton of Vaud
In the Canton of Vaud, with Lausanne as its capital, there is a vibrant environment for starting a limited liability company. The region is renowned for its universities, such as EPFL and the University of Lausanne, which offer valuable networking opportunities and foster innovation. The Vaud Trade Registry facilitates smooth company registration. The canton's economy is diverse, ranging from agriculture to technology and services. Vaud is also a popular tourist destination, offering additional business opportunities. With a multilingual population and proximity to international institutions, entrepreneurs can take advantage of a global network.
Starting a business (LLC) in Canton Vaud: 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 details of the limited liability company (LLC)
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 in Switzerland: Advantages
- French-speaking canton — ideal gateway to Francophone markets
- Home to EPFL (top-ranked polytechnic) — strong tech and startup ecosystem
- Lausanne and Nyon attract international corporations and NGOs
- Proximity to Geneva and strong life sciences cluster
- Good motorway (A1/A9) and rail connections (TGV to Paris)
- Vibrant startup scene backed by EPFL Innovation Park
Starting an LLC in Switzerland: Disadvantages
- Higher cantonal tax burden compared to Zug or Schwyz
- High commercial rents in Lausanne and Nyon
- High salary expectations especially in tech sectors
- Swiss residency required for managing directors
What should I consider if I want to start a limited liability company in Canton Vaud?
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!
Business Formation Requirements in Vaud
- Choose your legal structure and register with the Vaud Commercial Register (Lausanne)
- Obtain any required sector permits or licenses
- Register with AHV social insurance
- VAT registration required above CHF 100,000 annual turnover
- Deposit share capital in a Swiss bank account (for GmbH/AG)
Key Legal Facts
- Ideal for tech, life sciences, medtech and international HQ functions
- EPFL ecosystem and StartLausanne provide strong founder support
- Audit exemption available for qualifying small companies
Canton-Specific Notes
- Strong French-speaking talent pool available
- Proximity to IOC, FIFA and other international sports bodies — relevant for sports industry
Download the Checklist
Download the checklist for preparing for self-employment with a LLC in PDF format now!