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Articles
- How to Set Up a Charitable Foundation in Switzerland: A Complete Guide
Switzerland has a long-established tradition of philanthropy and offers an attractive legal framework for individuals, families and organisations wishing to create a charitable foundation. A Swiss foundation can be used to support humanitarian, educational, scientific, cultural, environmental, religious or other public-benefit objectives. Once established, it becomes an independent legal entity with its own assets, governance and responsibilities. However, setting up a foundation in Switzerland involves considerably more than simply registering an organisation. The founder must determine the foundation's purpose, dedicate sufficient assets to that purpose, establish an appropriate governance structure, execute the foundation deed before a notary and complete the registration and supervisory procedures. Where tax-exempt charitable status is sought, the foundation must also satisfy separate tax requirements. This guide explains the main steps involved in establishing a charitable foundation in Switzerland and the issues founders should consider before proceeding.
- Family Reunification in Switzerland: Who Can Bring Their Family Members?
Moving to Switzerland does not always mean leaving your family behind. Swiss immigration law allows many foreign nationals and Swiss citizens to bring certain family members to Switzerland through family reunification. However, the conditions for family reunification in Switzerland vary considerably depending on the nationality and residence status of the person already living in Switzerland. A Swiss citizen, an EU/EFTA national and a third-country national holding a Swiss residence permit do not necessarily have the same rights. The nationality of the family member, the relationship between the parties, housing, financial resources and the time at which the application is submitted can all influence the outcome. Understanding which legal regime applies is therefore the first step when considering a family reunification application in Switzerland.
- Switzerland Extends Protection Status S Until 2028: What Changes for Ukrainians?
On 19 August 2026, the Swiss Federal Council announced an important decision concerning Ukrainian nationals and other persons seeking protection from Ukraine: Switzerland will maintain Protection Status S until at least 4 March 2028. At the same time, Switzerland is introducing additional restrictions on access to Status S for new applicants from 20 August 2026. The decision provides greater certainty for people who are already living in Switzerland under Status S, but it also marks a gradual change in Switzerland's approach to temporary protection. In particular, eligibility for new applicants is becoming more restrictive, while the first beneficiaries of Status S are approaching an important five-year residence threshold.
- Hiring Employees in Switzerland: Legal and Compliance Basics for Employers
Hiring employees in Switzerland requires more than agreeing on a salary. Employers must understand employment contracts, social insurance, accident insurance, payroll, working time rules and permit considerations before onboarding staff.
- Legal Compliance Checklist for Starting a Business in Switzerland
Starting a business in Switzerland requires more than registration. This guide explains the key legal and compliance points entrepreneurs should review before launching, hiring, invoicing or operating.
- Swiss VAT for Businesses: When to Register and What to Know
Swiss VAT can affect local and foreign businesses operating in Switzerland. This guide explains when VAT registration may be required, how the main rates work, and what practical mistakes businesses should avoid.
- Swiss Tax and Accounting Obligations for New Businesses
Starting a business in Switzerland comes with clear accounting, tax and VAT obligations. This guide explains the key points entrepreneurs should understand before operating, invoicing or filing returns.
- Choosing the Right Swiss Company Structure: Sole Proprietorship, GmbH or AG?
Choosing the right legal structure is one of the most important decisions when starting a business in Switzerland. This guide explains the key differences between a Sole Proprietorship, a Limited Liability Company (GmbH), and a Joint Stock Company (AG), helping entrepreneurs select the structure that best fits their business goals.
- Starting a Business in Switzerland: A Complete Guide for Foreign Entrepreneurs
Planning to establish a business in Switzerland? This guide explains the main legal structures, registration process, residence considerations, taxes, and practical steps foreign entrepreneurs should understand before launching a company.
- Retiring in Switzerland: Residence Permits for Foreign Pensioners
Retiring in Switzerland can offer stability, security and quality of life, but foreign pensioners must meet specific residence requirements. This article explains residence without gainful activity, financial means, personal ties, documents and key points to consider before applying.
- Retiring in Switzerland as an International Civil Servant: Residence After the Legitimation Card
International civil servants in Switzerland may need to apply for a residence permit after retirement or after losing their legitimation card. This article explains the key residence options, timing, documents, and points to consider before applying.
- Self-Employment in Switzerland: Independent Activity Work Permits Explained
Self-employment in Switzerland can be an option for entrepreneurs, consultants, freelancers and independent professionals, but approval depends on nationality, business viability, economic value, financial stability and cantonal requirements. This article explains the key points to understand before applying for an independent activity work permit.
- Swiss Work Permits: How Employment Authorisation Works in Switzerland
A Swiss work permit allows eligible foreign nationals to live and work in Switzerland, but the process depends on nationality, job type, employer sponsorship, and cantonal approval. This article explains the main requirements, documents, and practical points to understand before applying for work authorisation in Switzerland.
- Swiss Settled Status: Understanding the C Permit and Permanent Residence
The Swiss C Permit, often referred to as settled status or permanent residence, allows eligible foreign nationals who have lived in Switzerland for several years to obtain greater long-term residence security and more flexibility than temporary permits. This article explains the main requirements, benefits, and key points to consider before applying for a C Permit.
- Immigration to Switzerland: What Individuals and Families Should Know Before Applying
Moving to Switzerland can offer stability, opportunity, and a high quality of life, but the immigration process depends on nationality, purpose of stay, financial situation, and cantonal requirements. This article explains the main points to consider before applying for a Swiss residence or work permit.