What is a domicile address and why do you need one?

A domicile address is an official business address that companies in Switzerland can use for their commercial register entry and as their corporate headquarters. It is essential for startups, international companies, and home offices.

The domicile address plays a central role in company formation in Switzerland. Here's everything you need to know about it:

What is a domicile address?

A domicile address is a professional business address that serves as the official headquarters of your company. It is registered in the commercial register and functions as:

• Legal corporate headquarters: Official address for all administrative matters
• Postal address: Reception and forwarding of important business mail
• Service address: For legal documents and correspondence
• Representative address: Professional image towards customers and partners

Why do you need a domicile address?

Legal requirements:

• Commercial register entry: Every company needs an official address
• Tax authorities: Service address for tax documents
• Social insurances: Correspondence with AHV, IV, ALV
• Legal transactions: Service of lawsuits and legal documents

Practical advantages:

• Professionalism: Serious business address instead of private address
• Privacy: Protection of private address from publication
• Flexibility: Independence from place of residence or home office
• Scalability: No moving costs when changing residence

Who benefits from a domicile address?

Startups and sole proprietors:

• No own business premises available
• Home office as workplace
• Professional image desired
• Privacy protection

International companies:

• Establish Swiss subsidiary
• Build local presence
• Meet legal requirements
• Market penetration in Switzerland

Established companies:

• Branch office in another canton
• Cost-effective expansion
• Show regional presence
• Flexible location strategy

Legal foundations:

Swiss law requires:

• Commercial Register Ordinance (CRO): Every company must have an address
• Serviceability: Documents must be able to be served properly
• Representation: Authorization to receive mail
• Accessibility: Regular mail control and forwarding

Domicile address vs. business address:

Domicile address:

• Only for mail reception and commercial register
• No physical presence required
• More cost-effective
• Ideal for virtual offices

Business address:

• Including office spaces and workplaces
• Physical presence on site
• Higher costs
• Complete infrastructure

Domicile address service at Findea.ch:

Our service includes:

• Prestige address: Professional business address in prime location
• Mail service: Reception, scanning and forwarding
• Commercial register: Support with registration
• Legal security: Complete compliance guarantee
• Flexibility: Monthly cancellation possible

Costs and benefits:

• Typical costs: CHF 50-200 per month
• Savings: No rental costs for office spaces
• ROI: Professional image increases trust
• Scalability: Grows with your company

Conclusion: A domicile address is a cost-effective and professional solution for companies that need an official business address without renting their own office spaces. It fulfills all legal requirements while offering flexibility and professionalism.