Corporate taxation

Which tax optimisation strategy suits your company?

Various strategies can help optimise corporate taxes in Switzerland. Thorough tax planning, appropriate structuring of the company and regular adjustments for legal changes can minimise tax risks and identify opportunities for savings. Choosing the best type of company, such as a public limited or limited liability company, enables tax rates and levies to be organised efficiently. Tax advantages can also be achieved through international tax structuring and using double taxation agreements, particularly for globally active companies. Investment in research and development or in environmentally friendly technologies can offer additional tax benefits. An accurate tax return and compliance with all tax regulations help to optimise tax burdens and avoid penalties – the tax experts at BDO will be happy to advise you.

BDO supports your company on all tax matters long-term

Individual tax optimisation strategies

Individual tax optimisation strategies

We offer customised tax solutions that are specifically tailored to your company's needs and provide legally compliant ways to minimise your tax burden.

Expertise in international tax law

Expertise in
international tax law

We offer in-depth advice for companies with cross-border activities to ensure that double tax treaties are optimally utilised and international tax compliance is guaranteed.

Proactive tax planning and safe compliance

Proactive tax planning and safe compliance

Early identification of tax risks and opportunities through continuous monitoring of the legal framework to ensure compliance and avoid tax penalties.

Corporate Taxation in Switzerland - Overview of all cantonal rates

Select the canton of your interest to discover the current tax rates. The info box will reveal direct contact details for the relevant tax administration as well as useful information about the nearest BDO locations.

BS BL OW ZG JU BE NE FR VD VS TI GR UR SZ AG ZH TG LU GL SG SO SH NW AI AR GE

Basis: Steuerjahr 2024 (Hauptort)

Comprehensive tax advice for SMEs in Switzerland

Companies in Switzerland face tough competition in cities such as Zurich, Lucerne, Bern, Solothurn and Aarau. Taxes are a cost factor that should not be underestimated and play a decisive role in your company's success.

BDO offers a holistic approach: we help companies set up the right structures, and support transactions, reorganisations and successions from a tax perspective. Our expertise includes optimising transfer prices and compliance with national and international tax law.

Competent advice on corporate taxes

Benefit from our consultants' experience of corporate taxes and recent reforms. We provide a comprehensive overview of tax requirements in Swiss cantons and abroad, including Germany, France, Italy and within the EU.

Whether you want to calculate corporate taxes or find out about specific developments in the cantons – we are your competent partner. BDO represents you before domestic and foreign tax authorities as well as in appeal proceedings, and offers a country-by-country approach to optimise your tax strategy.

Advice tailored to your needs

SMEs

  • Simple and efficient tax returns, choice of suitable legal form, structuring
  • Tax optimisation with limited resources
  • VAT compliance and correct invoicing

International companies

  • Complex tax optimisation and structuring
  • International tax conformity and compliance
  • Efficient handling of VAT and other indirect taxes

Natural persons

  • Tax optimisation for income and assets
  • Efficient tax returns and processing
  • Advice on complex tax situations

HNWI

  • Wealth and estate planning
  • International tax compliance and residence optimisation
  • Tax optimisation for complex investments and holdings
BDO locations

Where can you find us?

As a leading company in the corporate tax sector, we are represented by 42 branches in Switzerland. With many years of expertise and a strong network, we support companies in efficiently meeting their tax obligations and realising tax potential.
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Frequently asked questions on corporate taxes

How can I optimise my tax burden as a company?

Tax deductions and choosing the right corporate structure can help optimise taxes. In addition, targeted tax advice and regular tax planning offer potential for reducing the tax burden. Individual analysis by experts is crucial here.

Which taxes do companies in Switzerland have to consider?

In Switzerland, companies must pay income and capital taxes. Other important taxes to consider are value-added tax (VAT), withholding tax, stamp duty and withholding tax for employees. Depending on the canton, specific taxes such as property gains tax or transfer tax may also apply. It is important to know and comply with local tax regulations. With 36 locations in Switzerland, BDO knows the local conditions.

How does taxation of international companies work?

Companies which operate internationally must familiarise themselves with double taxation agreements and the respective tax laws of the countries in which they are active. Careful planning and advice are required in order to avoid tax traps and utilise tax advantages. International tax structuring is an important part of the tax strategy.
   
       
           
               
                   

How does the choice of company form affect the tax burden?

               
               
                   

The type of company (AG, GmbH, sole proprietorship, etc.) has a major influence on the tax burden, as different tax rates and levies apply. Corporations such as AGs or GmbHs, for example, are subject to corporate income tax, while sole proprietorships have to pay income tax. Choosing the right legal form can therefore bring significant tax advantages or disadvantages.

               
           
       
   

“We have been working with BDO Switzerland for three years and are thoroughly impressed. The team’s expertise and broad knowledge ensure that we receive the best possible advice on all tax matters. We particularly appreciate the client proximity and the commitment with which BDO Switzerland responds to our individual needs. Working together is great fun – and gives us a good feeling of being well looked after at all times." 

Our experts

Lukas Kretz

Lukas Kretz

Swiss Certified Tax Expert, Aarau - Partner
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Luis Annoni

Luis Annoni

Head of Tax and Legal, Lausanne & Delémont - Partner
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Andreas Frey

Andreas Frey

Head of Tax & Legal Solothurn, Tax, Olten & Solothurn
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Christian Amrein BDO

Christian Amrein

Head of Tax, Lucerne
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Michael Eichholzer

Michael Eichholzer

Tax Expert, Zurich
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Isabelle Zanettin

Isabelle Zanettin

Head of Tax & Legal, St. Gallen
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