Switzerland Business Licensing

Licensing of Business Activity

Switzerland Business Licensing

Normally, no special business licences are required as long as an individual has obtained the necessary work and residence permits.

Registration of a business in the Commercial Register will automatically result in a general business licence (certificate) being issued. In some specific sectors including banking, insurance, transport, and employment services, a special licence is required.

For those starting a business selling alcohol or tobacco, or establishing a gaming business such as a casino, special licences are required before commencement of business – often evidence of previous experience (eg running a bar) is required. Other activities that require a licence include hotels, restaurants, physicians, dentists, pharmacists and attorneys. Where a business licence is required, this usually takes about a week to obtain.

This article is an extract from Personal Business Tax Guide , dated 4th January 2011, for the latest version please click here .

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