How to Register a Business in Switzerland for Coaches, Consultants, and Course Creators
- Vena Verga-Danemar
- Dec 8, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 25
Starting a business in Switzerland is an exciting journey, but understanding the legal requirements is essential. This guide explains how to register a business in Switzerland for coaches, consultants, and course creators, whether you’re setting up a sole proprietorship (Einzelfirma, Ditta Individuale, Raison Individuelle) or a GmbH/SARL (Limited Liability Company).
How to Determine If You Need to Register a Business in Switzerland for Coaches, Consultants, and Course Creators
The short answer is no if you are earning less than CHF 100,000 annually. If you’re earning over CHF 100,000 annually, registration as a sole proprietorship (Einzelfirma) is mandatory. At this income threshold, VAT registration also becomes compulsory.
However, registering voluntarily—even below this threshold—offers significant advantages. A registered business is seen as professional and trustworthy. Operating without registration might make your business look like a hobby.
Where to Register
You’ll need to register with the Handelsregisteramt (Commercial Register) in the canton where your business is located. This step ensures your business is legally recognized.
Separate Registration as a Self-Employed Individual
Even if you decide not to register as a sole proprietorship, you must still register as a self-employed individual with the AHV/AVS (Ausgleichskassen/Compensation Office). This is a separate obligation that applies when:
You have at least three clients.
You earn a minimum of CHF 2,300 per year after expenses are deducted.
How to Register as Self-Employed
Visit the compensation office in the canton where your business is based. You can register online as well. Take note that once registered, you need to report the yearly income which will be the basis of your AHV Contributions.
💡 Pro Tip: If you’ve already registered as a sole proprietorship, the Ausgleichskassen will automatically send you the necessary forms for self-employment registration.
How to Register a Limited Liability Company (GmbH/SARL) in Switzerland
For those seeking a more formal structure with limited liability, registering a GmbH/SARL is an excellent option. Here’s how to set it up:
Step 1: Establish a Registered Office
Your business must have an official address in Switzerland, which will serve as its registered office.
Step 2: Determine Shareholders and Share Capital
Identify shareholders who will contribute to the company’s capital. The minimum required capital is CHF 20,000, which can be provided by one or multiple individuals.
Step 3: Draft Articles of Association
Prepare the Articles of Association (Statuten), detailing your company’s:
Purpose
Management structure
Share distribution
Other operational provisions
Step 4: Appoint Directors
Your company must have at least one director responsible for its operations. Directors can be Swiss residents or foreigners.
Step 5: Notarize Articles of Association
Have the Articles of Association notarized by a Swiss notary to ensure they comply with legal requirements.
Step 6: Open a Bank Account and Deposit Capital
Open a capital account at a Swiss bank and deposit the required share capital (CHF 20,000 or more). This account will remain blocked until the registration process is completed.
💡 Note: This capital account is separate from your company’s operational bank account, which you’ll open after registration.
Step 7: Register with the Commercial Register
Submit your notarized Articles of Association, director and shareholder details, and other required documents to the Handelsregisteramt (Commercial Register) in your canton.
Step 8: Obtain Identification Numbers
Once registered, you’ll receive a unique identification number (UID) from the Swiss Federal Tax Administration (Eidgenössische Steuerverwaltung).
Want to learn more about navigating these registrations?
Watch this video for a detailed explanation of the registration types, what they mean for your business, and how to ensure you’re meeting your legal obligations.
FREE RESOURCES TO HELP YOU SUCCEED
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About the Author
Hi! I’m Vena Verga-Danemar, an Onlinepreneur Legal Strategist. As both a lawyer and an online business owner, I’ve helped dozens of coaches, consultants, and course creators legally start and grow their businesses using strategies that don’t require working 24/7.
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