Set Up a Sole Proprietorship
The simplest and fastest way for freelancers, consultants, and individual entrepreneurs to start a business in Switzerland. Begin operating under your own name with minimal administrative hurdles.
Owned and run by one individual, directly tied to you.
Why Start as a Sole Proprietor?
For many individual entrepreneurs, starting as a sole proprietor offers unmatched simplicity and control.
No Share Capital Required
Since the branch is part of the parent company, there is no requirement to deposit a separate share capital in Switzerland.
Simple and Fast Setup
The registration process is minimal, especially if your annual turnover is under CHF 100,000, allowing you to get started very quickly.
Full Control & Profits
As the sole owner, you have complete control over all business decisions, and all profits belong to you directly.
Simplified Accounting
For businesses with revenue under CHF 500,000 per year, simplified "cash-basis" accounting is often sufficient.
Requirements to Register a Sole Proprietorship
While simpler than a corporation, there are key requirements to be aware of. We ensure you meet all legal obligations.
Residency Status
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.
Unlimited Liability
This is the most critical point to understand. As there is no separate legal entity, the owner is personally liable for all business debts with their entire private assets.
Company Name
The business name must contain the owner's surname.
Commercial Register
Registration is optional if your annual turnover is below CHF 100,000, but it becomes mandatory once you exceed this threshold.
Social Security (AHV)
As a self-employed person, you are required to register with the social security compensation office (AHV) and make contributions.
Sole Proprietorship vs. GmbH: A Quick Comparison
The primary choice for a solo entrepreneur is between the simplicity of a sole proprietorship and the protection of a GmbH. The key difference is liability.
Feature | Swiss Sole Proprietorship |
Swiss GmbH (LLC) |
Legal Status
| Not a separate legal entity | Independent Swiss Company |
Liability
| Unlimited Personal Liability | Limited to the company's assets |
Share Capital
|
✓ None required | ✗ Required (CHF 20k ) |
Autonomy
|
Swiss residency required | Swiss resident director required (can be provided) |
As your business grows, you can convert your sole proprietorship into a GmbH to protect your assets.
Learn more about the benefits of a Swiss GmbH.
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Start Your Freelance Business in Switzerland
Are you ready to formalize your independent business activities? Contact our specialists for a consultation. We can help verify your eligibility, explain the implications of unlimited liability. However we do not provide registration services for Sole Proprietorship.
