Entrepreneurs and investors do not necessarily need to relocate to Switzerland to establish a Swiss company. Foreign residents can generally own a GmbH or AG while remaining abroad, provided the business meets Swiss requirements regarding its registered office, representation and administration.
A key part of this structure is creating a genuine and properly organised presence in Switzerland.
A Swiss Domicile for International Founders
Every Swiss company requires an official registered office in Switzerland. The address is recorded in the Commercial Register and serves as an official location for correspondence with authorities and other parties.
Entrepreneurs who do not maintain their own premises can use a professional company domicile in Switzerland. This allows founders to establish the required local address while continuing to manage their international activities from abroad.
Meeting the Local Representation Requirement
Although shareholders can live outside Switzerland, a Swiss GmbH or AG must be capable of being represented by at least one person resident in Switzerland. Depending on the legal structure, this may be a director, managing director or board member.
The Swiss SME Portal provides further information about establishing a business in Switzerland as a foreign national.
Organising the Company From Abroad
Foreign founders must also consider banking, accounting, tax and compliance requirements. Banks may review beneficial ownership, source of funds, business activities and expected transactions before opening a corporate account.
For entrepreneurs starting from the beginning, professional support with company formation in Switzerland can help coordinate the required legal and administrative steps.
Owning a Swiss company does not automatically require the shareholder to relocate. Separate immigration requirements may apply if the entrepreneur later intends to live and work in Switzerland personally.
Your Swiss Business Presence Without Relocation
With an appropriate legal structure, registered domicile and local representation, a Swiss company can be established while its owners remain abroad. DomizilAdresse supports international entrepreneurs in creating the local foundation needed for a compliant and professional Swiss corporate presence.
Contact DomizilAdresse
📞 +41 44 688 04 14
🏢 Chamerstrasse 176, 6300 Zug