Frequently Asked Questions

Corporate tax in Switzerland is levied at federal and cantonal levels. The federal rate is a flat 8.5%. Cantonal rates vary between 11% and 19% depending on the canton. Effective combined rates range from approximately 12% to 24%. Rates may be adjusted by individual cantons each year.

A company is considered tax resident in Switzerland if its statutory seat or place of effective management is within Swiss territory. For individuals, residency is generally established by a primary home or habitual stay of at least 90 days. Specific rules apply for cross-border situations and double-tax treaties.

Corporate tax returns are typically due by the end of March of the year following the reporting period. Cantons may offer extensions upon request. Annual financial statements must be audited or reviewed in compliance with local requirements before submission.

VAT at the standard rate of 7.7% applies to most goods and services traded domestically. Exports are zero-rated if you provide proof of shipment outside Switzerland. Imports are subject to import VAT, which can be reclaimed if you are registered and use the goods for taxable activities.

Some cantons offer preferential rates or relief schemes for small and medium-size enterprises. Special provisions may apply to holding companies and mixed-activity entities. Eligibility criteria differ by region, so local consultation is recommended.

TaxAdvisorr publishes real-time updates on our website and newsletter. We monitor federal official gazettes, cantonal announcements and industry bulletins. Subscribers receive alerts when key regulatory or policy shifts occur.

Our editorial team in Zurich maintains direct contact with government bodies, industry associations and legal experts. News is verified on receipt and published on taxadvisorrnews.com within hours of official release.

Visit the subscription page on taxadvisorrnews.com, choose your plan and complete the sign-up form with name, company and email address. You will receive a confirmation link by email and the first issue later the same day.

Click the Contact Us link or call +41760089476. Provide your company name, contact details and a brief overview of your inquiry. Our support team will schedule a call or video conference at a convenient time.

Yes. We offer guides on entity selection, registration procedures and available incentives. Our resource library also includes case studies and checklists tailored to new ventures in Zurich and other Swiss regions.

Our content spans cross-border withholding, treaty benefits, permanent establishment criteria and reporting obligations for Swiss businesses active abroad or foreign entities operating in Switzerland.

We employ a team of legal and tax specialists who verify every item against primary sources, including federal gazettes and cantonal tax authorities. Updates are timestamped, and older versions remain archived for reference.