Buy a Shelf AG in Switzerland.
Acquire a verified, debt-free Swiss stock corporation (Aktiengesellschaft) and start operations within 24-48 hours. Every company we sell is legally audited, registered in the commercial register, and ready for immediate transfer.
Share Capital
CHF 100,000
Transfer Time
24-48 Hours
Debt Status
Guaranteed Debt-Free
Location
Zurich, CH
What Is a Shelf Company AG?
A shelf company AG is a pre-registered Swiss Aktiengesellschaft (stock corporation) that was legally incorporated, entered into the Swiss commercial register (Zefix), and then kept dormant until a buyer acquires it. In German legal terminology, it is called a Mantelgesellschaft.
The AG is governed by Articles 620-763 of the Swiss Code of Obligations (OR) and requires a minimum share capital of CHF 100,000 (Art. 621 OR). It is the premier corporate structure in Switzerland, offering shareholder anonymity, broad credibility, and suitability for raising capital.
When you buy a shelf AG from us, you acquire a fully constituted legal entity with its own commercial register number, articles of association, and deposited share capital. The company has never traded, employed staff, or entered into contracts. It is a clean slate.
What's Included
- Verified Swiss AG with commercial register entry
- CHF 100,000 share capital deposited
- Notarized debt-free guarantee
- Clean commercial register extract
- Articles of association (Statuten)
- Full legal and financial audit report
Why Buy a Shelf AG Instead of Forming New?
Speed
A new AG formation takes 2-4 weeks. A shelf AG transfer takes 24-48 hours. If you need to sign a contract, open a bank account, or close a deal next week, the shelf company is the only path. Register a new company instead if time is not a factor.
Established History
A company that has been registered for months or years carries more weight with banks, partners, and counterparties than an entity formed yesterday. The commercial register date is public record.
Easier Banking
Swiss banks are more receptive to companies with an established commercial register history. Opening a corporate account is significantly faster and smoother with a shelf company than with a newly formed entity.
Immediate Credibility
Entering negotiations with a registered Swiss AG signals seriousness and permanence. For international deals, M&A transactions, and investor discussions, an established entity commands trust.
The Acquisition Process
Inquiry & Selection
Contact us to receive a curated list of available shelf AGs. Each listing includes the formation date, registered domicile, share capital structure, and current status. We provide full transparency so you can select the entity that best fits your requirements.
Due Diligence & Documentation
Review the company's audit report, certificate of freedom from debt, and commercial register extract. Simultaneously, we collect your identification documents, proof of address, and source of funds documentation for anti-money laundering compliance. Read our complete guide to buying a shelf company for a detailed walkthrough.
Notary Transfer
The share transfer deed and change of board of directors are executed before a Swiss public notary. This is the legal moment of ownership change. For remote buyers, a power of attorney allows our team to represent you at the notarial appointment. The notary files the changes with the commercial register office.
Commercial Register Update
The cantonal commercial register processes the change of ownership, new board composition, and any amendments to the articles of association. This is typically completed within 24-48 hours of the notarial filing, as governed by the Commercial Register Ordinance (HRegV).
Handover & Operations
You receive the updated commercial register excerpt, share certificates, articles of association, board meeting minutes, and all company documentation. The company is fully operational. We can immediately assist with opening a bank account, setting up a registered office, and arranging accounting and tax services.
Legal Framework
The Swiss AG is regulated by Articles 620-763 of the Swiss Code of Obligations (OR). Key provisions governing the shelf company transfer process:
- Art. 621 OR Minimum share capital of CHF 100,000 for an AG. At least CHF 50,000 (50%) must be paid in at the time of incorporation.
- Art. 684 OR Transfer of registered shares requires endorsement and delivery of the share certificate, or an assignment declaration.
- Art. 718 OR At least one member of the board of directors must be resident in Switzerland and hold individual signatory power.
- Art. 706 OR Shareholders' general meeting can resolve on changes to the articles of association, including company name, purpose, and domicile.
All changes arising from the transfer (new board composition, registered office, company purpose) are filed with the cantonal commercial register in accordance with the Commercial Register Ordinance (HRegV) and published in the Swiss Official Gazette of Commerce (SHAB).
The commercial register is publicly accessible via Zefix (Central Business Name Index), maintained by the Federal Office of Justice. Every shelf AG we sell has a verifiable, public commercial register entry that you can inspect before purchase.
For a detailed comparison of entity types, see our AG vs GmbH comparison.
Our Guarantee
Comprehensive Audit
Every shelf AG undergoes a rigorous legal and financial audit before we list it for sale. We verify the company's status with the commercial register, tax authority, and debt enforcement office (Betreibungsamt). No exceptions.
Debt-Free Certificate
You receive a notarized certificate confirming zero outstanding debts, no pending litigation, no tax arrears, and no encumbrances. This guarantee is contractually binding and backed by our professional liability insurance.
No Hidden Liabilities
Our companies have never traded, never employed staff, and never entered commercial contracts. There are no legacy risks. The only record is the date of formation in the commercial register.
Who Should Buy a Shelf AG?
Foreign Entrepreneurs
International business owners who need a Swiss legal entity quickly for contracts, licensing, or market entry. Combined with a nominee director, you can operate a Swiss AG from anywhere in the world.
Fintech & Crypto Startups
Switzerland's regulatory clarity and Crypto Valley ecosystem make the AG the preferred structure for blockchain, DeFi, and fintech ventures. A shelf AG lets you launch in days, not weeks.
Investors & Holding Structures
The AG's shareholder anonymity and access to Switzerland's 100+ double taxation treaties make it ideal for international holding structures, asset protection, and investment vehicles.
Companies Needing Fast Swiss Presence
If you have a deal closing, a tender deadline, or a regulatory requirement that demands an operational Swiss entity within days, a shelf AG is the only viable solution.
Shelf AG at a Glance
Acquisition Timeline
Initial Inquiry & Company Selection
Contact us, review available shelf AGs, and select the entity that matches your requirements.
Due Diligence & KYC Documentation
Review audit reports and debt-free certificates. Submit your identification and source of funds documentation.
Notarial Share Transfer
Execute the share transfer deed and board resolution before a Swiss public notary. In-person or via power of attorney.
Commercial Register Filing
Notary files the ownership change, new board composition, and any amendments with the cantonal register.
Handover & Full Operations
Receive updated register excerpt, share certificates, and all company documents. You are fully operational.
Ready to Acquire Your Swiss AG?
Request our current inventory and pricing. Detailed dossiers with formation dates, domicile, and audit certificates are available for qualified buyers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a shelf company AG?
A shelf company AG (Aktiengesellschaft) is a Swiss stock corporation that was legally incorporated and registered in the commercial register, then kept dormant until a buyer acquires it. Also known as a Mantelgesellschaft, it allows you to take over a fully constituted legal entity and skip the weeks-long formation process.
Is buying a shelf company legal in Switzerland?
Yes, completely legal. The purchase and sale of shelf companies is a well-established practice in Switzerland. The transfer is governed by the Swiss Code of Obligations (Art. 620-763 OR) and the Commercial Register Ordinance (HRegV), and is executed through a notarized share transfer deed.
Is the company truly debt-free?
Yes. Every shelf AG we sell comes with a notarized certificate of freedom from debt. Our due diligence includes verification with the debt enforcement office (Betreibungsamt), the tax authority, and a full legal audit. The guarantee is contractually binding and backed by professional liability insurance.
How fast can I start operations?
The transfer of ownership typically takes 24 to 48 hours. Once the notary deed is signed, you are the legal owner and can begin conducting business immediately. The commercial register update is processed within the same timeframe.
Do I need to be a Swiss resident?
You do not need to be a Swiss resident to own a Swiss AG. However, Art. 718 of the Swiss Code of Obligations requires at least one director with individual signatory power to reside in Switzerland. If you live abroad, our nominee director service satisfies this requirement.
Can foreigners buy a Swiss shelf company?
Yes. There are no nationality restrictions on owning a Swiss AG. Foreign individuals and foreign legal entities can hold 100% of the shares. We regularly serve entrepreneurs, investors, and corporations from across Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and the Americas.
What documents do I need to buy a shelf AG?
You need a valid passport or government-issued ID (apostilled if non-Swiss), proof of address not older than 3 months, source of funds documentation for AML compliance, and a beneficial owner declaration. Corporate buyers additionally need a certificate of incorporation and board resolution.
How much does a shelf AG cost?
The total cost comprises the acquisition price (which varies based on the company's age, domicile, and features), notary and commercial register fees, and advisory fees. The CHF 100,000 share capital is already deposited and belongs to the company. Contact us for a customized quote.
Can I open a bank account with a shelf company?
Yes, and it is typically easier than with a newly formed company. Swiss banks favor entities with an established commercial register history. We provide bank account opening assistance with introductions to leading Swiss banks as part of our service.
What is a nominee director and do I need one?
A nominee director is a Swiss-resident professional who serves on the board to meet the legal residency requirement (Art. 718 OR). You need one only if no existing director lives in Switzerland. The nominee operates under a mandate agreement and does not interfere with day-to-day business.
What are the tax obligations after purchasing?
Your AG is subject to federal corporate income tax (8.5% on net profit), cantonal and communal taxes (varying by location), capital tax on equity, VAT if revenue exceeds CHF 100,000/year, and 35% withholding tax on dividends (reclaimable under double taxation treaties). Annual financial statements and tax returns are mandatory. Our accounting and tax team handles ongoing compliance.
Can I change the company name?
Yes. A name change requires a shareholders' general meeting resolution, a notarial amendment to the articles of association, and registration with the commercial register. The process takes 1-2 weeks. We handle the entire procedure on your behalf.
What is the difference between a shelf AG and a shelf GmbH?
The AG has CHF 100,000 minimum capital and offers shareholder anonymity (shareholders are not listed in the commercial register). The GmbH has CHF 20,000 minimum capital but all shareholders are publicly registered. The AG is preferred for international investors and larger enterprises; the GmbH suits SMEs. Compare with a GmbH or read our full AG vs GmbH comparison.
Can I buy a shelf AG remotely?
Yes. The entire process can be completed without visiting Switzerland. You grant an apostilled power of attorney to our legal team, who represent you at the notarial appointment. All documents are exchanged via secure courier. We have completed hundreds of remote transfers for international clients.
Complementary Services
Nominee Director
Fulfill the Swiss residency requirement with a professional board member domiciled in Switzerland.
Bank Account
Expedited corporate account opening with leading Swiss banks. Introductions and application support included.
Registered Office
Prestigious business address in Zurich's financial district for your company's legal domicile.
Accounting & Tax
Ongoing bookkeeping, annual financial statements, tax returns, and compliance for your Swiss AG.