Sole proprietorship, GmbH or AG: where to begin
Questions to answer before forming a business in Switzerland.
Start with how the business will work
Choosing a legal form is a business decision as well as an administrative one. Before comparing names or incorporation packages, describe who will own the business, what it will do and how it will be financed.
Consider more than the formation price
The official SME Portal identifies capital, risk and liability, independence, taxes and social security as factors in the choice. There is no single form that is best for every entrepreneur.
Write a one-page business profile
Our suggested preparation is a summary of the activity, owners, expected customers, location and first-year budget. Note whether you will hire staff, work across borders or need financing. This gives a discussion a concrete starting point.
Compare the ongoing work
Ask what bookkeeping, tax filings and payroll administration your proposed structure would involve. Compare the first-year setup with the recurring workload. A lower setup price alone does not explain the total cost of running the business.
Separate the questions
Company registration, recognition of self-employed status, VAT and employment administration are distinct matters. Ask which steps apply to your situation and who will handle each one. Residence, permits and regulated activities may need additional review.
Your next step
Send StartKonto your proposed activity, canton and ownership plan. We can help structure the administrative questions and outline the support required. Choosing a form should follow a review of your circumstances, rather than an assumption based on another business.
Official reference: SECO SME Portal: choosing a legal structure
General information. The appropriate steps depend on your circumstances.