Buy a Swiss Shelf Company: Fast Market Entry & Legal Benefits 2025

One of the most efficient ways to start a business in Switzerland is by acquiring a shelf company — a legal entity already incorporated and available for purchase. These entities may have been created solely for resale or might have previously conducted limited commercial operations. Regardless of their history, their inactive status and readiness for acquisition qualify them as “shelf companies.”

A shelf company in Switzerland is typically a limited liability company (GmbH) or a joint stock company (SA). These are the most common forms available for ready-made purchase, and they are immediately compliant with the provisions of the Swiss Code of Obligations.

Swiss shelf companies registered as GmbH or SA can be used for a wide variety of business purposes — from e-commerce and retail to innovation, technology, and manufacturing.

Our company formation consultants in Switzerland offer full support in verifying the company's legal status, preparing for the acquisition, and managing the post-sale procedures.

A ready-made (shelf) company in Switzerland can serve a broad range of strategic and operational purposes. Designed for flexibility and immediate functionality, these companies provide a shortcut into the Swiss market and can be adapted to various business plans.

• Launching new operations in specific industries without the delays of standard incorporation procedures;

• Integrating foreign business history into Swiss operations — especially useful for companies expanding into Switzerland who want to demonstrate longevity;

• Improving creditworthiness when applying for loans or financing from Swiss banks. Many banks value an older incorporation date when assessing risk;

• Entering into joint ventures or forming strategic partnerships with Swiss companies or public institutions;

• Serving as the legal base for establishing subsidiaries or branches of foreign parent companies.

Although less common, shelf companies may also be used to meet urgent licensing or regulatory deadlines, when time constraints make traditional registration impossible.

Our Swiss business setup specialists can assist with structuring the company for any of these purposes and ensure full compliance with local regulations.

When purchasing a Swiss shelf company, buyers receive a comprehensive set of legal and administrative documents, ensuring immediate legitimacy and operational readiness. These documents are provided upon the official transfer of ownership.

The core step in acquiring a shelf company is the signing of the share transfer agreement. This document finalizes the sale and confirms the change in ownership. In many cases, this can be conducted remotely through a local representative or notary.

While acquiring a shelf company is generally faster, buyers should be aware that it can be more expensive than founding a new company due to administrative and legal preparations already completed.

Our team of corporate formation experts in Switzerland provides full guidance on verifying the authenticity and completeness of all documents, including advice on legal amendments required post-acquisition.

After acquiring a Swiss shelf company, the new owner typically undertakes several changes to align the entity with their business plans and legal identity. These changes must comply with Swiss commercial regulations and be officially registered.

All changes must be submitted to the Swiss Commercial Register. Depending on the canton, some updates may require notarized resolutions or declarations.

Additionally, certain sectors may require a business license or special authorization. This applies particularly to regulated activities such as finance, pharmaceuticals, or cross-border services.

Our legal consultants in company restructuring can guide you through each step of the amendment process, from document drafting to registration and regulatory compliance.

Investors aiming to establish a business in Switzerland often turn to shelf companies for the convenience and speed they offer. Acquiring a ready-made entity removes many of the time-consuming steps usually associated with standard company formation.

Shelf companies in Switzerland are often used by both individuals and corporations looking for a seamless entry into the Swiss commercial landscape. They offer a way to bypass incorporation delays while still providing a solid legal foundation.

Buyers should be aware that signing a formal purchase agreement is mandatory, outlining the terms of sale and transfer of shares. Our Swiss company law specialists provide assistance in preparing and validating these contracts.

Buying a shelf company in Switzerland can be a smart move for entrepreneurs and investors who wish to enter the Swiss market quickly and with enhanced business credibility. This approach comes with a number of distinct benefits that align with specific business goals.

• Expedited timeline – the acquisition and transfer of ownership can be completed within 1–2 working days;

• Operational continuity – some shelf companies come with established bank accounts, tax numbers, and existing infrastructure;

• Longevity advantage – an older incorporation date may help in negotiations, client trust, and tender eligibility;

• Legal flexibility – the new owner may freely change the company’s name, address, directors, and business scope;

• Access to key sectors – certain industries in Switzerland may have time-sensitive entry requirements which shelf companies can fulfill.

Although limited liability companies (GmbH) are the most commonly offered shelf entities, stock corporations (SA) are also available, particularly for more complex or international operations.

Before purchasing, it is crucial to ensure that the company has no hidden liabilities or legal issues. A thorough due diligence investigation is strongly recommended, including reviewing tax filings, banking history, and official extracts from the Swiss Commercial Register.

Our experts offer complete support throughout the acquisition process, from contract drafting to document verification and transition assistance.

In Switzerland, the tax treatment of shelf companies is identical to that of newly registered businesses. Once the company is transferred to a new owner, it must undergo standard registration with the Swiss tax authorities, ensuring full compliance.

• Federal corporate income tax: fixed rate of 8.5% on profit after tax;
• Cantonal and municipal taxes: vary by region, starting at approximately 11.34% in Lucerne, and increasing based on canton and commune;
• Value-added tax (VAT): standard rate of 8%, with lower rates for certain goods and services.

A shelf company does not benefit from any tax exemptions based on its prior status. Once operational, it is subject to all ordinary tax obligations, including:

• Corporate income tax filings;
• VAT registration (if applicable);
• Withholding taxes on dividends and interest (subject to double tax treaties);
• Payroll and social contributions if hiring employees.

Entrepreneurs should also take into account the potential impact of cantonal tax rulings, which may allow for specific deductions, exemptions, or reductions based on the company's structure or business plan.

For a detailed evaluation of your tax obligations and planning options, our Swiss tax advisors and accountants can assist with compliance, registration, and reporting.