A Swiss shelf company is a pre-registered legal entity—typically an AG (Aktiengesellschaft) or GmbH (Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung)—that has never conducted business operations. These companies are held "on the shelf" by formation agents and sold to buyers who need immediate market entry. The primary advantage is speed: you can start operations within days after purchase, bypassing the standard registration timeline of several weeks. Shelf companies come with clean legal and financial histories, fully paid-in share capital as required by Swiss law, and an established incorporation date that enhances credibility with banks, partners, and regulatory authorities. For international entrepreneurs, tech startups, and investors seeking a stable European jurisdiction, a ready-made Swiss company offers a fast track to legitimacy and operational readiness. Whether you need a [holding structure](https://swissfirma.com/open-spv-company-switzerland/), a vehicle for asset protection, or a corporate presence to access EU markets, purchasing a shelf company eliminates the waiting period for notarization, capital deposit verification, and commercial register processing. Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and does not replace specialist advice. For legal, regulatory, and banking matters, consult a qualified professional. ## Our available Swiss shelf companies for sale We maintain a curated inventory of ready-made AG and GmbH companies registered in Switzerland's most business-friendly cantons. Each company has been incorporated, has no trading history, and is immediately available for transfer. Below are current examples from our portfolio:

Company ID	Type	Canton	Year	Capital	VAT	Bank	Transfer time	Price
AG2021-37	AG	Zug	2021	CHF 100,000 (50% paid-in)	Yes	No	1–3 days after notarization	CHF 12,500
GmbH2023-15	GmbH	Zurich	2023	CHF 20,000 (fully paid)	No	No	1–3 days after notarization	CHF 9,500
AG2020-50	AG	Geneva	2020	CHF 200,000 (100% paid-in)	Yes	No	1–3 days after notarization	CHF 14,000
AG2012-44	AG	Zug	2012	CHF 500,000 (100% paid-in)	Yes	No	1–3 days after notarization	CHF 22,500
GmbH2022-33	GmbH	Zurich	2022	CHF 50,000 (fully paid)	No	No	1–3 days after notarization	CHF 11,500
AG2015-04	AG	Zug	2015	CHF 50,000 (100% paid-in)	Yes	No	1–3 days after notarization	On request
AG1995-11	AG	Zurich	1995	CHF 100,000 (100% paid-in)	No	No	1–3 days after notarization	On request
AG2021-65	AG	Zug	2021	CHF 100,000 (100% paid-in)	Yes	No	1–3 days after notarization	CHF 9,500
GmbH2019-03	GmbH	Geneva	2019	CHF 20,000 (fully paid)	No	No	1–3 days after notarization	CHF 12,500
AG2018-18	AG	Zug	2018	CHF 100,000 (100% paid-in)	Yes	No	1–3 days after notarization	CHF 12,500
AG2024-05	AG	Zurich	2024	CHF 100,000 (50% paid-in)	Yes	No	1–3 days after notarization	CHF 12,500
GmbH2020-20	GmbH	Geneva	2020	CHF 20,000 (fully paid)	No	No	1–3 days after notarization	CHF 11,800

All companies are debt-free, have no outstanding liabilities, and comply with current Swiss commercial register requirements. We conduct comprehensive due diligence on each entity before offering it for sale. {{cta:cta-1}} ## Why buy a shelf company? Common use cases and benefits Purchasing a ready-made Swiss company addresses specific business needs that [new incorporation](https://swissfirma.com/new-company-vs-shelf-company-switzerland/) cannot satisfy as quickly or effectively. Here are the primary scenarios where shelf companies deliver strategic value:

Key Benefits of a Swiss Shelf Company

Purchasing a pre-registered entity delivers immediate strategic advantages for specific business goals.

→

Instant Market Entry

Start operations within days, bypassing weeks of registration and notary delays.

✓

Enhanced Credibility

An established incorporation date builds trust with banks, partners, and in tenders.

•

Simplified Financing

Companies with a track record are often viewed as lower risk by financial institutions.

→

Holding & Investment

Ideal structure for owning assets, IP, or subsidiaries, leveraging Swiss treaties.

✓

Regulatory Readiness

Satisfies minimum age requirements for certain licenses and permits immediately.

•

Confidentiality

Original founders remain private; only new owners/directors are registered publicly.

Infographic: Primary advantages driving the purchase of a Swiss shelf company.

- Instant market entry: Start commercial operations within 24–48 hours after purchase and registry updates, avoiding notary wait times and capital deposit delays. - Enhanced credibility and trust: An established incorporation date signals stability to banks, suppliers, and clients. Companies with several years of age are more competitive in tenders and public procurement processes that require minimum operational history. - Simplified access to financing: Banks and financial institutions view companies with a track record—even if dormant—as lower risk, facilitating credit approvals and better loan terms. - Confidentiality: The original founders' identities remain private; only the new owners and directors are registered publicly after transfer. - [Holding and investment structures](https://swissfirma.com/open-spv-company-switzerland/): Shelf companies are ideal for creating holding entities to own subsidiaries, real estate, or intellectual property, leveraging Switzerland's extensive network of double taxation treaties. - Licensing and regulatory approvals: Certain licenses and permits require a company to have been in existence for a minimum period; a shelf company satisfies this requirement immediately. ## AG vs. GmbH: which Swiss shelf company is right for you? Choosing between an AG and a GmbH depends on your business model, capital requirements, and governance preferences. Both forms offer limited liability, but they differ in structure, transferability, and regulatory obligations. AG requires CHF 100,000 capital (minimum CHF 50,000 paid-in); GmbH requires CHF 20,000 fully paid. At least one person domiciled in Switzerland must be an authorized company representative.

AG vs. GmbH: Visual Comparison

Key structural and operational differences to inform your choice of legal entity.

AG

Aktiengesellschaft

•Capital: CHF 100,000 (min. 50% paid)
•Ownership: High anonymity; shareholders not public
•Transfer: Shares freely transferable
•Management: Board of Directors required
•Best for: Larger corps, investors, international business

"Perceived as more established, preferred for larger transactions and raising capital."

GmbH

Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung

•Capital: CHF 20,000 (fully paid)
•Ownership: Lower anonymity; members are public
•Transfer: Requires consent of other members
•Management: Managing Director(s)
•Best for: SMEs, startups, closely-held companies

"Suitable for simpler governance, family enterprises, and smaller operational scale."

Common Ground: Both offer limited liability and require at least one Swiss-resident authorized representative.

Schematic: Side-by-side analysis of Switzerland's two primary limited liability company structures.

Comparison of ready-made AG and GmbH companies in Switzerland
Parameter	AG (Aktiengesellschaft)	GmbH (Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung)
Minimum share capital	CHF 100,000 (CHF 50,000 paid-in)	CHF 20,000 (fully paid)
Anonymity of owners	Higher; shareholders not publicly listed (except in special cases)	Lower; all members registered in commercial register
Transfer of shares	Easier; shares freely transferable unless restricted in articles	More restricted; requires consent of other members
Management structure	Board of directors (minimum 1 Swiss resident director)	Managing directors (minimum 1 Swiss resident manager)
Liability	Limited to share capital	Limited to share capital
Reputation	Perceived as more established for [international business](https://swissfirma.com/why-invest-in-switzerland/)	Suitable for SMEs and family-owned enterprises
Taxation	Corporate tax varies by canton; dividend exemption available	Corporate tax varies by canton; simpler structure
Banking perception	Higher credibility; preferred for larger transactions	Suitable for startups and smaller operations

AG is the preferred choice for larger corporations, companies planning to raise capital from investors, or businesses seeking maximum transferability and [international credibility](https://swissfirma.com/why-invest-in-switzerland/). GmbH suits smaller enterprises, startups, and closely held companies where control and simpler governance are priorities. From a shelf company perspective, AGs are more commonly available because they offer broader appeal to international buyers and easier share transfer procedures. Bearer shares are abolished; only registered shares remain to ensure traceable ownership. ## The 5-step Swiss shelf company transfer process Acquiring a shelf company involves a structured legal procedure to ensure clean transfer of ownership and compliance with Swiss commercial law. The process typically takes 2–3 weeks from initial selection to full operational control.

The 5-Step Transfer Process

A structured legal procedure ensuring clean ownership transfer and full compliance with Swiss law. Typically completed within 2-3 weeks.

Selection & Due Diligence

Choose a company. We verify it's debt-free and compliant.

Share Purchase Agreement

Signing the legal contract detailing terms and warranties.

Notarization

Mandatory certification of transfer by a Swiss notary public.

Commercial Register Update

Filing changes to make new ownership publicly visible.

Handover & Control

Receive all documents and full legal control to start operations.

Start the Process

Schematic: Standard pathway for acquiring and activating a Swiss shelf company.

Step 1: Company selection and due diligence You choose a shelf company from our inventory based on type (AG or GmbH), canton, and age. We conduct comprehensive due diligence to verify the company has no debts, hidden liabilities, tax arrears, or compliance issues. This includes checking the commercial register extract, confirming no pending lawsuits, and reviewing all corporate documents. Our due diligence pack includes: - Commercial Register extract (≤3 months) - Betreibungsamt debt clearance certificate - Bank certificate confirming share capital is intact - Seller's liability declaration (no contracts, employees, tax debts) - Notary statement of dormancy Step 2: Signing the share purchase agreement (SPA) Once due diligence is complete, we prepare a share purchase agreement detailing the purchase price, payment terms, warranties, and transfer conditions. The SPA is drafted in the official language of the canton and reviewed by both parties. Step 3: Notarization The share transfer and any changes to the board of directors or managing directors must be notarized by a Swiss notary public. If you cannot travel to Switzerland, we can arrange a power of attorney allowing a representative to sign on your behalf. The notary verifies identities and ensures all documents comply with Swiss law. Step 4: Commercial register update (Handelsregister) After notarization, we submit the updated articles of association, new shareholder register, and director appointments to the cantonal commercial register. The registry processes the changes, after which the new ownership and management structure become publicly visible. Step 5: Handover and full control You receive all corporate documents, company seals, access to any existing bank accounts (if applicable), and full legal control. At this point, you can begin business operations, [open new bank accounts](https://swissfirma.com/bank-account-in-switzerland-your-next-steps/), and make any further changes to the company name, address, or business purpose. {{cta:cta-1}} ## Swiss shelf company costs: a transparent breakdown The total cost of acquiring a shelf company exceeds the price of registering a new entity, but the premium reflects immediate availability, clean history, and time savings. Understanding the cost structure helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises. ### What makes up the final price?

Understanding the Total Cost

The purchase price is one component. A transparent breakdown of typical costs for a standard AG transaction.

Company Purchase Price

Base cost varies by age, type (AG/GmbH), and canton. Reflects immediate availability and clean history.

Example: CHF 12,500 - 22,500+

Paid-in Share Capital

Remains in the company's balance sheet. AG: min. CHF 50,000. GmbH: CHF 20,000 (fully paid).

AG: CHF 50,000 | GmbH: CHF 20,000

Notary & Registry Fees

Fixed tariffs for certifying share transfers and updating the commercial register (Handelsregister).

Approx. CHF 1,500 - 3,000

Service Package

Due diligence, SPA drafting, coordination, filings, and 1-year registered address.

Included in purchase price or quoted separately

Estimated Total

CHF 55k-75k

for a standard AG shelf company

✓Includes CHF 50k paid-in capital
✓Transparent, no hidden fees
✓Full compliance guaranteed

Get a Precise Quote

Infographic: Typical cost structure for acquiring an AG shelf company in Switzerland. GmbH costs are generally lower.

- Company purchase price: The base cost depends on the company's age, type (AG or GmbH), and canton. Older companies with established incorporation dates command higher prices due to enhanced credibility. - Notary fees: Swiss notaries charge fixed tariffs for certifying share transfers and director changes. Fees vary by canton and complexity. - Commercial register fees: Filing changes with the cantonal Handelsregister incurs administrative fees for processing new director and shareholder entries. - Service provider fees: Our full-service package includes due diligence, SPA preparation, notary coordination, registry filings, and post-purchase support. ### What's included in our service package?

Included Services

✓ Complete due diligence audit
✓ Share purchase agreement drafting
✓ Notary appointment coordination
✓ Commercial register filing and follow-up
✓ Registered office address for 1 year
✓ Post-purchase advisory support

Estimated total cost: - GmbH shelf company: CHF 25,000–35,000 (including CHF 20,000 share capital) - AG shelf company: CHF 55,000–75,000 (including CHF 50,000 paid-in capital) These figures assume a standard transaction with no special complications. Complex structures or additional services (such as nominee director arrangements) increase costs accordingly. Disclaimer: Costs vary by canton, company age, and service provider. Consult a specialist for precise estimates. ## Legal, compliance & registration FAQ ### How do you guarantee the "cleanliness" of the company and AML compliance? We conduct rigorous due diligence on every shelf company before offering it for sale. This includes verifying the company's status in the commercial register, confirming no outstanding debts or tax liabilities, and checking for any legal claims or enforcement proceedings. Our procedure fully complies with the Swiss Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA), which mandates identification and verification of beneficial owners, continuous updating of client data, and adherence to transparency obligations. Recent reforms restrict trading inactive or over-indebted companies and tighten ownership transparency obligations. We verify whether involved persons are actual ultimate beneficial owners (UBOs) or controllers of assets, ensuring reliable ownership information. ### What is the role of the commercial register (Handelsregister)? The Handelsregister is Switzerland's official public registry of companies, maintained at the cantonal level. It records essential company information including legal form, registered address, directors, and authorized signatories. In Switzerland, GmbH members are listed in the commercial register; AG shareholders are not. The register publishes directors, signatories and the registered address. When you purchase a shelf company, the new shareholder and director information is submitted to the registry after notarization. Once processed, the changes are published in the Swiss Official Gazette of Commerce (SOGC), making the new ownership structure publicly visible. You can verify any Swiss company's current status and ownership through the central index at [zefix.ch](https://www.zefix.ch). ### Is it legal to buy a shelf company in Switzerland? Yes, purchasing shelf companies is legal in Switzerland, subject to compliance with commercial law and anti-money laundering regulations. However, recent reforms introduced restrictions: we sell only active, compliant, debt-free entities. All shelf companies we offer are active, compliant, and debt-free. ### Regulated sectors: SECO permit for staff leasing Staff leasing requires SECO authorization; buying a shelf company doesn't replace the permit. We help prepare capitalization and guarantee. Any business engaging in staff leasing must secure approval from SECO. Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and does not replace specialist advice. For regulatory and licensing matters, consult a qualified professional. {{cta:cta-1}} ## Opening a Swiss bank account for your shelf company A shelf company does not automatically come with a bank account. [Opening a corporate account](https://swissfirma.com/swiss-account-for-us-owned-corporations-trusts-foundations/) in Switzerland requires updated company documentation, verified identity of Swiss-resident directors, and compliance with strict anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) regulations. Requirements for account opening: - Notarized passports of all directors and shareholders - Commercial register extract (not older than 3 months) - Articles of association and shareholder register - Proof of business activity and source of funds - Beneficial ownership declaration Banks re-onboard companies after ownership change (KYC/UBO/business model). Even if an account exists, expect full due diligence. The process typically takes 2–4 weeks, and remote account opening via video identification is possible if you provide a comprehensive document package. We assist clients with bank account applications, leveraging our relationships with Swiss financial institutions to streamline the process and improve approval rates. Disclaimer: Banking requirements and procedures vary by institution. This information is general in nature and does not replace specialist advice. ## Key decisions & common mistakes ### How to choose the right canton for your shelf company Canton selection impacts your corporate tax rate, administrative efficiency, and business reputation. The most popular cantons for shelf companies are Zug, Zurich, and Geneva, each offering distinct advantages.

Choosing Your Canton: A Comparative Overview

Canton selection impacts tax rates, administration, and business environment. The most popular choices for shelf companies.

Zug

~11.9%

Corporate Tax Rate

Known as "Crypto Valley". Lowest tax, most business-friendly administration.

Best for:

Fintech, International Corps, Tax Efficiency

Zurich

~19.6%

Corporate Tax Rate

Switzerland's financial capital. Diversified economy, extensive infrastructure and talent pool.

Best for:

Financial Services, Large Enterprises, Broad Market Access

Geneva

~14%

Corporate Tax Rate

Global hub for diplomacy and trade. Proximity to UN agencies and international organizations.

Best for:

NGOs, International Trade, Diplomacy, Commodities

For shelf companies: Zug-registered entities are most common due to their tax advantages, efficient administration, and strong international credibility.

Schematic: Key characteristics of Switzerland's leading business cantons for company registration.

Canton	Corporate tax rate	Specialization	Reputation
Zug	~11.9%	Fintech, blockchain, international corporations	Highest; known as "Crypto Valley"
Zurich	~19.6%	Financial services, diversified economy	Strong; Switzerland's financial capital
Geneva	~14%	International organizations, diplomacy	High; global hub for NGOs and trade

Zug offers the lowest corporate tax rate and the most business-friendly administration, making it the top choice for international companies prioritizing tax efficiency and regulatory ease. Zurich provides a larger, more diversified economy with extensive infrastructure, suitable for companies needing access to a broad talent pool and financial services. Geneva is ideal for businesses focused on international relations, trade, and organizations requiring proximity to UN agencies and global institutions. For shelf companies, Zug-registered entities are most common due to their tax advantages and international credibility. ## Additional services for your Swiss company

👤

Nominee director & shareholder

Swiss-resident representation and privacy with full UBO control via legal agreements.

📊

Accounting and legal

Bookkeeping, financial statements, tax compliance, legal advisory and monitoring.

🏢

Virtual office & domiciliation

Registered Swiss address, mail handling, and compliant corporate domicile.

### Nominee director & shareholder services A Swiss nominee director is officially registered as managing director to fulfill Swiss legal requirements, providing legal representation and administrative management without decision-making power. [Nominee shareholders](https://swissfirma.com/swiss-shareholders/) hold shares on behalf of beneficial owners under a legal agreement (Declaration of Trust), maintaining owner control over voting and dividends while ensuring privacy and compliance. ### Accounting and legal support We provide bookkeeping, statutory financial statements, tax compliance, and legal advisory to ensure your company meets Swiss regulatory and reporting obligations. Our services include preparation of annual accounts, VAT registration and filing, and ongoing compliance monitoring. ### Virtual office and domiciliation Our virtual office services provide a registered Swiss business address and administrative support such as mail handling and official contact point, fulfilling Swiss requirements for company domicile. This enables companies without physical premises to operate legally and maintain a professional Swiss presence. {{cta:cta-1}} ## Why choose SwissFirma? Our guarantees Our team: SwissFirma is a network of licensed Swiss corporate attorneys and tax consultants with over 10 years of experience in company formation and M&A transactions. Our specialists include members of cantonal bar associations and certified AML compliance officers. Our track record: We have successfully facilitated over 500 company registrations and shelf company transfers for international clients from 30+ countries, with a 98% client satisfaction rate. Our guarantees: - Complete due diligence on every shelf company - Transparent pricing with no hidden fees - Full compliance with Swiss commercial and AML regulations - Post-purchase support for banking, accounting, and legal matters - Registered office address and administrative services included Client testimonials: > "SwissFirma handled our AG purchase in Zug with complete professionalism. The process took exactly 3 weeks from selection to full control." — Michael R., CEO, international trading company > "The due diligence report gave us complete confidence in the company's clean history. We were operational within 48 hours of registry approval." — Sarah L., founder, [fintech](https://swissfirma.com/set-fintech-company-switzerland/) startup

Buy a ready-made Swiss shelf company (AG or GmbH)