Setting up an association in Switzerland is attractive for many foreigners – because an association offers a flexible structure for charitable, cultural, or private projects – and all without having to be a resident. Whether in Zug or Zurich: Here you will find out how to set up an association in Switzerland as a foreigner.
The most important points at a glance:
- Establishing an association without having to be a resident: You can establish and run an association in Switzerland without having to be a Swiss resident.
- Simple structure and little bureaucracy: an association offers maximum flexibility and minimal administrative hurdles.
- Efficient processing: with professional support, the start-up process is quick and easy.
Why set up an association in Switzerland?
An association in Switzerland is an ideal choice for initiatives that want to be active socially, culturally, or athletically – without pursuing commercial interests. This comes with certain advantages:
- Flexibility and minimal formalities: setting up an association is easy and requires only a few formal steps. Often, a written agreement between at least two people is sufficient.
- Legal independence: an association is considered an independent legal entity and offers clear structures for members and projects. Low start-up costs: an association can be founded without minimum capital, which makes it a cost-effective option for many initiatives.
Can I set up an association as a foreigner without a domicile in Switzerland?
Yes, Swiss legislation allows the formation of an association for persons who are not a resident in Switzerland. Whether in Zug or Zurich: you should consider some requirements:
- Association board: at least one board member should ideally be based in Switzerland to ensure smooth communication with authorities. However, this is not a mandatory requirement, and with us you can easily meet this requirement.
- Association headquarters: the association must provide an official address in Switzerland. Many international associations use a domiciliation service that provides a legal address.
Advantages of a Swiss association:
- Legal independence and protection: an association in Switzerland is a legal entity and can conclude contracts, hold property, and act independently.
- Tax exemption for non-profit purposes: if the association pursues non-profit purposes, it can benefit from tax incentives. To do so, the association must submit an application for tax exemption to the responsible tax office.
- Independent structure and self-determination: the association can act independently and implement projects independently of the personal interests of the founding members.
- Simple member management: the association form allows a clear structure and easy administration of the members as well as transparency in decision-making.
- Low administrative costs: since there is no obligation to keep books or audit, the administrative burden for the association remains manageable.
Legal requirements:
- Founding documents: the association's articles of association form the basis of every association. It defines the purpose, membership structure, and organization and must be recorded in writing.
- General meeting: at least one general meeting per year is mandatory. This is where important decisions about the purpose, financing, and board of the association are made.
- Association address: the association needs a Swiss address to serve as its official headquarters. This address must be entered in the commercial register if the association carries out a commercial activity.
Procedure and costs of establishment:
Setting up an association in Switzerland is quick and can be implemented within a few days. The following steps and costs are to be expected:
- Drafting the articles of association: the articles of association lay the foundations of the association and are ideally prepared by professionals to meet all legal requirements.
- Founding meeting: At this meeting, the association is officially founded and the board is elected. The association can then be entered in the commercial register, if necessary.
- Costs: the start-up costs for an association are low. Only the preparation of the articles of association and, if necessary, the entry in the commercial register will incur minor expenses.
Our service: support in setting up the association
Setting up an association in Switzerland is easy, but can be even more efficient with professional help. We will help you to create the right documents and to complete all the formalities smoothly.
Benefits we offer you:
- Complete support and documentation: from the preparation of the articles of association to the founding meeting and communication with the authorities – we will handle the entire process.
- Optimized association structure: together with you, we will draw up a charter that clearly defines your goals and ensures the long-term success of your association.
- No domicile necessary: you do not need your own domicile in Switzerland. We provide the required address and ensure the legal registration of the association.
- Speed and experience: thanks to our experience in dealing with the Swiss authorities and our network of service providers, we ensure a smooth start.
With our support, you can establish your Swiss association quickly and professionally. We take care of the entire process, so that you can concentrate on your association's goals. We are looking forward to meeting you!
