Business
The GmbH and the AG, with real minimum-capital requirements and a resident representative
The Code of Obligations governs company law. The limited liability company (GmbH/Sàrl) needs CHF 20,000 of fully paid capital, and the stock corporation (AG/SA) needs CHF 100,000 with at least CHF 50,000 paid in. At least one person able to represent the company must be resident in Switzerland.
Key rules
- A GmbH requires CHF 20,000 minimum capital, fully paid up.
- An AG requires CHF 100,000 nominal capital, with at least CHF 50,000 paid in.
- At least one director or manager with signing authority must be resident in Switzerland.
- Incorporation is by public deed before a notary and entry in the commercial register.
Governing law
- Code of Obligations (OR/CO), company lawArticles on the GmbH and the AG
- Commercial Register OrdinanceRegistration in the cantonal commercial register
In practice
The Swiss-resident representative rule catches many foreign founders, who must appoint a local director or manager with signing authority. A 2023 company-law reform introduced capital in foreign currency and more flexible capital bands.