Start-Up in Switzerland: First Steps and Checklist for Founding a Company
How do I establish a startup in Switzerland? Careful preparation is the key to success. This checklist outlines the first steps for starting a business.
Switzerland offers optimal conditions for startups – economic stability, innovative strength, and a transparent legal environment create ideal conditions. Sound planning and a structured approach are crucial in turning an idea into a real business. From developing the business model and choosing the appropriate legal structure to complying with legal requirements: This guide provides a concise overview and a practical checklist for successfully entering the Swiss startup world.
Brainstorming and Business Plan for Your Startup
Every successful start-up begins with a well-thought-out business idea and a solid business plan. Plan carefully which market you want to enter, who your customers should be, and how much money you will need to invest. Clarify important questions in advance—for example, with the help of the SME portal of the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs. A clear business plan helps you to realistically assess your chances of success and convince potential investors.
Legal Structure and Company Name
Next, choose the appropriate legal structure for your startup. Our already published article provides you with the necessary assistance:
Find the right legal structures: The best choice for start-ups and SMEs - KENDRIS.
Also, decide on a company name early on and check its availability with the
Commercial Register
Establishment & Formalities
In most cases, a notarized deed is required to establish a company in Switzerland. However, there are various online platforms where you can set up a company at low cost. Examples of this are platforms Fasoon and IFJ.
With an annual turnover of CHF 100,000 or more, registration for value added tax (VAT) is also mandatory. It is also important not to forget social security contributions (see also SME portal) and other necessary business insurance (e.g., professional liability insurance).
Financing and funding
Startups are usually financed with (self-generated) equity capital. Precise capital planning is crucial and includes the capital requirements for the start-up and development phase of the business until the break-even point is reached. In addition, structured and up-to-date accounting and liquidity planning are essential. They create financial transparency, support informed decisions, and help identify financial bottlenecks at an early stage.
Checklist: Establishing a startup in Switzerland
First steps for a company start-up
- Create business plan, secure financing, factor in founding costs.
- Select legal structure and company name and check availability.
- Determine the company headquarters, obtain any necessary industry or location permits.
Establishment
- Draw up articles of association and memorandum of association (GmbH/AG) and have them notarized.
- Bank confirmation of the capital contribution into a capital contribution account.
- Commercial register entry: registration via EasyGov or cantonal commercial register; mandatory for limited liability companies (GmbH)/corporations (AG). Optional for sole proprietorships: mandatory recording in the Commercial Register from CHF100,000 in sales.
- Auditors: request confirmation and declaration of acceptance from the auditors, if desired/necessary.
- Social insurance: assess needs and connect with social services/insurance providers.
- Insurance covers: check the need and take out insurance policies.
After the company has been established
- Social insurances: register employees at AHV (Old age and Survivor's Insurance)/IV (Disability Insurance)/EO (Loss of earnings compensation), UVG (Accident and occupational disease insurance), if necessary KTG (Sickness Pay) and BVG (Federal Law on Occupational Retirement, Survivors' and Disability Pension Plans).
- Set up legally compliant accounting and involve fiduciary experts.
- VAT obligation starting from a CHF 100,000 in sales or voluntary submission – registration with the Federal Tax Administration (FTA).
- Industry-specific permits, intellectual property rights (e.g. trademark, patent).
Ready to get started? Thorough preparation is the first step to success. At KENDRIS, we support young entrepreneurs through all stages of start-up with our Startup Service. Contact us to find out more about our services and get your start-up ready for the future!
