Having briefly introduced business legal forms in the last article, we now ask who is actually permitted to form a business.
Sole proprietorship
Generally, any natural person may establish a Swiss sole proprietorship. A legal person cannot do so.
The founder need not reside in Switzerland, but then requires a work and residence permit.
General partnership
A general partnership requires at least two founders who are natural persons.
The founders need not reside in Switzerland, but then require work and residence permits.
Limited partnership
A limited partnership requires at least one natural person as general partner, meaning the person with unlimited liability. The limited partner may be a natural or legal person.
The founders need not reside in Switzerland, but then require work and residence permits.
GmbH
One natural or legal person may form a GmbH alone.
However, the GmbH must be represented by at least one person, such as a director or manager, resident in Switzerland.
Company limited by shares
An AG needs only one shareholder, who may be a natural or legal person.
However, the AG must be represented by at least one person, such as a director or board member, resident in Switzerland.
We are happy to help with further questions.