How much does an audit cost in Switzerland?

An audit in Switzerland typically costs between CHF 3,000 and CHF 15,000 annually for small and medium-sized enterprises, depending on company size, complexity, and type of audit.

The costs of an audit vary considerably depending on various factors. Here is a detailed overview of audit costs in Switzerland:

Costs by audit type:

Limited audit:

• Small LLC/AG: CHF 3,000-6,000 annually
• Medium enterprises: CHF 5,000-10,000 annually
• Duration: 3-8 audit days
• Requirement: Meeting certain thresholds

Ordinary audit:

• Medium enterprises: CHF 8,000-20,000 annually
• Larger SMEs: CHF 15,000-50,000 annually
• Groups: CHF 50,000+ annually
• Duration: 10-30+ audit days

Opt-out (waiver of audit):

• No direct audit costs
• Requirements: Fewer than 10 full-time positions, consent of all shareholders
• Alternative review: Possible by fiduciary

Cost factors in detail:

Company size:

• Balance sheet total: Higher sum = greater audit effort
• Revenue: More transactions = more audit procedures
• Number of employees: Larger teams = more complex processes
• Locations: Multiple sites increase effort

Company complexity:

• Industry: Regulated industries (banks, insurance) more expensive
• Business model: Simple vs. complex structures
• IT systems: Number and integration of systems
• International activity: Additional complexity

Quality of accounting:

• Orderliness: Clean accounting reduces effort
• Internal controls: Good controls reduce audit risk
• Documentation: Complete supporting documents save time
• Preparation: Well-prepared documents reduce costs

Price structure by company size:

Company SizeLimited AuditOrdinary AuditAudit DaysMicro (up to CHF 500k revenue)CHF 3,000-5,000CHF 8,000-12,0003-5 daysSmall (up to CHF 2M revenue)CHF 4,000-7,000CHF 10,000-18,0005-8 daysMedium (up to CHF 10M revenue)CHF 6,000-12,000CHF 15,000-30,0008-15 daysLarge (from CHF 10M revenue)CHF 10,000-20,000CHF 25,000-100,000+15-50+ days

Additional costs:

One-time costs:

• First audit: Surcharges for training (20-30%)
• System change: Adaptation to new software
• Structural changes: New subsidiaries

Recurring additional services:

• Interim audits: CHF 1,000-3,000 depending on scope
• Management letter: Recommendations and improvement suggestions
• Consulting: CHF 150-300 per hour
• Special audits: Depending on effort

Regional price differences:

• Zurich/Geneva: 10-20% higher prices
• Basel/Bern: Average market prices
• Regional centers: 5-15% below average
• Rural areas: 10-25% cheaper

Possible savings through:

Optimal preparation:

• Complete documents: All documents sorted and ready
• Clean accounting: Regular monthly closings
• Internal controls: Established audit processes
• Digitization: Electronic documents and workflows

Long-term partnerships:

• Multi-year contracts: Often more favorable conditions
• Efficiency gains: Auditors know the company
• Reduced training time: Less effort in subsequent years

Audit with Findea.ch:

Our audit services are distinguished by efficiency and fairness:

Transparent pricing:

• Fixed annual packages: No unexpected costs
• Detailed quotes: Clear breakdown of all services
• No hidden fees: Everything included

Efficient execution:

• Digital tools: Modern audit software
• Experienced auditors: Certified professionals
• Industry knowledge: SME specialization

When is an audit worthwhile?

• Legal obligation: When exceeding thresholds
• Lender requirements: Banks often require audits
• Building trust: With investors and partners
• Internal control: Detection of weaknesses and risks

Cost optimization tips:

• Early planning: Audit planning already in autumn
• Good preparation: Systematically collect documents
• Digital solutions: Introduce electronic accounting
• Long-term partnership: Build trust, reduce costs

Conclusion: Audit costs vary significantly, but with good preparation and the right partner, both costs and effort can be considerably reduced.