Starting a limited liability company (LLC) in the canton of Zurich
Starting a limited liability company (LLC) in Canton Zurich: the path to your own company.
Starting a limited liability company (LLC) in the canton of Zurich
Establishing a limited liability company (LLC) 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 customers and business partners. The city has excellent infrastructure and a well-developed transportation network. Registering a limited liability company (LLC) 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 (LLC) 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
- Highest commercial rents in Switzerland
- Cantonal tax rates among the highest for LLCs
- Very high salary expectations and cost of living
- Double taxation on LLC profits and dividends
- Swiss residency required for at least one managing director
- Intense competition across all sectors
Starting an LLC: Disadvantages
- Switzerland's largest economic hub — GDP, talent and corporate density unmatched
- Global financial center: banking, insurance, fintech, asset management
- Zurich Airport offers extensive international connectivity
- ETH Zurich, University of Zurich — world-class research and talent pipeline
- Vibrant startup ecosystem with strong VC presence
- Excellent public transport and quality of life
- High international recognition and prestige
What should I consider if I want to start a limited liability company (LLC) 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!
LLC Formation Requirements in Zurich
- 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 Zurich Commercial Register
- Company name must include "GmbH" / "LLC" and be distinctive
Key Legal Facts
- Partner liability limited to share capital contribution
- Annual financial statements mandatory
- Audit exemption possible for qualifying small LLCs
- VAT registration required above CHF 100,000 annual turnover
Canton-Specific Notes
- Ideal for finance, tech, consulting, media and professional services LLCs
- Greater Zurich Area portal offers business setup support in multiple languages
- High costs offset by unparalleled access to talent, capital and markets
Download the Checklist
Download the checklist for preparing for self-employment with a LLC in PDF format now!