How to Incorporate Your LLC in Switzerland (2025)?

TL;DR: How to Incorporate Your LLC in Switzerland

• Minimum capital: Deposit CHF 20,000 into a blocked (capital deposit) account
• Public notarization & commercial register entry are mandatory
• An LLC offers liability protection and a professional image
• Startups.ch handles every step of the incorporation process for you

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How to Incorporate an LLC in Switzerland (2025)

The LLC is one of the most popular legal forms for small and medium-sized enterprises in Switzerland. It combines liability protection, a professional appearance, and flexible management. In this article, you’ll learn step by step how to set up your LLC safely and efficiently—including all costs, legal requirements, and practical examples.

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Why is the LLC so popular in Switzerland?

An LLC separates personal and business assets. Liability is limited to the company’s assets. At the same time, you benefit from a trustworthy image in the market—an advantage with banks, investors, or clients. Especially in Switzerland, where reliability matters, this is a real competitive edge.

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What do I need to set up an LLC?

To incorporate your LLC, you’ll need:

• At least one natural or legal person as a member/shareholder
• Minimum share capital of CHF 20,000
• Notarized articles of association and a deed of incorporation
• A blocked (capital deposit) account at a Swiss bank
• Registration with the Commercial Register

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Optional – but recommended:

• VAT registration if annual turnover exceeds CHF 100,000
• Relevant insurance policies
• Tax advice
• Fiduciary services

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How much does it cost to incorporate an LLC?

| Cost Item                        | Amount (CHF)             |
| -------------------------------- | ------------------------ |
| Minimum capital                  | 20,000 (blocked account) |
| Notary fees                      | 500 – 2,000              |
| Commercial register entry        | 500 – 700                |

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Which documents does the Commercial Register require?

• Commercial Register application
• Deed of incorporation
• Notarized articles of association
• Certified signatures and ID copies for all authorized signatories

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What is the role of the blocked account?

Before the Commercial Register entry, the share capital must be transferred to a blocked account at a Swiss bank. This account is frozen until registration is completed. Afterwards, the funds are released and can be used for business expenses.

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Do I need to register my LLC for VAT?

Yes. If your LLC has annual turnover of more than CHF 100,000, registration for VAT with the Federal Tax Administration (FTA) is mandatory.

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Which insurance policies does an LLC need?

• AHV/IV/EO (old-age, disability, and loss-of-income insurance) for all employees and managing directors
• Accident insurance for employees (including part-time staff)

Recommended:

• Professional liability insurance
• General and product liability insurance
• Property insurance (e.g., inventory, IT equipment)

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Which local authorities are responsible?

Example: Zurich
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• Commercial Register Office of the Canton of Zurich – www.hrazh.ch
  ‍Address: Walcheplatz 1, 8001 Zurich
  Processing time: approx. 4 weeks

• SVA Zurich – www.svazurich.ch

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Practical example: Founder team from Lucerne takes off

A young developer team from Lucerne incorporates an LLC for their SaaS platform. Through Startups.ch, the incorporation is completed within 3 weeks. Today, the company employs 8 people.

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Frequently asked questions about LLC incorporation in Switzerland

• Can I set up an LLC as a single person? Yes.
• Does the capital have to be cash? No.
• What happens to the capital after incorporation? It becomes available to the LLC.
• Is a managing director resident in Switzerland required? Yes.
• How long does incorporation take? 7–20 days.

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Conclusion: Who is an LLC right for?

An LLC is ideal for anyone who:

• Wants to protect personal assets
• Seeks a professional image
• Wants to incorporate alone or as a team
• Is ready to invest at least CHF 20,000

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👉 Incorporate your LLC online now with Startups.ch: https://www.startups.ch/it/costituire/societa-a-garanzia-limitata

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