For Non-Resident Founders — Switzerland

Open a Swiss Company
as a Non-Resident

You don’t need to live in Switzerland to own a Swiss company. But Swiss law requires at least one locally-resident director. Virtual Office Zug solves both challenges: a registered Zug address and a Swiss-resident director, so you can incorporate from anywhere in the world.

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The Non-Resident Challenge

Swiss Law Requires a Resident Director

Art. 718 CO (Swiss Code of Obligations): At least one member of the board of directors of a Swiss AG, or one manager of a GmbH, who is authorised to represent the company, must be domiciled in Switzerland.

This single requirement blocks thousands of international entrepreneurs every year. You have the capital, the business plan, and the motivation — but you cannot satisfy a rule that requires physical residence in a country where you do not live.

VOZ provides a qualified Swiss-resident director based in Zug who satisfies this legal requirement on your behalf, with clear governance agreements that protect your interests and maintain your control of the company.

The VOZ Solution

Everything You Need, Remotely

  • Registered Zug AddressCommercial-register grade address for the Handelsregister entry.
  • Swiss-Resident DirectorA qualified Zug-based director who satisfies Art. 718 CO requirements.
  • Remote Signing CapabilityIncorporation documents handled via apostille or Swiss embassy attestation.
  • Mail HandlingAll correspondence received, scanned, and forwarded within 24 hours.
  • Annual Compliance SupportMandatory general meetings, register filings, and AML obligations managed.
What You Will Need

Documents for Non-Resident Company Formation

Certified Passport Copy

A notarised or apostilled copy of your current passport from all beneficial owners and directors.

Proof of Address

A recent utility bill or bank statement (less than 3 months old) confirming your residential address.

Source of Funds Declaration

A brief explanation of the origin of the share capital, in accordance with Swiss AML requirements.

Step-by-Step

How to Open a Swiss Company From Abroad

1

Order Your VOZ Address

Select a plan on our pricing page. Your Zug registered address is activated within 48 hours. This is the address that will appear in the Handelsregister.

2

Complete KYC Online

Upload your identity documents through our secure portal. Our AMLA-compliant verification process is fully remote — no in-person appointment required.

3

Notarisation Abroad

The incorporation deed is prepared by a Swiss-affiliated notary. You sign it at a Swiss embassy or consulate in your country, or via apostille through a local notary.

4

Commercial Register Entry

Upon notarisation, your company is submitted to the Zug commercial register. Typical registration time: 5-10 business days. You receive the ZEFIX extract by email.

Frequently Asked Questions

Non-Resident Swiss Company FAQ

Yes. There is no restriction on foreign nationals owning 100% of the shares of a Swiss GmbH or AG. The residency requirement applies only to management, not ownership.
No. Being a director (Verwaltungsrat member of an AG or Gesellschafter/Geschäftsführer of a GmbH) does not in itself require a Swiss work permit. However, if you intend to physically work in Switzerland as an employee of the company, a work permit would be required.
You can replace the VOZ director at any time by passing a shareholders' resolution and filing an amendment at the commercial register. We require 60 days' notice. The process is straightforward and costs approximately CHF 300 in register fees.
No. You do not need to be physically present in Switzerland at any point as a shareholder. Only the Swiss-resident director (provided by VOZ) needs to be present. We recommend that board meetings be held in Switzerland at least annually to demonstrate substance, but this is an advisory recommendation rather than a strict legal requirement.
Start From Anywhere

Your Swiss Company, Fully Remote

Address activated in 48 hours. Swiss director, KYC, and company formation support. Trusted by founders in 40+ countries.