LLC or Corporation? The Right Legal Form Decides.
When founding in Switzerland, you make one of the most important decisions early: AG or GmbH? Both protect private assets – but differ significantly.
The GmbH: Manageable and Efficient
The GmbH is the preferred choice for entrepreneurs who want to start in a manageable, efficient way with direct influence. The minimum capital is CHF 20,000 and must be fully paid in. The shareholders are visible in the commercial register and can simultaneously act as managing directors. At least one person with signing authority and residence in Switzerland is required.
Ideal for startups, SMEs, and entrepreneurially managed companies.
The AG: Scalable and Investor-Ready
The AG stands for scalability, investor readiness, and professional external appearance. It requires minimum capital of CHF 100,000, of which at least CHF 50,000 must be paid in. The owners remain anonymous, and the company is managed by the board of directors, with at least one board member residing in Switzerland also required.
The AG is particularly suitable for growth-oriented companies, participation models, and structured succession solutions.
What Many Underestimate
Both AG and GmbH formation must be notarized in Switzerland – including articles of association, founding documents, and proof of capital.
The Decisive Question
The decisive question is therefore not "AG or GmbH?", but rather: Which structure fits your strategy, your capital, and your future vision?
We accompany you from the choice of legal form through notarial certification to registration in the commercial register – efficient, legally secure, and tailored to your goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
5 answers about this topic
The main difference lies in the minimum capital (AG: CHF 100,000, GmbH: CHF 20,000) and anonymity. With the GmbH, shareholders are visible in the commercial register; with the AG, shareholders remain anonymous.
For most startups, the GmbH is the better choice: lower capital, direct influence of the founders, and simpler structure. The AG becomes interesting when you plan to bring in investors or implement employee participation programs.
Yes, both AG and GmbH formation must be notarized in Switzerland. This includes articles of association, founding documents, and proof of capital.
Yes, a conversion is possible but requires notarial certification, a capital increase, and various formal steps. Therefore, plan ahead from the start.
At least one person with signing authority (GmbH: managing director, AG: board member) must have residence in Switzerland. This is a mandatory legal requirement.
Author
Jacqueline Bischof
Head of Legal & Notary
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