Relocation and lump-sum taxation, Swiss foundations and trusts, succession and estate planning for international families moving wealth into Switzerland.
Our Private Clients & Trusts servicesSwitzerland draws international families for its stability, its tax regimes and its place at the centre of European wealth structuring, though the tools differ from what many arrive expecting. A Swiss family foundation under article 335 of the Civil Code is deliberately narrow: it may meet a family's costs of upbringing, education or support, but a foundation that simply pays members an income is not permitted and is void. Families wanting a broader wealth-holding vehicle often use a Liechtenstein foundation instead.
Around that sit relocation and lump-sum taxation, trusts recognised under the Hague Convention, and succession planning across borders. The guides here explain what a Swiss foundation can and cannot do, how lump-sum taxation works, and how an international family plans a move into Switzerland without tripping forced-heirship or residence rules.
Setting up a Swiss foundation: the deed and endowment, charitable vs family purpose, tax exemption, state supervision and cost — how a Stiftung works in 2026.
How to Set Up a Swiss Foundation (Stiftung) in 2026: ReadHow a foreigner obtains a Swiss residence permit in 2026 — permit types L, B and C, EU/EFTA free movement, third-country quotas and routes without a job.
Swiss Residence Permit: How to Obtain One in 2026: ReadWhat a Swiss family foundation can and cannot do under art. 335 ZGB, why it is narrowly limited, and when a Liechtenstein foundation fits better.
Swiss Family Foundation (Familienstiftung) Explained: ReadHow to get a Swiss passport: the four routes to citizenship, ten-year residence rule, B1/A2 language levels, commune–canton–SEM timeline and 2026 fees in CHF.
Swiss Passport: How to Get Citizenship in 2026 (4 Routes): ReadWhat Swiss gun law allows in 2026: who needs a Waffenerwerbsschein, how foreigners and residents buy firearms legally, and which weapons stay banned.
Switzerland Gun Laws: Permits and Foreign Buyers in 2026: ReadOpening and running a Swiss bank account, including for non-residents: eligibility, source-of-funds checks, realistic minimums and choosing the right bank.
BankingSwiss corporate tax, VAT registration and rulings, bookkeeping and audit thresholds, and the cantonal rate differences that decide where to base a company.
Tax & AccountingForming and buying Swiss companies: GmbH, AG, holding structures and ready-made shelf entities, share capital and the commercial register process.
Company FormationDescribe your situation in a line or two. A partner replies within one business day, in English, German, French, Spanish or Italian. The first conversation is free and carries no obligation.
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