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  The Easy Expansion Option    

Establish a Swiss Branch Office


Expand your international business with a legal presence in Switzerland. Registering a branch of your foreign company is a streamlined way to access the Swiss market while remaining part of your parent organization.


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Understanding the Swiss Branch Office


A Swiss branch office (Zweigniederlassung) is a legally dependent arm of a foreign parent company. While it can conduct business, sign contracts, and have its own staff in Switzerland, it is not a separate legal entity.

The branch operates under the name and liability of the foreign head office, making it a direct extension of your existing corporate structure..





Important Note: A branch is one of several ways to enter the Swiss market. For a full overview of all options, see our main guide to company formation in Switzerland.  

Why Register a Branch Instead of a Subsidiary?


For many established international companies, a branch office offers a more straightforward path to market entry.

No Separate Share Capital

Since the branch is part of the parent company, there is no requirement to deposit a separate share capital in Switzerland. 

Simplified Financial Reporting

Accounting can often be simpler, as profits are consolidated with the head office.. 

Direct Brand Recognition

The branch operates under the parent company's name, leveraging your existing brand reputation and credibility from day one

Faster Setup

The administrative process for registering a branch can be more direct than forming a new corporation from scratch.

Requirements to Register a Branch in Switzerland

We manage the entire registration process with the Commercial Register. Here's what's needed:

Parent Company Documents

Certified copies of the parent company's articles of association, an excerpt from its commercial register, and a board resolution to establish a Swiss branch.

Swiss Representative

The branch must appoint at least one representative with legal residency in Switzerland. We can provide this representative for you.

Registered Address

A physical address in Switzerland is mandatory for the branch to operate. Learn about Domicile Services.

Business Purpose

The purpose of the branch must be consistent with the purpose of the parent company.

Branch vs. Subsidiary: A Quick Comparison

The primary decision is between a legally dependent branch and an independent subsidiary. The choice impacts liability and autonomy.

Feature

Swiss Branch Office

Swiss Subsidiary (GmbH/AG)

Legal Status

 Dependent on Parent Company

 Independent Swiss Company

Liability

Parent Co. is fully liable 

 Limited to the Swiss company's assets

Share Capital

 None required

    Required (CHF 20k or 100k)

Autonomy

Limited by Head Office  

High degree of autonomy  


If a separate legal entity with limited liability is a better fit, explore the benefits of a Swiss GmbH or Swiss AG.

Transparent Pricing for Your Swiss Branch Formation

Our packages are designed for entrepreneurs who want a predictable, all-in-one solution. It's everything you need to get started.

Starter Package

 Our "Starter" package is perfect for new GmbH formations, including the incorporation, a registered address, and full accounting setup on our digital platform.

 Swiss Branch Registration
 Registered Domicile Address
 Resident Director Service
 Digital Platform Management

Resource Center

Relevant Articles, WIki and Blogs

Expand Your Business into Switzerland

 Is a Swiss branch office the right strategy for your company's expansion? Contact our experts for a free consultation. We'll assess your business needs and provide a clear, step-by-step plan for establishing your presence in the Swiss market.


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