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Central Business Name Index: Who Qualifies and What You Get

Learn how to officially register your business entity and understand the requirements for self-employed professionals in Switzerland.

The Central Business Name Index provides an official registration for business entities to ensure they are formally recognized within the national trade system.

Who it's for

This index is designed for those operating in a professional capacity, including company owners and self-employed individuals, such as electricians. It serves as a way for these individuals to formalize their professional presence in the Swiss business landscape.

What you get

When you use this service, you receive official registration of your business entity. This registration ensures that your business is documented in the Handelsregister, providing a formal record of your entity's existence and its legal standing. This process is a fundamental step for any professional looking to establish their business identity officially.

What it costs you

The cost of using this registration service is not a single flat rate. Instead, the registration fees vary depending on the specific legal structure you have chosen for your business. For example, the costs will differ if you are registering as a sole proprietorship compared to if you are registering a GmbH. You should check the current fee schedule based on your specific business setup.

The catch to know

The most important thing to keep in mind is that registration is not always a choice. You are legally required to register your business if your annual turnover exceeds a certain threshold. Failing to track your turnover can lead to missing the point at which registration becomes mandatory.

How to apply

  1. Identify your specific business structure, such as a sole proprietorship or a GmbH.
  2. Calculate your current turnover to see if you have met the mandatory registration threshold.
  3. Prepare the necessary documentation required for your specific business type.
  4. Access the official portal to complete your registration: https://www.zefix.ch