Why Switzerland
A Structurally Sound Corporate Domicile
Switzerland’s appeal as a corporate domicile is not marketing. It is structural. A stable political environment, a judiciary that enforces contracts reliably, a currency that holds its value, and a tax treaty network covering over 100 countries combine to make Switzerland one of the world’s most defensible bases for international business activity.
Zug specifically has developed into one of Europe’s most concentrated hubs for international
holding structures, technology companies, and commodity trading operations. The canton’s
corporate tax rates rank among the lowest in Switzerland, and its proximity to Zurich provides
access to first-class financial and professional services.
Entity Selection
GmbH vs AG: Which Structure is Right for You?
The two primary corporate vehicle options in Switzerland for international founders are the
GmbH and the AG. Both provide limited liability. The differences turn on capital requirements,
governance flexibility, disclosure obligations, and future financing options.
GmbH
Limited Liability Company- Minimum share capital: CHF 20,000 (must be fully paid up at formation)
- Members' (shareholders') names disclosed in the Commercial Register
- Lower formation and ongoing administrative cost
- Suitable for owner-managed businesses, consulting structures, and holding vehicles with a small number of partners
- Transfer of ownership interests requires notarial act
AG
Public Limited Company- Minimum share capital: CHF 100,000 (at least CHF 50,000 must be paid up at formation)
- Shareholders are not publicly disclosed
- Bearer shares abolished under 2023 Swiss corporate law reforms
- More suitable for businesses seeking external investment, venture capital, or IPO readiness
- Higher prestige for counterparties in certain industries and jurisdictions
We advise on the appropriate structure based on your ownership, governance preferences, banking requirements, and medium-term plans.
The Formation Process
From Instruction to Registration
PROCESS
01
Initial Consultation and Scoping
We discuss your business model, proposed shareholder structure, operational plans, and
timeline. We advise on entity type, registered office options, and any regulatory considerations
relevant to your sector.
02
Document Preparation
We prepare the articles of association, shareholder register, and all founding documents in German, with English translations provided.
03
Bank Account and Capital Deposit
We introduce you to a suitable Swiss banking partner and coordinate the Kapitaleinlagekonto
process. The share capital must be deposited in a blocked account before the notary can
certify the founding documents.
04
Notarial Certification
The founding documents are certified by a Swiss notary. For non-resident founders, this can in most cases be handled remotely via power of attorney.
05
Commercial Register Filing
We file all documents with the Zug Commercial Register. The company is typically entered within 5 to 10 working days of complete filing.
06
Post-Formation Setup
Once registered, we assist with the company's UID, VAT registration if applicable, and
operational bank account setup. We provide a post-incorporation compliance briefing covering
ongoing statutory obligations.
Non-Resident Requirements
Under Article 718a of the Swiss Code of Obligations, a Swiss company must be represented externally by at least one person domiciled in Switzerland. For a GmbH with a single non- resident managing director, this is a formation-blocking requirement. Seraama provides a Swiss-resident director service that satisfies this requirement.
Client Requirements
What You Need to Provide
Certified Passport Copy
For each shareholder and proposed director.
Proof of Address
Utility bill or bank statement, dated within 3 months.
Proposed Company Name
We check availability against the Commercial Register and trademark databases.
Share Capital Amount and Allocation
Proposed amount and distribution between shareholders.
Business Activity Description
A brief description of the company's intended business activities.
Nominee Shareholder Information
If applicable to your structure.
For regulated activities (financial services, insurance, healthcare, recruitment), additional regulatory
filings may be required. We will identify these at the scoping stage.