In partnership with a legal consultant based in Switzerland, we support non-EU/EFTA citizens who wish to invest, establish a business, or develop their commercial activities in Switzerland.

Our objective is to provide professional, transparent and reliable support throughout the process, from the initial assessment of your plans to the establishment or acquisition of a Swiss business and, where applicable, the preparation of a residence application.

• Guidance on establishing and developing a business in Switzerland
• Support with Swiss company formation and company acquisitions
• Assistance with business and investment planning
• Guidance concerning Swiss regulatory requirements
• Support with real-estate investment and applicable restrictions, including Lex Koller
• Coordination with legal, tax and other professional advisers in Switzerland
• Assistance in preparing the documentation required for the relevant authorities

Our goal is to make your entry into the Swiss market as smooth, transparent and secure as possible.

Switzerland offers attractive opportunities for international entrepreneurs and investors. For non-EU/EFTA nationals, however, investing in Switzerland or establishing a Swiss company does not automatically create a right to residence.

Each residence application is assessed individually by the competent cantonal and federal authorities in accordance with Swiss immigration law.

This route may be suitable for entrepreneurs and investors who intend to establish, acquire or actively develop a business in Switzerland.

For non-EU/EFTA nationals seeking admission for self-employment, the proposed activity must demonstrate a lasting positive effect on the Swiss labour market and serve Switzerland's overall economic interests.

Relevant considerations may include:

• The quality and viability of the business plan
• Planned investment and financing
• Development of business activities in Switzerland
• Creation of employment and recruitment opportunities
• Expected turnover and profitability
• Market opportunities and long-term economic sustainability
• The applicant's professional qualifications and experience
• Compliance with applicable immigration and regulatory requirements

There is no automatic residence permit simply because an applicant invests a particular amount of money. The circumstances of the applicant and the proposed business are assessed by the competent authorities.

 Professional legal and tax advice should therefore be obtained before making an investment or relocation decision. 

Where the relevant requirements are satisfied and the application is approved by the competent Swiss authorities, an appropriate residence permit may be granted.

The type and duration of the permit depend on the individual circumstances and applicable Swiss immigration rules.

For certain financially independent non-EU/EFTA nationals who do not intend to pursue gainful employment in Switzerland, residence may be possible under specific conditions.

In certain cantons, qualifying foreign nationals may also be eligible for expenditure-based, commonly referred to as lump-sum, taxation.

The applicable requirements and tax arrangements vary according to the canton and the applicant's individual circumstances. Residence and taxation are separate legal matters and require individual assessment by the relevant authorities.

Depending on the chosen route and individual circumstances, applicants may be required to demonstrate:

• A valid legal basis for residence
• Sufficient financial resources
• A legitimate and documented source of funds
• Suitable accommodation in Switzerland
• Compliance with applicable immigration requirements
• Appropriate business documentation where residence is connected with entrepreneurial activity
• Any additional requirements imposed by the competent canton or federal authorities

Every case is different. Our approach begins with an assessment of your objectives and circumstances.

We can assist with:

1. Evaluating your proposed business or investment strategy
2. Identifying an appropriate Swiss canton and business structure
3. Preparing or reviewing your business plan
4. Establishing or acquiring a Swiss company
5. Coordinating legal and tax advice
6. Preparing supporting business and financial documentation
7. Assisting with the residence application process in cooperation with qualified Swiss professionals

Final decisions concerning residence permits are made exclusively by the competent Swiss authorities.

Obtaining a residence permit does not automatically lead to permanent residence or Swiss citizenship.

Permanent residence is subject to separate legal requirements.

For ordinary Swiss naturalisation, applicants generally need at least 10 years of qualifying residence in Switzerland and must hold a C permit when applying. Additional federal, cantonal and communal requirements, including integration requirements, also apply.

Switzerland offers an exceptional environment for entrepreneurs, investors and internationally active businesses, including:

• Political and economic stability
• A highly developed and competitive economy
• Strong legal and financial institutions
• Excellent international connectivity
• A highly skilled workforce
• High-quality healthcare and education
• An attractive environment for international business
• An outstanding quality of life

Whether you are considering establishing a new company, acquiring an existing business, investing in Switzerland or exploring a potential residence pathway, TradeSwiss can help you understand your options and coordinate the appropriate professional support.

We focus on practical business development combined with careful consideration of Swiss legal and regulatory requirements.

In partnership with legal and other professional consultants in Switzerland, we provide international clients with coordinated support for business establishment, investment and related residence matters.

This option is ideal for entrepreneurs and investors aiming to actively contribute to the Swiss economy.

• Minimum Investment: CHF some sustanable amount in a pre-approved Swiss company or in establishing a new business
• Requirements: 
  • the proposed business must demonstrate a sustainable positive effect on the Swiss labour market and overall economic interest; factors considered can include investment, businees development, employment and recruitment.
  • Business must demonstrate economic benefit to the canton
  • Clean criminal record and proof of financial means
• Permit Type: B Permit (temporary residency, renewable)
• Path to Citizenship: Eligible after 10 years of continuous residence

Designed for financially independent individuals who do not intend to work in Switzerland.

• Annual Tax Payment: CHF 250,000–1,000,000 depending on the canton
• No Need to Declare Global Income: Tax is based on estimated living expenses
• Popular Cantons: Geneva, Vaud, Ticino, Zug (Zurich does not offer this option)
• Permit Type: If the application is approved by the swiss authorities, a residence permit be issued.
• Path to Citizenship: After 10 years of qualifying residence, a person holding a C permit may be eligible to apply for ordinary naturaisation, subject to federal, cantonal and communal requirements. 

• Age: 18–55
• Non-EU/EFTA nationality
• Good health and clean criminal record
• Proof of accommodation in Switzerland
• Financial independence and legal source of funds

• Visa-free travel across the Schengen Zone
• World-class healthcare and education
• Stable economy and strong banking sector
• High quality of life and stunning natural beauty

If you're serious about making Switzerland your new home base, we can help you explore cantonal differences, prepare a business plan, or even draft your application strategy. Want to dive deeper into one of the routes?