Guide
Setting up an AG (company limited by shares) in Switzerland
In short: An AG (Aktiengesellschaft, SA) needs share capital of at least CHF 100,000. On incorporation, at least 20% of each share and at least CHF 50,000 in total must be paid in. It is founded by notarial deed; the AG only exists once it is entered in the commercial register.
Step by step
- Choose a business name. It must include the legal form (e.g. “AG” or “SA”) and be clearly distinguishable from all registered names. Check on Zefix.
- Draft the articles of association and decide who sits on the board of directors.
- Pay in the share capital. At least CHF 100,000, of which at least CHF 50,000 paid in.
- Incorporation at the notary. The AG is founded by notarial deed, the articles are adopted and the governing bodies appointed.
- Commercial register entry. Only then does the AG acquire legal personality.
- Representation in Switzerland. The AG must be able to be represented by a person resident in Switzerland (a board member or a director).
- Social insurance. Anyone working in their own AG is its employee: AHV/IV/EO, accident and unemployment insurance are compulsory, and a pension fund from an annual salary of CHF 22,680 (2026).
- Transparency register and VAT. Report the beneficial owners (deadlines); from CHF 100,000 in revenue from taxable supplies, register for VAT within 30 days.
After incorporation
- Accounting: an AG must always keep full accounts and prepare annual financial statements.
- Taxes: the AG is taxed separately. Dividends are also taxed as income of the shareholders; capital tax is added.
- General meeting: every year within six months of the end of the financial year.
- Audit: small AGs with no more than ten full-time positions can opt out of the limited audit.
Costs (guide values from the SME Portal)
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Advice | CHF 1,000 to 4,000 |
| Notary (deeds of incorporation and share certificates) | CHF 800 to 2,500 |
| Commercial register (share capital up to CHF 200,000) | CHF 600 |
For small businesses, a GmbH is often the simpler corporation: Setting up a GmbH in Switzerland
Frequently asked questions
How much capital do I need for an AG?
The share capital is at least CHF 100,000. On incorporation, at least 20% of each share must be paid in, and at least CHF 50,000 in total.
Can I set up an AG on my own?
Yes. According to the federal SME Portal, an AG can be founded by a single shareholder.
Does my AG need an auditor?
With no more than ten full-time positions on annual average, the limited audit can be waived with the consent of all shareholders. The opt-out must be notified to the commercial register before the start of the financial year.
GmbH or AG: what is the main difference at the start?
Mainly the capital: a GmbH needs CHF 20,000 paid in full, an AG CHF 100,000 share capital, of which at least CHF 50,000 must be paid in.
Sources
- Art. 621 CO – Share capital
- Art. 629 CO – Formation of the AG
- Art. 632 CO – Minimum contributions
- Art. 643 CO – Acquisition of legal personality
- Art. 727a CO – Limited audit and opting out
- SECO SME Portal: the limited company (AG)
- FSIO: Social insurance guide for SMEs (German, as of 1 January 2026)
All information checked on 29 October 2026.