Hints on getting a foothold in Switzerland as an expat investor

Given all the reasons why Switzerland is the holy grail for expats determined to grow their careers whilst earning a small fortune, it’s no surprise that the small country is also a magnet for investors.

Known worldwide as a hub for safety, security, eye-wateringly high salaries, cleanliness. environmental stewardship and natural beauty, Switzerland’s one drawback is that expats already need a small fortune to be able to live there. Adding on a first class, totally reliable healthcare system and top quality education, the mountainous little country sounds like expats’ heaven on earth whether they’re job-hunting or investing.

Regularly topping surveys based on quality of life and liveability, the country’s also feted for its entrepreneurship and citizenship opportunities. It’s a base for higher education, with international as well as local students taking advantage of the world’s second best universities’ connections with international research and academic hubs. In addition, it’s a favourite for foreign direct investment due to its economic and political stability, its neutrality and its transparent legal system.

Given that nowhere on the planet is perfect, the one drawback of company formation in Switzerland for expats is that its immigration policies are rigorous, to put it mildly. Taking advantage of its business environment involves jumping through endless hoops, including not being able to use ownership of a company, real estate or other investments as a bridge to citizenship or even a residency permit. Taking professional advice as to options is mandatory, as is making a business plan if you’ve the intention to invest, and patience on a grand scale is recommended.