When is fiscal representation required in Switzerland?

If your company imports goods into Switzerland or provides taxable services without a registered Swiss entity, you must appoint a fiscal representative to manage VAT compliance.

Can Gerlach act as our fiscal representative?

Yes. Gerlach Switzerland is authorised to represent non-resident companies before the Swiss Federal Tax Administration and manages all related VAT obligations.

How often do VAT returns need to be filed?

Typically, VAT returns are filed quarterly, although monthly reporting may apply to larger companies. Gerlach prepares and submits all returns according to your registration type.

What are the benefits of having a fiscal representative?

Appointing Gerlach as your fiscal representative ensures full VAT compliance, timely declarations, and simplified communication with authorities — preventing penalties or delays.

Can fiscal representation be combined with customs services?

Absolutely. Gerlach manages both customs clearance and VAT representation, ensuring a seamless link between import procedures and fiscal reporting.

Fiscal Representation in Switzerland

Local VAT management for non-resident companies trading in Switzerland

Foreign companies importing goods into Switzerland or providing taxable services without a local establishment are required to appoint a fiscal representative. This ensures compliance with Swiss VAT (MWST) legislation and enables proper declaration, accounting, and tax payments.

Gerlach Switzerland acts as your official fiscal representative – managing VAT registration, ongoing declarations, and direct communication with the Swiss Federal Tax Administration (ESTV). With decades of experience and multilingual experts, we simplify Swiss tax compliance so that your business can focus on cross-border operations instead of administrative complexity.

This Service is only available in: Switzerland

How Gerlach Supports Fiscal Representation

We ensure that non-Swiss companies can trade in Switzerland legally and efficiently by managing all VAT-related formalities.

VAT registration

We register your company for Swiss VAT (MWST) and obtain a local tax identification number.

Fiscal representation

Acting as your legal representative before the Swiss Federal Tax Administration.

VAT return preparation and submission

Periodic calculation, reporting, and submission of all VAT declarations.

Tax payment coordination

Managing VAT settlements and ensuring compliance with Swiss payment deadlines.

Ongoing advisory and communication

Handling correspondence with authorities and providing guidance on VAT treatment for imports and services.

Our Fiscal Representation Process

Our structured six-step approach ensures that your business remains fully compliant with Swiss VAT requirements.

Initial assessment: Determining your VAT obligations and whether fiscal representation is required.

Registration setup: Preparing all forms and registering your business with the Swiss tax authorities.

Documentation review: Checking invoices, contracts, and import records for VAT compliance.

Declaration and reporting: Preparing and filing quarterly or monthly VAT returns.

Payment management:Coordinating VAT settlements and communication with the ESTV.

Continuous support: Providing updates on changes to Swiss VAT law and ongoing consulting

Why Gerlach for Fiscal Representation in Switzerland?

Local tax expertise

Our specialists understand Swiss VAT law and ensure precise, compliant reporting for every transaction

Trusted intermediary

Acting as your official representative with Swiss tax authorities, we handle all communication and obligations on your behalf

Efficient integration

Fiscal representation and customs processes are managed together, ensuring consistent and accurate data across systems

Multilingual support

Teams fluent in English, German, French, and Italian provide smooth coordination with both clients and authorities

Reliable partner

With over 140 years of experience, Gerlach guarantees professionalism, transparency, and compliance in all fiscal operations

Complementary Services

Import Customs Clearance

Seamless coordination between customs and VAT registration processes.

Export Customs Clearance

Ensuring VAT exemption for exports under Swiss tax law.

Transit Procedures

Handling goods under customs control for deferred VAT liability.

AEO Application

Supporting compliance and certification for trusted trader status.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is fiscal representation required in Switzerland?
If your company imports goods into Switzerland or provides taxable services without a registered Swiss entity, you must appoint a fiscal representative to manage VAT compliance.
Can Gerlach act as our fiscal representative?
Yes. Gerlach Switzerland is authorised to represent non-resident companies before the Swiss Federal Tax Administration and manages all related VAT obligations.
How often do VAT returns need to be filed?
Typically, VAT returns are filed quarterly, although monthly reporting may apply to larger companies. Gerlach prepares and submits all returns according to your registration type.
What are the benefits of having a fiscal representative?
Appointing Gerlach as your fiscal representative ensures full VAT compliance, timely declarations, and simplified communication with authorities — preventing penalties or delays.
Can fiscal representation be combined with customs services?
Absolutely. Gerlach manages both customs clearance and VAT representation, ensuring a seamless link between import procedures and fiscal reporting.

Trade in Switzerland with Confidence

With Gerlach Switzerland as your fiscal representative, you meet all Swiss VAT requirements while maintaining full transparency and control. We handle registration, declarations, and tax communication – so your business stays compliant and focused on growth.

Contact our fiscal representation specialists today to simplify your Swiss VAT management.