This guide is to promote the business opportunities for foreign companies, recruitment agencies, and contractors to work in the Swiss market.

About Switzerland 

Switzerland boasts very high average salaries and ranks among the wealthiest nations in the world based on per capita GDP. It is also known for being one of the safest countries globally. The work culture in Switzerland is characterised by a strong sense of responsibility, punctuality, and hard work. The country offers a high standard of living along with an active lifestyle, making it a pleasure to reside in a land of stunning landscapes and over 1,500 lakes. Additionally, the high standards of education and healthcare contribute to its popularity among professionals.

Key Reasons to Expand Your Business in Switzerland

For Corporates 

Switzerland attracts many business owners for several reasons. Key benefits include its political stability, quick and straightforward company formation process, financial confidentiality, low tax rates, minimal corruption, excellent reputation, advanced economy and infrastructure with business-friendly regulations, provided you have a capable partner familiar with the requirements.

These factors make Switzerland an appealing destination for wealthy foreign investors and ambitious entrepreneurs seeking a financial and corporate hub.

For Recruitment Agencies 

In Switzerland, the staffing industry is highly competitive, featuring numerous regional and national players. However, there are opportunities for smaller players and new entrants to the market with niche offerings and can adapt to market requirements. A recruiter who is agile can easily stand out from the crowd.

For Contractors 

According to the Swiss Skills Shortage Index, published by the Adecco Group Switzerland and the Swiss Job Market Monitor project at the University of Zurich, there was an 18% decrease in the skills shortage index in 2024. This follows a significant increase in 2023.

The reduction is attributed to the current economic downturn, which has resulted in fewer job advertisements and a slight rise in the unemployment rate.

However, it is important to note that, despite this decrease, the demand for skilled workers remains higher than pre-pandemic levels.

Healthcare professionals continue to be in high demand, along with workers in construction-related jobs. Although the IT sector has seen some easing of the shortage, there is still a continuing need for skilled IT workers.

For the most up-to-date information regarding the Swiss Skills Shortage Index, you can visit the University of Zurich website, specifically through the Stellenmarkt-Monitor Schweiz.

In summary, while the skills shortage has lessened somewhat in 2024, it remains a significant issue in Switzerland, particularly in certain sectors.

It is accurate to say that Switzerland has very high salaries, and is within the highest rankings of OECD countries.

Switzerland offers an excellent work-life balance, typically featuring a work week of 40 to 45 hours. Full-time employees are entitled to four weeks of paid vacation each year, with a requirement to take at least two consecutive weeks. Additionally, there are generous provisions for sick leave and parental leave.

Social security provides a basic old-age pension for retirement. Additionally, employers are required to offer a contributory occupational pension scheme. Employees may also make voluntary contributions to enhance their retirement income.

How can Access Financial help?

Hiring temporary or permanent workers in Switzerland involves strict compliance requirements. It is essential to note that a foreign company cannot employ contractors through a management company based abroad which does not hold the necessary authorisations and licences. Additionally, a foreign recruitment agency cannot supply staff to a Swiss client or bill the Swiss client directly without obtaining the required approvals.

Access Financial has built a strong reputation as a trustworthy and reliable partner for businesses seeking to expand into Switzerland, as well as for job seekers looking to work there. Based in Nyon, in the canton of Vaud, we are registered with the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) and the cantonal Employment Service, allowing us to engage in labour leasing and payroll management activities throughout Switzerland.

As a leading global labour leasing company headquartered in Nyon, Vaud, we manage all contracting formalities and legal requirements for corporations, recruitment agencies, and contractors. Our services benefit employers by ensuring compliance with local laws, support recruitment agencies in maintaining satisfied clients, and assist contractors in maximising their earnings while providing a legally compliant payroll solution.

Our Services

For Corporates and Recruitment Agencies that want to build their brand in the Swiss market: 

– Incorporating your business in Switzerland  

– Assistance in selecting the most suitable form of organisation and working through the process  

– Application for necessary licences  

– Outsourcing accounting and payroll services  

– Ensuring compliance, particularly for recruitment businesses in Switzerland  

– Legal and tax consulting services 

For Contractors: 

– Efficient onboarding and contract management  

– Automated systems for timesheets, invoicing, payroll, and payments  

– Assistance with health insurance coverage  

– Improved retention rates through accredited Swiss pension schemes  

– Comprehensive payslips detailing tax and social security deductions

For more information, please call us at +41 22 365 4620 or email us at info@accessfinancial.com. You can also download our country guide on Switzerland using the link below. This guide will provide you with detailed information about the tax and labour aspects of the country.

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Swiss Country Guide: Download

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FAQs

Below we have prepared a list of frequently asked questions by our clients for your review. 

Question: I’m a German company that wants to expand into Switzerland. Can you help me set up a Swiss subsidiary? 

Answer: Yes, we can help you with all aspects of setting up a Swiss subsidiary, including registering your business, fast onboarding, and setting up your payroll and HR systems. We can also advise you on Swiss tax and social security laws. 

Question: I am a contractor who is considering working in Switzerland. What are the tax implications? 

Answer: Your tax liabilities in Switzerland will depend on your specific circumstances. However, we can provide general information on Swiss tax laws and refer you to a qualified tax advisor for a hassle-free experience. The country has treaties with multiple countries that help reduce withholding taxes on interest, royalties and dividends.

Question: I’m a business owner from outside of the EU. Can you assist in hiring and managing a workforce in Switzerland? 

Answer: Definitely. There are certain mandatory and optional benefits that a Swiss worker must receive—choosing Access Financial as your EOR relieves you of the time and effort required to employ and manage the team, while ensuring compliance with local employment laws. Our end-to-end payroll management and administration services empower you to operate with local best practices while adhering to required obligations optimally. 

Question: Do you help independent foreign contractors who have work opportunities in Switzerland with immigration and compliance requirements? 

Answer: Yes, we do. Access Financial has over 22 years of experience helping contractors worldwide relocate to new destinations. We support you in immigration while assisting with all taxation, legal and compliance requirements.