Geneva: a Business-Friendly Environment
Geneva, a cosmopolitan city in the heart of Europe, is one of Switzerland’s most dynamic economic hubs. Renowned for its robust banking system, political stability, and strict legal framework, Geneva attracts investors and entrepreneurs—particularly in sectors such as international trade, finance, technology, and consumer goods.
Setting up a business in Geneva offers a competitive economic environment, attractive taxation, and access to a vast international business network.
Common Legal Structures in Geneva
1. Limited Liability Company (SARL)
- Minimum share capital: CHF 20,000 (must be fully paid in)
- Liability: Limited to the amount of the share capital
- Number of shareholders: Minimum 1 (natural or legal person)
- Management: At least one manager must reside in Switzerland
2. Corporation (SA)
- Minimum share capital: CHF 100,000 (at least CHF 50,000 must be paid in)
- Liability: Limited to the share capital
- Number of shareholders: Minimum 1
- Administration: Board of Directors with at least one Swiss-resident member
Company Formation Process
- Choose a legal form
- Draft the articles of association
- Block share capital in a Swiss bank account
- Notarize the incorporation act
- Register with the Geneva Commercial Register (10–15 business days)
- Register for social insurance and VAT if applicable
Corporate Taxation in Geneva
Since the Swiss tax reform (RFFA), Geneva applies a competitive combined corporate tax rate (federal, cantonal, and municipal).
| Net Annual Profit | Effective Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| Up to CHF 500,000 | Approximately 13.99% |
| Above CHF 500,000 | 13.99% |
Note: Switzerland does not withhold tax on dividends paid to EU-resident shareholders under the EU Parent-Subsidiary Directive (if properly declared).
Other Legal Obligations
Accounting
SARLs and SAs must maintain full commercial books, including balance sheet and income statement.
Auditing
- Ordinary audit: Required if two of the following are met for two consecutive years:
- Balance sheet total ≥ CHF 20 million
- Revenue ≥ CHF 40 million
- Staff ≥ 250 employees
- Limited audit: Default for small companies
Beneficial Ownership Register
Since 2023, all Swiss companies must record beneficial owners holding more than 25% of shares or voting rights.
Opening a Swiss Business Bank Account
Swiss banks apply rigorous KYC and AML procedures. Required documentation includes:
- Articles of association
- Incorporation deed
- Business plan
- Proof of funds’ origin
- IDs/passports of beneficial owners
Why Geneva Appeals to Foreign Investors
- Multilingual environment (French, English, German)
- Proximity to EU markets without being an EU member
- Legal and banking stability
- Host to global institutions and multinational HQs
- Tax incentives for internationally active companies
Damalion Facilitates Company Setup in Geneva
Damalion assists entrepreneurs, investors, and family offices with structuring and launching their Swiss operations. Our services include:
- Choosing the optimal legal structure
- Introductions to notaries and fiduciaries
- Bank introductions in Geneva
- KYC/AML documentation assistance
- Ongoing tax and accounting compliance
- Provision of Swiss-resident directors (if needed)
Confidentiality. Legal accuracy. Global expertise. Damalion delivers a seamless company setup experience in Geneva.
Geneva combines fiscal advantages, global connectivity, and institutional stability—making it a strategic base for entrepreneurs and investors alike. Whether you’re in tech, finance, or global trade, Switzerland remains one of the best jurisdictions for business.
Let Damalion guide your successful entry into the Swiss market—quickly, securely, and professionally.
Top 10 Business Hotels in Geneva
1. Beau‑Rivage Genève
13 Quai du Mont‑Blanc, 1201 Geneva, Switzerland
2. Hotel d’Angleterre
17 Quai du Mont‑Blanc, 1201 Geneva, Switzerland
3. Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues Geneva
33 Quai des Bergues, 1201 Geneva, Switzerland
4. La Réserve Genève Hotel & Spa
301 Route de Lausanne, 1293 Bellevue, Switzerland
5. InterContinental Genève
7‑9 Chemin du Petit‑Saconnex, 1209 Geneva, Switzerland
6. Eastwest Hotel by Malone
6 Rue des Pâquis, 1201 Geneva, Switzerland
7. Hotel N’vY Geneva
18 Rue de Richemont, 1202 Geneva, Switzerland
8. Warwick Geneva
14 Rue de Lausanne, 1201 Geneva, Switzerland
9. Hotel Bristol Geneva
10 Rue du Mont‑Blanc, 1201 Geneva, Switzerland
10. Mandarin Oriental Geneva
1 Quai Turrettini, 1201 Geneva, Switzerland