Why Not All Shelf Companies Are Equal: Key Due Diligence Steps
2025-10-21 15:59
A Smart Way to Start—But Choose Carefully
Buying a shelf company (also called a ready-made company) offers one of the fastest ways to begin operating a business in Switzerland. It allows you to bypass the time-consuming incorporation process and immediately take ownership of an existing legal entity.
However, not all shelf companies are created equal. Some may come with hidden liabilities or outdated records, while others are perfectly maintained and ready to use. To make the right decision, you need proper due diligence—and a trusted Swiss partner to guide you.
At DomizilAdresse, we provide fully compliant, verified Swiss shelf companies (GmbH and AG) that are legally registered, debt-free, and ready for immediate transfer.
1. Verify the Company’s Legal and Financial Standing
Before purchasing a shelf company, it’s essential to confirm that it’s in good standing—free of debts, unpaid taxes, or previous business activities.
You should request:
An official commercial register extract
Confirmation of no past business transactions
Tax clearance documentation or proof of inactivity
Updated Articles of Association
At DomizilAdresse, each shelf company we offer is pre-screened and verified by Swiss professionals, ensuring you acquire a clean, compliant company ready to operate.
2. Choose a Reliable Swiss Partner
The quality of your shelf company depends largely on the provider’s credibility. Reputable firms maintain companies transparently and follow strict AML (Anti-Money Laundering) and KYC (Know Your Customer) procedures.
With DomizilAdresse, you benefit from years of fiduciary expertise and a strong legal foundation. Our specialists manage every aspect of the process:
Ownership and shareholder transfer
Notarization and registry updates
Appointment of Swiss directors
Legal address and domiciliation services
3. Ensure the Company’s Domicile Is Active and Compliant
Every Swiss company must maintain an official business address (domicile) within the country. Even dormant shelf companies require this to stay legally registered.
Through our domicile address services in Zug and other Swiss business hubs, we ensure that your company’s registered seat is fully compliant with all Swiss legal requirements.
4. Match the Company Structure to Your Business Plans
When selecting a shelf company, check that the legal form (GmbH or AG), share capital, and business purpose fit your goals.
Our advisors can help you:
Change the company name or activity
Update directors or shareholders
Adjust the company’s share capital
Transfer the domicile to your preferred canton
All adjustments are handled quickly and professionally to ensure your business starts seamlessly.
5. Transfer Ownership Securely
The transfer of a shelf company involves notarized documents and registry updates. DomizilAdresse coordinates this process to ensure legal precision and speed.
Your new company will be:
Legally transferred within a few days
Fully compliant with Swiss regulations
Ready for immediate business activity
Start Your Swiss Business with Confidence
Buying a shelf company can save you valuable time—if it’s done correctly. By choosing DomizilAdresse, you’re assured of a clean, compliant, and professionally managed Swiss company.
Our experts handle everything—from verification and notarization to domiciliation—so you can focus on what matters most: growing your business in Switzerland.