Establishing a Public Limited Company (PLC) in the Canton of Vaud
Establishing a Public Limited Company (PLC) in Canton Vaud: the path to your own company.
Establishing a Public Limited Company (PLC) in the Canton of Vaud
In the Canton of Vaud, with Lausanne as its capital, there is a vibrant environment for starting a Public Limited Company (PLC). The region is renowned for its universities, such as EPFL and the University of Lausanne, which offer valuable networking opportunities and foster innovation. The Vaud Trade Registry facilitates smooth company registration. The canton's economy is diverse, ranging from agriculture to technology and services. Vaud is also a popular tourist destination, offering additional business opportunities. With a multilingual population and proximity to international institutions, entrepreneurs can take advantage of a global network.
Establish a Public Limited Company (PLC) in the Canton of Vaud: here's how to do it!
Calculate a non-binding offer
Enter your start-up project conveniently online and benefit from cost sharing from our partners. In just a few steps you can compose your customized start-up package.
Enter the details of the Public Limited Company (PLC)
After calculating the non-binding offer, enter your company details. At this point you can order the formation of the Public Limited Company (PLC).
Get in touch
Our attorneys will contact you within the specified time (often less than 24 hours). You will receive all incorporation documents, discuss any uncertainties, and schedule a personal consultation.
Check the documents
You can consult, print and sign all the constituent documents at your convenience at home.
Authenticate the signature
At this point you must obtain official certification of the signature (e.g., from the local authority). This confirms that the signature is indeed yours.
Entry in the commercial register
We submit all incorporation documents to the commercial register and ensure that your company is successfully registered in the commercial register. In the case of corporations, the paid-up capital is transferred to a business account after publication and is available to your company.
Celebrate
Congratulations on the successful founding of your company. Your Public Limited Company (PLC) is now active and can operate.
The Public Limited Company in Switzerland
We believe that personalized advice is the key to best understanding our clients' individual needs and challenges and offering tailored solutions.
Forming a PLC: advantages
- Home to EPFL and UNIL — two of Europe’s leading research universities, driving deep innovation and tech talent
- Lausanne is an international city hosting the IOC and numerous global organisations, providing a prestigious business address
- Strong support ecosystem including the EPFL Innovation Park and Innosuisse-backed programs
- Thriving agri-food, life sciences, medtech, and financial services sectors
- French-speaking environment well-suited for businesses targeting French-speaking Switzerland, France, and Francophone markets
- High quality of life with lakeside setting, cultural events, and excellent transport links
Forming a PLC: disadvantages
- High commercial rents and labour costs in Lausanne and surrounding areas
- Complex cantonal bureaucracy can require expert local legal and administrative support
- Intense competition in tech and life sciences from well-funded, established players
- Networking-driven investment culture can disadvantage founders without existing local ties
- French-language administrative environment may present challenges for non-French speakers
What should I consider if I want to establish a Public Limited Company (PLC) in the Canton of Vaud?
A minimum share capital of CHF 100,000 is required for the establishment of a PLC, of which at least CHF 50,000 must be paid up.
Info: The founder of a PLC or LLC cannot draw on pension fund money because he is employed in his own company on the basis of an employment contract. He is therefore not considered self-employed under OASI law.
PLC requires at least one shareholder and one managing director, which can be the same person. A managing director with signature authority must also be a resident of Switzerland.
The audit is mandatory for 10 or more employees. Under Article 727 CO, a PLC is subject to ordinary audit if it exceeds two of the following thresholds in two consecutive fiscal years: Balance sheet total: 20 million francs - Turnover: 40 million francs - Full-time employees: 250.
Your PLC is subject to value added tax only if its turnover exceeds CHF 100,000. However, you can also voluntarily apply VAT to a lower turnover.
Useful information about the Public Limited Company
Key Facts: Establishing a PLC in Vaud
- Share capital: CHF 100,000 minimum (at least CHF 50,000 paid in at founding)
- Registration: Vaud Commercial Registry (Registre du commerce)
- Corporate tax rate: approx. 13.8% (cantonal + federal combined)
- Key sectors: Life sciences, medtech, financial services, agri-food, technology, tourism
- Language: French
How to Establish a PLC in Vaud: Step by Step
- Define your business plan — Outline your company’s purpose, structure, and capital plan before starting the legal process.
- Appoint founders and draft articles of association — At least one founder is required. The articles must specify share capital, purpose, and governance.
- Open a capital deposit account — Deposit the required share capital (minimum CHF 50,000) in a Swiss bank in the company’s name.
- Notarise the founding documents — Have the articles of association and founding declaration authenticated before a Vaud notary.
- Register with the Vaud Commercial Registry — Submit notarised documents, proof of capital deposit, and details of the board of directors.
- Obtain required licences and permits — Register for VAT if applicable and secure any sector-specific permits required in Vaud.
- Set up operations — Open a business bank account, register employees with social insurance, and establish your accounting processes.
Download the Checklist
Download the checklist for preparing for self-employment with a PLC in PDF format now!