Starting a business in the canton of Zug
Starting a business in Canton Zug: the path to your own business.
Starting a business in the canton of Zug
The Canton of Zug is renowned for its advantageous tax conditions and high quality of life, making it an ideal destination to establish a Public Limited Company (PLC). The Zug Commercial Registry facilitates an efficient registration process for entrepreneurs. The region offers a strong economic infrastructure, particularly in the areas of finance, trade and IT. Zug is home to many international companies, providing a strong network and numerous business opportunities. The central location and well-developed communication routes add to the canton's attractiveness. In addition, Zug has numerous co-working spaces and start-up centers that support new businesses.
Start a Public Limited Company (PLC) in Canton Zug: here's how to do it!
Calculate a non-binding offer
Enter your start-up project conveniently online and benefit from cost sharing from our partners. In just a few steps you can compose your customized start-up package.
Enter the details of the Public Limited Company (PLC)
After calculating the non-binding offer, enter your company details. At this point you can order the incorporation of the company.
Get in touch
Our attorneys will contact you within the specified time (often less than 24 hours). You will receive all incorporation documents, discuss any uncertainties, and schedule a personal consultation.
Check the documents
You can consult, print and sign all the constituent documents at your convenience at home.
Authenticate the signature
At this point you must obtain official certification of the signature (e.g., from the local authority). This confirms that the signature is indeed yours.
Entry in the commercial register
We submit all incorporation documents to the commercial register and ensure that your company is successfully registered in the commercial register. In the case of corporations, the paid-up capital is transferred to a business account after publication and is available to your company.
Celebrate
Congratulations on the successful founding of your company. Your company is now active and can operate.
Definition of Public Limited Company in Switzerland
We believe that personalized advice is the key to best understanding our clients' individual needs and challenges and offering tailored solutions.
Starting a Public Limited Company in Switzerland: Advantages
- One of Switzerland's lowest corporate tax rates — a major draw for holding and trading companies
- Home to many international corporations, creating a dense business network
- Excellent infrastructure and central location between Zurich and Central Switzerland
- Well-developed fintech and crypto/blockchain sector (Crypto Valley)
- Efficient Commercial Registry with streamlined registration processes
- High quality of life attracting international entrepreneurs and skilled professionals
Starting a Public Limited Company in Switzerland: Disadvantages
- Among the highest commercial rents and cost of living in Switzerland
- Strong competition from established multinationals in finance and trading sectors
- Small local market — most businesses must target national or international clients
- High demand for office space can limit availability for growing businesses
- Networking access often requires existing connections or paid memberships
What should I consider if I want to start a Public Limited Company (PLC) in Canton Zug?
A minimum share capital of CHF 100,000 is required for the establishment of a PLC, of which at least CHF 50,000 must be paid up.Info: The founder of a PLC or LLC cannot draw on pension fund money because he is employed in his own company on the basis of an employment contract. He is therefore not considered self-employed under OASI law.
PLC requires at least one shareholder and one managing director, which can be the same person. A managing director with signature authority must also be a resident of Switzerland
The audit is mandatory for 10 or more employees. Under Article 727 CO, a PLC is subject to ordinary audit if it exceeds two of the following thresholds in two consecutive fiscal years: Balance sheet total: 20 million francs - Turnover: 40 million francs - Full-time employees: 250.
Your PLC is subject to value added tax only if its turnover exceeds CHF 100,000. However, you can also voluntarily apply VAT to a lower turnover.
What you need to know about the Public Limited Company!
Key Facts: Starting a Business in Zug
- Share capital: CHF 100,000 minimum (at least CHF 50,000 paid in at founding)
- Registration: Zug Commercial Registry (Handelsregisteramt)
- Corporate tax rate: approx. 11.9% (cantonal + federal combined) — among Switzerland's lowest
- Key sectors: Finance, trading, crypto/blockchain, holding companies, commodities
- Language: German
How to Start a Business in Zug: Step by Step
- Define your business plan — Outline your company's purpose, structure, and capital plan before starting the legal process.
- Appoint founders and draft articles of association — At least one founder is required. The articles must specify share capital, purpose, and governance.
- Open a capital deposit account — Deposit the required share capital (minimum CHF 50,000) in a Swiss bank in the company's name.
- Notarise the founding documents — Have the articles of association and founding declaration authenticated before a Zug notary.
- Register with the Zug Commercial Registry — Submit notarised documents, proof of capital deposit, and details of the board of directors.
- Obtain required licences and permits — Register for VAT if applicable and obtain any crypto or financial sector-specific approvals as needed.
- Set up operations — Open a business bank account, register employees with social insurance, and establish your accounting processes.
Download the Checklist
Download the checklist for preparing for self-employment with a PLC in PDF format now!