Types of Business Activities That Qualify for Swiss Residency

Switzerland continues to be a prime destination for entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals seeking economic opportunities and a high quality of life. For non-EU/EFTA nationals, however, securing a Swiss residence permit is not guaranteed solely by virtue of starting a business or investing capital. Instead, applicants must demonstrate that their proposed activity will deliver a genuine and sustained economic benefit to Switzerland.

This article outlines the types of business activities most likely to receive approval under the entrepreneurial permit route, along with key legal and practical considerations underpinning eligibility.

Swiss Entrepreneur Visa Requirements: Legal Criteria and Immigration Rules

Switzerland does not offer a dedicated "Entrepreneur Visa" or "Business Founder Permit." Instead, non-EU nationals must apply for a work and residence permit under Switzerland's quota-based immigration system. Approval is discretionary and contingent upon demonstrating that the applicant's business activity is "in the interests of the Swiss economy as a whole."

This evaluation includes the venture's potential to create jobs, promote innovation, foster economic diversification, and support the development of local or national economic clusters. Applications are reviewed at both the cantonal and federal levels, with significant weight given to the local labour market, sectoral priorities, and regional development strategies.

Launching a Start-Up for a Swiss Start-Up Visa or Residence Permit

Entrepreneurs proposing to establish innovative start-ups in Switzerland are among the most promising candidates for residence approval. Priority is typically given to start-ups in sectors aligning with Switzerland’s economic and technological ambitions, such as life sciences, biotechnology, information and communication technology, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and financial technology.

Start-up founders must present a well-structured business plan detailing how their company will generate sustainable income, create employment for Swiss or settled residents, and introduce innovation into the domestic market. Ventures that are scalable, commercially viable, and capable of contributing to regional economic clusters—such as the tech hub surrounding EPFL in Lausanne or the life sciences ecosystem in Basel—are particularly well-positioned for success.

Buying a Swiss Company: Pathway to a Swiss Business Residence Permit

Foreign nationals may also qualify for Swiss residency by acquiring an existing Swiss business. This route suits experienced businesspeople wishing to continue operations in an established commercial context. The acquisition must support ongoing economic activity and demonstrate a clear commitment to retaining or expanding the existing workforce.

Authorities require evidence that the applicant will take an active role in managing the company and that the business will remain operationally viable under new ownership. The continuation of jobs and contributions to local suppliers or service providers are viewed favorably.

Expanding a Foreign Company to Switzerland: Swiss Entrepreneur Permit Insights

Applicants who are directors or key personnel of overseas businesses may apply for residence to establish a Swiss branch, subsidiary, or operational base. The Swiss entity must offer a meaningful local presence and participate actively in the Swiss economy.

Applications should explain how the expansion will result in job creation, knowledge or technology transfer, or the development of local partnerships. This route is suitable for businesses operating internationally and seeking to enter the Swiss market for commercial, logistical, or strategic reasons.

Investing in a Swiss Business as a Route to a Swiss Investor Visa

Wealthy individuals wishing to relocate to Switzerland and invest in a business must do more than contribute capital. Passive investment—such as acquiring shares or real estate—does not qualify for residence. Instead, the investor must demonstrate a hands-on managerial or strategic role in the business.

A qualifying investment should support job creation, business growth, or sectoral innovation. The investor must also satisfy requirements for active professional engagement, including relevant experience, operational involvement, and residence in Switzerland. This route is viable for those aiming to become managing directors or board members of companies in which they hold a substantial stake.

Swiss Residence Permit for Independent Professionals and Consultants

Independent professionals—such as consultants, engineers, legal or financial advisors, and creatives—may apply for Swiss residence, provided they establish a business meeting the same economic criteria as other entrepreneurial ventures. These applications are typically more challenging due to the smaller scale and lower economic footprint of solo practices.

To be eligible, applicants must demonstrate that their activity will generate sustainable income, is in demand within the Swiss market, and contributes to the local or national economy tangibly. This may include subcontracting with Swiss businesses, participating in innovation ecosystems, or offering niche expertise not readily available in the local workforce.

Approval is more likely when applicants can show Swiss clients, a viable business model, and integration into the economic priorities of the chosen canton. For instance, an IT consultant offering cybersecurity services to clients in Geneva’s finance sector, or a designer collaborating with Lausanne-based technology firms, will have stronger prospects than a freelancer working remotely for overseas clients.

Swiss Investment Company Visa Route: A Strategy for High-Net-Worth Individuals

High-net-worth individuals may seek residency through forming a Swiss-based investment company. This approach differs from passive investment, as the company must function as an active commercial enterprise, with the applicant playing a central managerial role.

Such a company might invest in early-stage Swiss businesses, support research commercialisation, or develop a portfolio of operational ventures. The investment vehicle must be registered in Switzerland, comply with all regulatory requirements, and demonstrate economic impact through job creation, innovation, or strategic growth.

Authorities will assess whether the applicant is genuinely managing the investment activities, whether the company contributes to the Swiss economy beyond personal profit, and whether the enterprise reflects a long-term commitment to integration and residence.

What Does 'In the Interests of the Swiss Economy' Mean in Practice?

This legal standard is central to the Swiss entrepreneurial permit regime. Authorities apply a holistic analysis of each proposed business, focusing on:

• Creation of new employment opportunities for Swiss or settled workers.

• Alignment with regional or sectoral development goals.

• Capacity to introduce innovation, new technologies, or specialized knowledge to the domestic market.

• Market demand and competitive positioning within Switzerland.

• Investment structure and the applicant’s commitment to financial and operational sustainability.

Authorities expect detailed business plans supported by financial projections, market analysis, and documentation of strategic partnerships or client relationships. Cantonal economic development offices may be consulted to offer expert opinions on the venture’s likely contribution.

Swiss Entrepreneur Permit Funding Requirements: How Much Investment is Needed?

Switzerland does not impose a statutory minimum capital requirement for entrepreneurial applicants. However, the business must be adequately funded to operate sustainably, fulfill its objectives, and deliver measurable economic value.

The required investment amount depends on the business's nature and scale. A small consultancy may succeed with CHF 100,000 or less, whereas a biotech start-up may need several million francs in funding. The investment must be proportional to the commercial goals and sufficient to support operations, job creation targets, and economic impact.

Why Active Business Management is Essential for a Swiss Entrepreneur Visa

Entrepreneurial residence is available only to applicants who play an ongoing, central role in the business. This includes day-to-day management, strategic leadership, or oversight that cannot be delegated. Authorities will assess whether the applicant’s presence in Switzerland is necessary for the business’s operation.

Applicants must demonstrate relevant qualifications, a professional track record, and the skills necessary to manage the business. Applications proposing limited or symbolic involvement—such as remote supervision or advisory board participation—will be refused.

Is a Swiss Entrepreneur or Business Visa Right for You?

Switzerland offers an attractive pathway to residence for entrepreneurs and business owners who can demonstrate a genuine, active, and economically beneficial business presence. Whether launching a new venture, acquiring an existing company, or offering independent professional services, the proposed business must align with Switzerland’s economic objectives and deliver long-term value to the labor market.

At Richmond Chambers Switzerland, we provide strategic, legal, and practical guidance at every stage of the process—from business plan development and corporate structuring to the preparation and submission of residence permit applications. Our experienced team will ensure that your Swiss Entrepreneur or Business Visa application aligns with cantonal and federal expectations, giving you the best possible chance of success.

To learn more or to arrange a consultation, contact our Swiss business immigration lawyers on +41 21 588 07 70, email info@richmondchambers.ch or complete an enquiry form.