Company formation

Switzerland may be part of the Single Market but operates independently of the European Union (EU). This independence allows Switzerland to set its VAT rates free from EU regulations. If you plan to do business in Switzerland, understanding the country’s VAT rates and regulations is essential for smooth operations. In this post, we’ll walk you through the essentials of Swiss VAT—covering the current rates, how foreign companies can register for VAT, and essential compliance and invoicing requirements in Switzerland.

In 2023, Switzerland was one of the top five European countries for Venture Capital Investments. Businesses across multiple sectors, such as fintech and biotech, raised funds totaling $2.3 billion. This shows that the appetite for Swiss-based companies is growing in some sectors. As we enter the third quarter of the year, let's explore the shifting trends in VC funding for Swiss startups. We will highlight the most significant investor activities in the economy and the outlook for businesses in the most robust sectors.

Switzerland’s tech industry has a unique advantage as the country boasts two prominent cities with vibrant tech hubs — Zurich and Geneva. According to the World Intellectual Property Organisation, Switzerland ranks fourth globally regarding innovation. This position can be attributed to the record number of startups and unicorns launching out of Switzerland. Leverage this guide to Switzerland's most competitive tech ecosystems to determine which city best aligns with your business strategy. Each city offers unique resources and opportunities — delve into their distinctive advantages and assess how they align with your business goals before choosing.

Switzerland currently ranks 4th in the Global Innovation Index, which can be attributed to the success of its startups. In the first half of 2023 alone, the Swiss registered over 26,000 Swiss start-ups and this upward trend has continued in 2024. Every entrepreneur who encounters such statistics wants to know why founders are attracted to the Swiss startup ecosystem. This quick overview of the startup environment in Switzerland answers the most frequently asked questions and provides a thorough introduction to Swiss initiatives aimed at driving innovation and supporting startup businesses.

The rewards for investing in Switzerland's 807.71 billion dollar economy are a very open secret. However, some entrepreneurs fail to enjoy the full benefits of operating in Switzerland due to a limited understanding of the Swiss legal framework and their company’s legal responsibilities. This blog explores the top 5 legal issues entrepreneurs must prioritize by examining recent notable cases. Discover common legal challenges in the Swiss legal system and learn effective strategies to mitigate risk.

Setting your sights on Switzerland for your next business venture is exciting. Known for its robust economy, favorable business environment, and high quality of life, Switzerland is a prime location for entrepreneurs. However, before you proceed, it's crucial to understand the visa and permit regulations. This guide provides detailed insights into the residency requirements for new Swiss business owners. Read on to understand who needs which permit, the eligibility criteria and explore other visa types available to the newly minted business owner.

AI usage is in for a swift expansion, with Grand View Research projecting an impressive annual growth rate of 37.3% from 2023 to 2030. This growth prediction also spills over into mergers and acquisitions (M&A) territory. So, where exactly does AI fit into your M&A strategy? This detailed overview explores the growing influence of AI technologies in M&A and their anticipated impact on transactions in the near future.

In recent years, Switzerland has faced a pressing challenge—a shortage of skilled workers. By the end of 2023, more than 120,000 job openings had not been filled, which has affected industries vital to the country's economy. To address the shortage of skilled workers, Switzerland is taking action by improving vocational training, loosening immigration rules to attract foreign talent, and more. These steps are designed to fill job vacancies and prepare the workforce for future needs.

Switzerland, known for its robust economy and innovation-driven environment, is embracing several significant regulatory changes in 2024. These changes cover diverse sectors, from transportation to healthcare, and reflect the nation’s commitment to adaptability, sustainability, and competitiveness.

Starting a new business can be overwhelming. However, while meeting the legal requirements for company registration is essential, other aspects of setting up a business are equally important. These include selecting a suitable location, securing financial resources, and hiring employees, among other factors.