Business Licenses and Reporting Requirements
This page is available in:
In Switzerland, there is generally freedom of economic activity. In other words, in principle, anyone is free to engage in private-sector business activities. However, certain types of businesses and projects require a license or must be registered. Determine early on which requirements apply to your project.
Key Points at a Glance
- Not all businesses are unrestricted—some require a license or must be registered.
- You can find an overview of the most important business and operating permits on the cantonal overview page.
- The requirements depend on your industry and the nature of the project.
- In many cases, the local municipality is the first point of contact.
- You should also contact your professional or industry association for assistance.
Typical Areas Requiring Permits or Registration
Licensing or reporting requirements exist in various industries and sectors, particularly in the following:
- Commerce & Industry
- Goods & Trade
- Finance & Gambling
- Health
- Education & Childcare
- Animals
- Agriculture
- Transport
- Events
For more information, visit the cantonal website Overview of Business and Operating Licenses.
Assistance in finding the relevant authorities
The Business Support Unit at the Office of Economic Affairs can assist you in finding the relevant authorities and contact points for your project:
Business Support Unit
Amt für Wirtschaft
How to proceed
Use the accordion controls to toggle the visibility of each panel (below the controls).
Determine the sector or industry in which your project operates. Is a permit or registration required?
The overview of business and operating permits will help you with this.
Determine early on which specific requirements apply to your project.
To do this, contact your local municipality and your professional or industry association.
Determine which authorities are responsible for your project. The cantonal overview page can help you with this.
Submit your permit application or notification to the competent authority.
Further information
Note: The information on this page is provided for guidance only and is not exhaustive. Specific questions should be clarified with experts or the relevant authorities as early as possible.
Contact
Amt für Wirtschaft – Standortförderung
Montag bis Freitag
8.00 bis 12.00 Uhr und
13.30 bis 17.00 Uhr
