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Swiss companies register for VAT in the EU to minimize trade barriers through tax-neutral deliveries. However, the registration process varies depending on the EU country.

There are significant VAT differences between Switzerland and the EU, including in the definition of supplies and services. Swiss companies must check tax liabilities and registration for foreign transactions and consider adjustments in general terms and conditions.

Foreign companies that become liable for value-added tax in Switzerland must appoint a domestic fiscal representative who declares sales and complies with value-added tax regulations. The fiscal representative also offers a domicile, but does not assume liability for tax debts.

The Swiss Department of Finance publishes a draft that changes the VAT option for real estate services, including new rules for private use. Changes take effect from 1.1.2014 and affect the taxation and deductibility of various real estate services.

For a proper audit, according to Art. 728 of the Swiss Code of Obligations, the audit office must be independent, which includes, among other things, not being a member of the board of directors or having decisive participations. In the case of the limited audit, despite lower requirements, certain aspects of independence according to Art. 729 of the Swiss Code of Obligations must still be maintained.

An internal control system (ICS) ensures effective, efficient, and compliant processes and minimizes errors in companies. It is a relatively new requirement in Swiss law of obligations, driven by past financial scandals.

Contributions to the 3rd pillar in the Swiss pension system are voluntary and tax-free up to a certain amount. The maximum contribution depends on whether someone is a member of a pension fund or not.

The insolvency notification is required when the debt capital of a corporation is not covered by assets, and in case of lower balance sheet coverage, restructuring measures or notification of a judge are necessary. If the management ignores the notification obligation, this can lead to delay in bankruptcy, for which civil and criminal consequences threaten.

Social security contributions (AHV/IV/EO/ALV) must be deducted from every salary; an exception applies to some low-income industries if the annual salary does not exceed CHF 2,300. Exceptions to this rule are possible if the employees work in certain artistic or domestic professions or explicitly waive the contributions.