TradeSwiss supports international entrepreneurs and investors who wish to establish, acquire or develop a business in Switzerland and explore the possibilities for relocation. 

In cooperation with a legal consultant based in Switzerland and other relevant professional advisers, we help you assess your options, prepare your business strategy and understand the applicable requirements.

Our objective is to provide clear, practical and transparent support—from the initial assessment of your plans to business establishment and, where appropriate, preparation of a residence application.
 

 - Guidance on establishing and developing a business in Switzerland
- Support with company formation and business acquisitions
- Assistance with business plans, investment planning and financial projections
- Assessment of suitable business locations and cantonal requirements
- Coordination with Swiss legal, tax, accounting and other professional advisers
- Assistance with supporting business and financial documentation
- Guidance on property investment and applicable Lex Koller restrictions
- Coordination of business-related residence planning with qualified Swiss professionals 

 For non-EU/EFTA nationals, investing in Switzerland or establishing a Swiss company does not automatically create a right to live or work in the country.

For admission based on self-employment, the proposed business must demonstrate a lasting positive impact on the Swiss labour market and serve Switzerland’s overall economic interests. 

 - The viability and sustainability of the business
- The applicant’s professional qualifications and experience
- Available financing and planned investment
- Creation or preservation of employment opportunities
- Demand for the proposed products or services
- Expected turnover, profitability and economic contribution
- Compliance with applicable legal and regulatory requirements 

  A convincing business plan and supporting documentation are central to the assessment.

There is no universal investment amount that guarantees residence approval. The capital needed to establish a company must not be confused with the requirements for a residence or work permit.

Applications are assessed individually by the competent cantonal and, where required, federal authorities. Depending on the circumstances, an approved application may result in an L or B permit, subject to applicable requirements and quotas. Renewals depend on continued eligibility.  ActivityResidence Without Gainful Employment 

 A separate residence assessment may be appropriate for individuals who intend to live in Switzerland without pursuing gainful employment.

Financial independence alone does not automatically establish eligibility. Applicants must qualify under an applicable immigration provision.

A retirement route may be available to individuals aged 55 or over who have particular personal connections with Switzerland and sufficient financial resources, subject to the relevant conditions.

In certain cases, residence may also be considered on the grounds of significant cantonal fiscal interests. Such applications require an individual assessment and approval by the competent authorities. 

Expenditure-Based Taxation 

Certain foreign nationals may qualify for expenditure-based taxation, sometimes called lump-sum taxation, in cantons where this arrangement is available.

It is generally intended for qualifying foreign nationals establishing Swiss tax residence for the first time, or after at least ten years abroad, who do not pursue gainful employment in Switzerland.

The calculation considers living expenses and statutory minimum requirements, including a control calculation. Eligibility, disclosure obligations and the resulting tax liability require individual tax advice.

Expenditure-based taxation and immigration permission are separate matters. A tax arrangement does not, by itself, guarantee a residence permit. 

 Property Investment in Switzerland

 Before purchasing Swiss property, it is necessary to assess the buyer’s nationality and residence status, the intended use of the property and any applicable restrictions under Lex Koller.

Depending on the transaction, cantonal authorisation may be required.

Ownership of a house, apartment or other property in Switzerland does not itself provide a right to Swiss residence. 

Planning Your Family’s Relocation

 If your plans include relocating with your family, family reunification requirements should be considered from the beginning.

The applicable conditions depend on your nationality, permit category and individual circumstances. Accommodation, financial resources, health insurance and relevant family documents should form part of the overall relocation assessment. 

Our Approach 

 1. Initial Assessment

We discuss your business objectives, nationality, professional background, available resources and relocation plans.

2. Business and Location Planning

We help assess your proposed activities, suitable locations, financing needs and possible business structures.

3. Professional Coordination

We coordinate the involvement of relevant Swiss legal, tax and other professional advisers.

4. Documentation and Applications

We assist with preparing and organising the business and financial documentation required for the relevant procedures.

5. Business Development 

 We support the practical planning of your entry into the Swiss market and the development of your commercial activities.

The sequence of company formation, investment and any immigration application should be agreed with the relevant advisers before substantial commitments are made.

Long-Term Residence and Citizenship

An initial residence permit does not automatically lead to permanent residence or Swiss citizenship.

Permanent residence is subject to separate requirements. Ordinary naturalisation generally requires at least ten years of qualifying residence, a C permit and compliance with federal, cantonal and communal conditions, including integration requirements. 

 Begin with a Clear Assessment

 Whether you are considering a new business, an acquisition, an investment or relocation with your family, careful preparation is the foundation for an informed decision.

TradeSwiss helps you understand the available options and coordinate the professional support appropriate to your circumstances.

 Contact TradeSwiss to discuss your plans for business, investment and a possible future in Switzerland. 

 This page provides general information and does not replace individual legal, tax or immigration advice. Requirements vary according to nationality, personal circumstances, business activity and canton. All applications remain subject to assessment and approval by the competent authorities. No investment amount, company formation, property purchase or tax arrangement guarantees residence, permanent settlement or Swiss citizenship.