Swiss Marketplace Overview
Switzerland ranks among the top countries in the world to live in due to its overall quality of living, with Zurich and Geneva frequently nominated as among the best cities in which to reside.
Historically, Switzerland has always maintained a neutral political stance internationally, a policy that has fostered a politically and economically stable environment. The combination of the country’s rich culture and heritage and its liberal attitude has given rise to one of the richest, most independent and organized societies. Switzerland boasts a multi-cultural and multi-lingual society, with four official languages and a growing trend to teach English at elementary school level. An ideal combination of political and economic stability, a clean and safe environment, excellent communications and transport links, efficient public services and relatively low tax rates, makes it the ultimate choice for business and residence.
Switzerland is home to a large number of international organizations, such as the International Red Cross, WTO, Universal Postal Union, The World Intellectual Property Organization, UNCHR, ILO and WHO.
The Swiss taxation system is consistent with the country's reputation as a centre of international trade and finance. Many tax privileges have been introduced in order to encourage foreign investment in Switzerland, while there are very few restrictions on Swiss investment abroad. Investors and entrepreneurs as well as persons of independent means will normally find it easy to obtain a residence permit.
Key advantages of Residence in Switzerland
- Political, social and economic stability
- Multi-lingual, highly qualified and motivated workforce
- First-class infrastructure, excellent banking facilities
- Very attractive lifestyle and healthy environment
- Efficient and reliable public services
- Possible fiscal incentives for substantial investments
- Favourable taxation system with moderate tax rates
Business & Investment Handbook
Renato L. Bloch is co-author of the “Switzerland Business & Investment Handbook”. The foreword is by Johann Schneider-Ammann, Federal Councillor and Minister of Economic Affairs. The Switzerland Business and Investment Handbook covers all key aspects of doing business, investing and living in Switzerland. It is a unique reference manual featuring over 30 separate chapters, each of them concise and to the point, providing the information that really matters. Besides an introduction to Switzerland's historical, political, social and economic framework, the book covers the Swiss legal system, company and contract law, antitrust and competition law, intellectual property law, taxation of personal income and investments, corporate taxation, VAT, international tax aspects, real estate, residence, the social security and pension system, Swiss annuities and life insurance, corporate and private banking, financial market regulation and other important subjects. Overview tables, useful check lists, portraits of the Swiss cantons, a bibliography, a comprehensive facts and figures section as well as a clearly organized address section make the handbook user-friendly and practice-oriented. The book is aimed at: — Company executives who wish to have a clear overview of the legal, tax and economic framework in Switzerland — Investors and entrepreneurs interested in investing and doing business in Switzerland — International tax and legal advisors — Business consultants and fiduciaries — English-speakers living, working and doing business in Switzerland.