Buy a Shelf GmbH in Switzerland.
Operational in 24–48 hours. All companies are verified, debt-free, and ready for immediate transfer. The ideal corporate vehicle for SMEs and service providers.
Share Capital
CHF 20,000
Capital Paid-In
100%
Transfer Time
24–48 Hours
Location
Zurich, CH
What Is a Swiss GmbH?
The GmbH (Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung) is Switzerland's equivalent of a limited liability company (LLC). Governed by Art. 772–827 of the Swiss Code of Obligations (OR), it is the most popular legal form for small and medium-sized enterprises in Switzerland.
A GmbH requires a minimum share capital of CHF 20,000, which must be 100% paid-in at the time of formation (Art. 773 OR). Unlike an AG, where shareholders can remain anonymous, GmbH quota holders are registered in the commercial register (Zefix) and publicly visible.
The GmbH structure offers simpler governance, lower formation costs, and a straightforward management framework — making it the preferred choice for consultants, freelancers going corporate, service companies, and international entrepreneurs seeking a Swiss business presence. If you are considering a corporation instead, you can compare with an AG or read our AG vs GmbH guide.
Why Buy a Shelf GmbH?
Speed to Market
Skip the 4–6 week formation process. A shelf GmbH is operational within 24–48 hours after notary transfer.
Lower Entry Cost
With a minimum capital of CHF 20,000 (versus CHF 100,000 for an AG), the GmbH is the most cost-effective Swiss corporate structure.
SME-Focused Structure
Simpler governance, fewer formalities, and flexible management make the GmbH ideal for lean operations.
Clean & Verified
Every shelf GmbH we offer is guaranteed debt-free, with clean commercial register records, verified articles of association, and full due diligence documentation.
Service Companies
Perfect for consulting firms, IT service providers, agencies, and professional services — the sectors that benefit most from the GmbH structure.
Immediate Credibility
A registered Swiss GmbH signals reliability to clients, banks, and partners — no waiting for formation to conclude.
Who Should Buy a Shelf GmbH?
A shelf GmbH is the right choice if you need a Swiss corporate entity quickly and cost-effectively. Typical buyers include:
- SMEs and startups that need to begin operations in Switzerland without the weeks-long formation process.
- Consultants and freelancers transitioning from sole proprietorship to a limited liability structure for credibility and liability protection.
- Service providers — IT companies, marketing agencies, financial advisors — who need a lean corporate vehicle.
- International entrepreneurs establishing a Swiss business presence for European market access.
- Investors and holding structures needing a ready-made entity for a specific transaction or project.
If you prefer to start from scratch instead, you can start a new GmbH from scratch or explore our full range of company formation services.
The Acquisition Process
Inquiry & Selection
Contact us to receive a list of available GmbH shelf companies. We provide full disclosures on historical records, formation dates, and current status for every entity in our inventory.
Due Diligence
Review the clean-slate documentation. Every GmbH we offer is guaranteed debt-free, with verified articles of association and a complete commercial register history. No hidden liabilities, no pending actions.
Notary Transfer
The transfer of GmbH quotas requires notarization under Swiss law (Art. 785 OR). The notary authenticates the quota transfer deed and the change of managing directors for maximum legal security.
Commercial Register Update
Within 24–48 hours, the commercial register is updated with the new quota holders and managing directors. You receive the updated extract and take full operational control of the entity.
Legal Framework
The Swiss GmbH is governed by Art. 772–827 of the Swiss Code of Obligations (OR) and the Handelsregisterverordnung (HRegV). Key legal requirements include:
- Minimum share capital: CHF 20,000, 100% paid-in at formation (Art. 773 OR).
- Managing director residency: At least one managing director with individual signatory power must be a Swiss resident (Art. 814 OR).
- Quota registration: All quota holders (shareholders) are registered in the commercial register — unlike AG shares, which can be held anonymously.
- Quota transfer: Requires a notarized deed (Art. 785 OR) and approval by the shareholders' meeting unless the articles of association provide otherwise.
- Registered office: Must maintain a registered office in Switzerland with a verifiable address.
What's Included
Verified Entity
Fully verified GmbH with clean commercial register history
Debt-Free Guarantee
Notarized certificate confirming zero liabilities
CHF 20,000 Share Capital
100% paid-in as required by Art. 773 OR
Articles of Association
Standard articles ready for amendment to your requirements
Commercial Register Extract
Updated extract reflecting new ownership within 48h
Transfer Support
Full coordination of notary, register, and handover process
Shelf GmbH at a Glance
GmbH vs AG Comparison
Buy Your Shelf GmbH Now
Verified, debt-free GmbH entities available for immediate transfer. Request current inventory and pricing.
Complementary Services
Nominee Director
Fulfill Swiss residency requirements with our professional managing director representatives.
Bank Account
Expedited opening of corporate accounts with leading Swiss banks.
Registered Office
Prestigious business address in the heart of Zurich's financial district.
Accounting & Tax
Ongoing compliance, bookkeeping, and tax optimization for your new GmbH.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a GmbH and an AG?
A GmbH (Gesellschaft mit beschrankter Haftung) requires CHF 20,000 minimum capital (100% paid-in), while an AG requires CHF 100,000 (50% minimum paid-in). GmbH quota holders are publicly registered, whereas AG shareholders can remain anonymous. The GmbH has simpler governance and lower costs — ideal for SMEs. Read our full AG vs GmbH guide for a detailed comparison.
What is the minimum capital requirement for a Swiss GmbH?
The minimum share capital is CHF 20,000, which must be 100% paid-in at the time of formation as required by Art. 773 OR. This is significantly lower than the CHF 100,000 required for an AG.
Is it legal to buy a shelf GmbH in Switzerland?
Yes, buying a shelf GmbH is entirely legal under Swiss law. The transfer of GmbH quotas is governed by the Swiss Code of Obligations (Art. 772–827 OR) and the Handelsregisterverordnung (HRegV). All transfers are executed through a Swiss public notary for maximum legal certainty.
How fast can I start operating after purchase?
The transfer typically completes within 24 to 48 hours. Once the notary deed is signed and the commercial register updated, you are the legal owner and can begin conducting business immediately.
Can a foreigner buy a shelf GmbH in Switzerland?
Yes, there are no nationality restrictions on GmbH ownership. However, at least one managing director with individual signatory power must be a Swiss resident (Art. 814 OR). We offer a nominee director service to fulfill this requirement.
What documents do I need to buy a shelf GmbH?
You will need a valid passport or national ID, proof of current address, a completed KYC (Know Your Customer) form, and source of funds documentation. The notary will also prepare the quota transfer agreement and updated articles of association for your signature.
How much does a shelf GmbH cost?
Pricing depends on the entity's age, history, and features. Every shelf GmbH includes CHF 20,000 fully paid-in capital, clean register records, and our debt-free guarantee. Contact us for current inventory and pricing.
Can I use a nominee director for my GmbH?
Yes. Swiss law requires at least one managing director to be a Swiss resident (Art. 814 OR). If you are based abroad, we provide a professional nominee director who fulfills this residency requirement while you retain full ownership and operational control of the company.
Can I open a bank account with a shelf GmbH?
Yes. A shelf GmbH with a clean history and verified debt-free status is well-positioned for corporate bank account opening. We assist with introductions to Swiss banks and facilitate the entire process.
Can I change the company name after purchase?
Yes. Renaming requires a shareholders' meeting resolution, an amendment to the articles of association, and registration with the commercial register. The name change process typically takes 1–2 weeks after the resolution is passed.
What are the tax implications of a Swiss GmbH?
A Swiss GmbH is subject to federal, cantonal, and municipal corporate income taxes. Effective rates vary by canton (approximately 12%–21%). Zurich-based entities benefit from competitive rates and access to Switzerland's extensive double taxation treaty network. Our accounting and tax team can advise on optimization strategies.
Are GmbH shareholders publicly visible?
Yes. Unlike an AG, GmbH quota holders are registered in the commercial register and publicly accessible via Zefix. If shareholder anonymity is a priority, consider an AG structure instead.
Does a Swiss GmbH require an audit?
Small GmbHs with fewer than 10 full-time employees can opt out of a statutory audit if all shareholders agree (known as "opting-out"). Larger GmbHs are subject to limited or ordinary audits depending on whether they exceed certain size thresholds set by Swiss law.
What are the ongoing obligations after buying a shelf GmbH?
Ongoing obligations include preparing annual financial statements, filing federal/cantonal/municipal tax returns, maintaining a registered office in Switzerland, ensuring at least one Swiss-resident managing director, and holding an annual shareholders' meeting. VAT registration and social insurance obligations may also apply depending on your activities.