1. About Unternehmen Law in Bern, Schweiz
In Bern, as in the rest of Switzerland, company law is largely governed by the Swiss Code of Obligations (Obligationenrecht, OR). This framework covers common business structures such as GmbH (limited liability company) and AG (joint stock company), including formation, governance, and dissolution. The cantonal authorities administer the commercial register for Bern and oversee compliance with registration requirements.
Bernese business entities must align with federal rules on capital, fiduciary duties, and contract law, while also adhering to cantonal regulations for registration, reporting, and licensing where applicable. The core principles emphasize fiduciary duties, transparency, and accurate record keeping. For startup founders and established firms, understanding both federal and cantonal steps is essential to avoid gaps in liability and governance.
Practical guidance for Bern residents includes knowing where to register, how to draft articles of association, and when to seek counsel for complex transactions. The process relies on formal filings, board governance, and ongoing compliance with annual reporting requirements. Cantonal nuances matter, especially in industries subject to local permits or licensing.
Source: Swiss corporate law is primarily shaped by the Swiss Code of Obligations (OR) and related cantonal administration. See admin.ch for official guidance.
2. Why You May Need a Lawyer
Starting or running a Bern-based company often requires tailored legal advice to navigate complex rules. A lawyer can help you choose the right structure and avoid pitfalls that could affect liability or taxes.
Scenario 1: You plan to convert a sole proprietorship in Bern to a GmbH and need compliant articles of association, share structure, and capital requirements. An attorney ensures the documents meet OR standards and that registration is submitted correctly.
Scenario 2: You are acquiring a Bern-based business and must perform due diligence, draft a share purchase agreement, and negotiate warranties and closing conditions. A business lawyer coordinates the process across contract, tax, and employment implications.
Scenario 3: Your company faces an employee collective dispute or a potential dismissal program in Bern. Legal counsel can craft lawful termination packages, navigate Swiss employment law, and minimize risk of claims.
Scenario 4: You operate in a regulated sector (for example, finance, healthcare, or data-intensive services) and require guidance on licensing, regulatory compliance, and AML obligations. A lawyer helps structure compliance programs and document retention.
Scenario 5: You need a cross-border agreement with a Bern partner or supplier and must align Swiss, EU, and international contract terms. An attorney can harmonize governing law, arbitration clauses, and cross-border tax considerations.
3. Local Laws Overview
The following laws and regulations are central to Unternehmen in Bern and across Switzerland. They guide corporate formation, governance, employment, and data handling.
- Obligationenrecht (OR) - Swiss Code of Obligations: Governs company forms (GmbH, AG), formation, share capital, directors, and fiduciary duties. It is the foundational source for commercial contracts and corporate governance.
- Arbeitsgesetz (ArG) - Swiss Labour Act: Regulates working hours, minimum rest, break requirements, occupational safety, and related employment terms for Swiss workplaces including Bern.
- Datenschutzgesetz (DSG) - Swiss Data Protection Act: Establishes data protection standards for processing personal data and aligns with international privacy expectations. The revised DSG has been in force since 2023, affecting how Bern-based businesses handle personal information.
Source: The OR, ArG, and DSG are central to Swiss corporate and employment practice. Official background and updates are available on admin.ch and ch.ch resources.
4. Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a GmbH and an AG in Bern, Schweiz?
A GmbH is a limited liability company with capital usually divided into shares among members, while an AG is a joint stock company with share capital divided into shares. Both require registration in the Bern commercial register and have distinct governance structures.
How do I register a company in Bern and which office handles it?
Registration is filed with the Bern cantonal commercial register. You typically submit articles of association, founder details, and capital confirmation. The process includes name clearance and may be completed online where available.
When do I need a Swiss tax number and VAT registration for my Bern business?
You need a tax number upon establishment for VAT if your taxable turnover exceeds the threshold set by Swiss law. VAT registration is mandatory for cross-border activities and certain services regardless of turnover.
How long does it take to set up a GmbH in Bern?
Formation typically takes several weeks from document preparation to registration, depending on the completeness of filings and any third-party consents. A straightforward setup can complete within 4-8 weeks.
Do I need a lawyer to start a business in Bern?
While not legally mandatory, a lawyer helps prepare articles of association, ensure compliance with OR, and avoid pitfalls in contracts and registrations. This can save time and reduce disputes.
Can I sign contracts in Bern through a lawyer rather than personally?
Yes, you can authorize a lawyer to sign on behalf of the company and represent you in negotiations. Ensure the power of attorney clearly defines scope and limits.
What is the cost range to hire a business lawyer in Bern?
Costs vary by matter complexity and firm tier. Typical hourly rates for corporate matters range from CHF 200 to CHF 500 per hour, with fixed-fee engagements available for routine filings.
Is an annual general meeting mandatory for AGs in Bern?
Yes, AGs generally require annual general meetings and reporting. The frequency and rules for notice, voting, and minutes are set by OR and the company’s articles of association.
What should I know about resolving a partner dispute in a Bern-based company?
Disputes may be addressed through mediation, arbitration, or court action, depending on the agreements in the articles and governing law. A lawyer can draft dispute resolution provisions and represent you in proceedings.
Do I need to appoint a local Swiss director for a Bern GmbH?
A GmbH requires at least one director who can be a resident of Switzerland in some cases, and local presence can simplify compliance. Consider the implications for tax residency and governance.
How long does it take to register a change in share capital?
Change in share capital requires approval by shareholders, amendments to articles, and registration with the Handelsregister. Expect several weeks, depending on document readiness and authorities’ processing times.
What is the difference between cantonal and federal corporate rules in Bern?
Federal law sets general framework for company forms, fiduciary duties, and cross-border issues. Cantonal rules in Bern handle local registration, licensing, and specific regulatory requirements for certain sectors.
5. Additional Resources
6. Next Steps
- Clarify your business structure and ownership in writing, including whether you will form a GmbH or AG. Determine capital requirements and governance needs.
- Gather documents for Bern registration: identity proofs, articles of association, proof of capitalization, and any sector licenses. Create a checklist with deadlines.
- Check name availability and ensure it does not conflict with existing Bern registrations. Reserve the company name if possible.
- Prepare articles of association and initial resolutions with the help of a Bern-based attorney to comply with OR standards and cantonal requirements.
- Engage a local lawyer or law firm to review filings, draft critical contracts, and advise on regulatory matters relevant to your sector.
- Submit registrations to the Bern commercial register and monitor for processing updates. Plan for follow-up requests from authorities if any are outstanding.
- Establish ongoing compliance programs for annual general meetings, tax filings, and data protection obligations. Schedule reviews with your legal counsel at least annually.
Lawzana hilft Ihnen, die besten Anwälte und Kanzleien in Bern durch eine kuratierte und vorab geprüfte Liste qualifizierter Rechtsexperten zu finden. Unsere Plattform bietet Rankings und detaillierte Profile von Anwälten und Kanzleien, sodass Sie nach Rechtsgebieten, einschließlich Unternehmen, Erfahrung und Kundenbewertungen vergleichen können.
Jedes Profil enthält eine Beschreibung der Tätigkeitsbereiche der Kanzlei, Kundenbewertungen, Teammitglieder und Partner, Gründungsjahr, gesprochene Sprachen, Standorte, Kontaktinformationen, Social-Media-Präsenz sowie veröffentlichte Artikel oder Ressourcen. Die meisten Kanzleien auf unserer Plattform sprechen Deutsch und haben Erfahrung in lokalen und internationalen Rechtsangelegenheiten.
Erhalten Sie ein Angebot von erstklassigen Kanzleien in Bern, Schweiz — schnell, sicher und ohne unnötigen Aufwand.
Haftungsausschluss:
Die Informationen auf dieser Seite dienen nur allgemeinen Informationszwecken und stellen keine Rechtsberatung dar. Obwohl wir uns bemühen, die Richtigkeit und Relevanz des Inhalts sicherzustellen, können sich rechtliche Informationen im Laufe der Zeit ändern, und die Auslegung des Gesetzes kann variieren. Sie sollten immer einen qualifizierten Rechtsexperten für eine auf Ihre Situation zugeschnittene Beratung konsultieren.
Wir lehnen jede Haftung für Handlungen ab, die auf Grundlage des Inhalts dieser Seite vorgenommen oder unterlassen werden. Wenn Sie glauben, dass Informationen falsch oder veraltet sind, contact us, und wir werden sie überprüfen und gegebenenfalls aktualisieren.
