Trusts in Switzerland
Switzerland does not have domestic trust legislation, but it recognises and administers trusts established under foreign law with a level of expertise and regulatory rigour among the highest in the world. Discover the legal framework, practical process and associated obligations.
Since the ratification of the Hague Convention of 1 July 1985 on the Law Applicable to Trusts and on their Recognition, which entered into force in Switzerland on 1 July 2007, trusts established under the law of a foreign jurisdiction (Jersey, Guernsey, the Bahamas, New Zealand, or English law, for example) are fully recognised in Switzerland. This recognition allows a Swiss-based trustee to administer trusts while benefiting from Switzerland's financial, legal and banking infrastructure.
Since 1 January 2020, the Federal Act on Financial Institutions (FinIA) subjects professional trustees to a licensing and supervisory regime under FINMA. This regulatory framework strengthens the credibility and security of trusts administered from Switzerland, while imposing strict requirements in terms of governance, compliance and anti-money laundering.
Foreign Trust Recognition
Switzerland recognises trusts established under foreign law through the Hague Convention. Legal framework and practical implications.
Learn moreFINMA-Licensed Trustee
Since 1 January 2020, professional trustees in Switzerland must obtain a FINMA licence under the Financial Institutions Act (FinIA).
Learn moreHow the Process Works
Key steps for establishing and administering a trust in Switzerland, from initial analysis to operational implementation.
Learn moreDocuments Required
Complete list of documents needed for trust establishment, identification of parties and regulatory compliance.
Learn moreTimeline
Typical timeline for the various phases: structuring, bank account opening, asset transfer and ongoing administration.
Learn moreCRS / FATCA Reporting
Reporting obligations of Swiss trustees regarding automatic exchange of information and international tax compliance.
Learn moreTrustee vs Protector
Distinct roles, respective powers and interaction between the trustee and the protector in trust governance.
Learn moreIndividual vs Institutional Trustee
Advantages and disadvantages of each model: natural person or professional trust company.
Learn moreWhy Switzerland
Political stability, legal certainty, financial expertise and regulatory framework: Switzerland's strengths as a trustee jurisdiction.
Learn moreNeed a licensed trustee in Switzerland?
Our team will guide you through trust structuring, establishment and administration from Geneva.
Request a confidential assessment