Starting a Business in Switzerland from Italy: Advantages, Opportunities, and Tailored Consulting
Professione Business – based in Giubiasco (Ticino). We support Italian SMEs and entrepreneurs in opening, relocating, and developing their businesses in Switzerland.
We guide Italian companies that want to expand into Switzerland
Professione Business was born from a dual Swiss and Italian soul, headquartered in Giubiasco, Ticino, Switzerland . We act as an operational bridge between the two countries for: relocating registered offices, starting new companies, developing online and offline businesses, opening stores, offices, and resellers in Switzerland, with a customized internationalization plan.
Why do Italian companies dream of Switzerland?
Economic and political stability
For decades, Switzerland has been considered one of the most stable and reliable countries in the world, a factor that represents a huge advantage for those looking to do business. Inflation remains consistently low, public institutions enjoy a high level of trust, and the banking system is synonymous with solidity and security internationally. This stability is no coincidence: it stems from a political model based on direct democracy, which ensures continuity in decision-making and minimizes sudden changes in the rules of the game. For an entrepreneur, this means operating in an environment where economic policies are predictable, where the regulatory framework does not change overnight, and where investments are truly protected. In a global context often marked by uncertainty and turbulence, Switzerland stands out as an island of safety: a country where long-term planning is possible with peace of mind and where mutual trust between institutions and businesses becomes a true driver of growth.
Competitive taxation
One of the main reasons driving Italian entrepreneurs to look to Switzerland is the enormous difference in taxation. In Italy, the overall burden of taxes and contributions for those who pay regularly can easily exceed 50% of company profits, creating an environment that often hinders growth and makes reinvestment difficult. Added to this is a complex tax bureaucracy, characterized by constant deadlines, uncertain interpretations, and a climate perceived as unfavorable for business. Switzerland, by contrast, offers a much more competitive and predictable system. The overall tax burden stands at around 26–27% of GDP, while effective corporate taxation averages between 12% and 18%, with variations from canton to canton. In some jurisdictions, thanks to favorable regimes and incentives, tax rates can be even lower. Beyond the numbers, what makes the difference is the transparency and stability of the Swiss tax system: the rules are clear, do not change constantly, and allow entrepreneurs to plan with certainty for the medium to long term. In practice, lower taxes and greater clarity mean more resources to reinvest in the business, with a direct impact on competitiveness and corporate growth.
Strategic position
Switzerland occupies a unique position at the heart of Europe: it borders directly with Italy, Germany, France, and Austria, and is perfectly connected to major European cities thanks to a modern and efficient infrastructure network—motorways, high-speed railways, and international airports. This privileged location makes Switzerland a natural hub for exports and imports, allowing companies to quickly and cost-effectively manage the distribution of goods and services to European and global markets. Furthermore, Switzerland enjoys numerous international trade agreements that facilitate trade and access to markets outside Europe, guaranteeing advantageous conditions compared to many other countries. For an Italian company, opening in Switzerland means not only access to a market with high purchasing power, but also a strategic platform for expansion throughout Europe and beyond, strengthening its global competitiveness.
Purchasing power and brand
Switzerland is one of the countries with the highest per capita income in the world, a fact directly reflected in consumer habits. Swiss citizens have high purchasing power and are accustomed to choosing products and services not only based on price, but above all on quality, reliability, and brand prestige. For Italian companies, renowned internationally for their creativity, craftsmanship, and design, this represents an extraordinary opportunity: the Swiss market is willing to recognize the added value of well-made products and pay a fair price. Furthermore, opening a business or relocating your headquarters to Switzerland allows you to gain a prestigious positioning. Being "Swiss-based" is an implicit mark of professionalism, stability, and reliability that increases the trust not only of local customers, but also of international partners and investors. In other words, it's not just about selling more, but doing so with a higher positioning, which strengthens the brand and paves the way for new, high-level collaborations.
Innovation and streamlined bureaucracy
Switzerland is internationally recognized as one of the most innovative countries in the world: it consistently invests in research and development (R&D), supports startups with dedicated funds and incentives, and offers entrepreneurs a rich ecosystem of top-notch universities, technology hubs, and business incubators. This culture of innovation extends not only to technology, but also to the way the state and institutions interact with businesses. Bureaucracy is clear, digital, and simplified: processes are streamlined, transparent, and reduced to the bare minimum. A concrete example is incorporating a company: while in Italy it can take weeks or even months, in Switzerland registering a new company can be completed in just a few working days. This saves valuable time and allows businesses to launch without delays. For an entrepreneur, the combination of an innovative environment and fast-paced bureaucracy offers a dual advantage: on the one hand, operating in an environment that values ideas and rewards investors, and on the other, being able to rely on institutions that facilitate—rather than hinder—business development.
Italy vs. Switzerland: Head-to-Head Comparison
| I wait | Italy | Swiss |
|---|---|---|
| Overall tax burden | Over 50% for those who pay regularly | ~ 26–27% of GDP |
| Effective business tax rate | 27–30% nominal; higher actual weight with additional charges | 12–18% on average (per Canton) |
| Company opening times | Weeks or months | A few days |
| Stability | Variable | Very high |
| Bureaucracy | Complex and slow | Simplified and digital |
| Purchasing power | Medium | Very high |
Indicative values: vary by sector, size and canton.
Case Study: An Italian Beauty Company That Chose Locarno
A beauty and aesthetics company with a historic store in Italy. It chose Locarno (a tourist destination and home, among many other local activities, to the renowned Film Festival) to launch its Swiss growth: clear regulations , rapid turnaround times , and competitive taxation . Strategy: maintain the historic store in Italy and open more stores in Ticino and, eventually, in other cantons of central Switzerland.
- Opening a company in Locarno in a short time
- Location selection for tourists and residents
- Local + digital communication plan
- Expansion roadmap with new stores
Result: a solid presence in Italy and a growth plan in Switzerland.
Why choose Professione Business
Relying on Professione Business means having a partner with direct and concrete knowledge of both the Italian and Swiss markets. We don't just handle paperwork, draft business plans, or develop marketing strategies: our true strength is our ability to combine technical consulting with strategic vision, developed over fifteen years of experience as entrepreneurs and consultants. We have a deep understanding of the cultural, fiscal, and operational differences between the two countries, and we know how to transform them from obstacles into opportunities. This allows us to guide companies not only through the start-up phase, but also through commercial development, expansion with new stores, and the construction of a competitive and lasting positioning. Choosing Professione Business means relying on a team that offers more than standard solutions, but customized approaches, tailored to the needs of each business, with the goal of ensuring concrete and sustainable results over time.
FAQ
How much does it cost to start a business in Switzerland?
Sagl: minimum capital of CHF 20,000 (fully paid), which can be used immediately as a company fund.
SA: minimum capital of CHF 100,000. At the time of incorporation, at least 20% of the subscribed capital must be paid in, but no less than CHF 50,000. For a SA with a minimum capital of CHF 50,000, the minimum capital must be paid in immediately.
How long does it take to move your registered office from Italy?
With proper planning, the main phases can be completed in just a few months . This timeframe varies greatly and varies from case to case.
What is the average tax rate for a Swiss company?
Effective combined rate on average between 12% and 18% , variable by canton.
Do you need a Swiss partner?
Not mandatory; a local partner can facilitate the initial stages.
👉 In practice: a Swiss partner is not required, but at least one manager/director resident in Switzerland is required to establish and manage the company.
This requirement serves to ensure that the company always has a reachable representative in Switzerland.
Ready to take the leap?
Opening a business in Switzerland means stability, prestige, and new prospects. We'll guide you from idea to expansion.
At Professione Business, we support companies and professionals who want to develop their business, open a new business, or expand their market.
If you're considering this option, contact us for a personalized consultation.
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Professione Business isn't just a consulting agency; it's the partner you've always been looking for. If you believe in your company's potential and want to work with a results-oriented team, contact us for a free initial consultation .
Find out how we can help your business grow, because our clients' success is our primary goal.
Start your journey to success with Professione Business today.
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Business Profession It's not just a consulting agency; I prefer to describe it as a "Business Partner." It's a project born from the desire to help entrepreneurs, companies, and professionals improve their businesses by identifying effective, tailored strategies for each individual. If you feel it's time to change direction in your professional life or turn your business around, Write me a DM or email me at info@professionebusiness.com.
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