GmbH / AG Formation Cost Calculator Switzerland 2026
This calculator estimates the real cost of starting a GmbH or AG in Switzerland in 2026, including notary, commercial register, fiduciary fees and the first year of running costs. Choose your structure (GmbH from CHF 20,000 share capital, AG from CHF 100,000 with CHF 50,000 paid-in), your canton, the number of founders and whether you'll use a fiduciary. A typical GmbH founded in Zurich with CHF 20,000 capital and a fiduciary costs around CHF 3,500–4,500 in one-off fees, plus CHF 4,000–8,000 in ongoing annual accounting and AHV. The tool also compares GmbH vs AG vs Einzelfirma so you can see which structure is cheapest for your stage. Last updated June 2026.
How to use this calculator
- 01Pick GmbH or AG — share capital and notary cost differ.
- 02Select the canton — notary tariffs vary widely (ZH/GE highest, ZG lowest).
- 03Enter your share capital (min CHF 20,000 GmbH / CHF 100,000 AG).
- 04Tick whether you'll use a fiduciary or do it yourself.
- 05Read the one-off total and the annual running cost estimate.
- •GmbH formation: CHF 2,000–5,000 one-off in most cantons.
- •AG formation: CHF 4,000–8,000 one-off (higher notary + capital block).
- •Commercial register fee: CHF 600 base + CHF 100 per extra page.
- •Annual fiduciary / accounting: CHF 2,000–8,000 depending on volume.
- •Audit is only mandatory above CHF 5M revenue or 250 employees.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to start a GmbH in Switzerland?
Plan for CHF 2,000–5,000 in one-off fees (notary, commercial register, fiduciary) on top of the CHF 20,000 share capital, which stays in your business account.
Is the share capital really blocked?
It is only blocked until the company is registered (usually 2–4 weeks). After registration the CHF 20,000 (GmbH) or CHF 50,000 (AG) can be used for normal business expenses.
GmbH or AG — which is cheaper?
A GmbH is cheaper to start and run for one or two founders. An AG makes sense from CHF 100k capital, multiple shareholders or if you want anonymous shareholders.
Do I need a fiduciary?
Not legally, but a fiduciary is highly recommended for the bookkeeping, VAT and annual close. Budget CHF 2,000–8,000 per year depending on the number of invoices.
When is an audit required?
Only above two of: CHF 20M balance sheet total, CHF 40M revenue, 250 employees (ordinary audit), or CHF 5M revenue (limited audit). Most SMEs can opt out with an 'opting-out' declaration.
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