Starting a limited liability company (LLC) in the canton of Bern
Starting a limited liability company (LLC) in Canton Bern: the path to your own company.
Starting a limited liability company (LLC) in the canton of Bern
In Bern, the federal city, forming a limited liability company (LLC) 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 sole proprietorship quickly and easily with the Bern 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 exciting environment to establish and develop a limited liability company (LLC).
Start a limited liability company (LLC) in Canton Bern: 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
- Cantonal tax burden above Swiss average
- Higher commercial rents in the city center
- Slower pace of innovation compared to Zurich or Basel
- Double taxation on LLC profits and dividends
- Swiss domicile required for at least one managing director
Starting an LLC: Disadvantages
- Federal capital — direct access to federal government, lobbying and procurement
- Bilingual (German/French) — gateway to both language markets
- Strong public sector, healthcare, IT and precision industry clusters
- Excellent infrastructure: airport, rail hub, motorway connections
- Large educated workforce; University of Bern, Bern University of Applied Sciences
- Stable, reputable business environment
What should I consider if I want to start a limited liability company (LLC) in Canton Bern?
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!
LLC Formation Requirements in Bern
- Minimum share capital: CHF 20,000 (fully paid up)
- At least one managing director with Swiss domicile
- Notarial deed for articles of association
- Registration with the Bern Commercial Register
- Company name must include "GmbH" / "LLC"
Key Legal Facts
- Partner liability capped at share capital contribution
- Annual financial statements required
- Audit exemption for small LLCs possible
- VAT registration above CHF 100,000 turnover
Canton-Specific Notes
- Ideal for public sector suppliers, NGOs, lobbying or government-adjacent businesses
- Bern Economic Development Agency (WFB) offers free advisory services
- Bilingual setup can be an advantage for national market coverage
Download the Checklist
Download the checklist for preparing for self-employment with a LLC in PDF format now!