Insurance and Social Security
Have your self-employment recognised by the compensation office
In Switzerland self-employment is not a status you choose but one the compensation office recognises. It examines whether you act in your own name and at your own risk and work for several clients. Without recognition you count as an employee under social insurance law and your clients are liable for the contributions. Self-employed people bear the OASI, disability and income compensation contributions alone and are not insured against unemployment. For third-country nationals self-employment additionally requires a permit.
Who this applies to. This guide applies if the employment situation in Switzerland is Self-employed.
Checklist
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File the application with the cantonal compensation office
The cantonal compensation office decides on recognition, not the commercial register.
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Enclose proof of several clients
Contracts, quotations or invoices to different customers; a single client speaks against self-employment.
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Check whether you are liable for VAT
From an annual turnover of 100,000 francs registration with the Federal Tax Administration (federal) is mandatory.
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Arrange your own pension and insurance cover
Self-employed people are not insured against unemployment; accident insurance and the second pillar must be taken out voluntarily.
Costs
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Recognition fee free of charge
The compensation office's recognition decision is free of charge. It does levy an ongoing administrative contribution of at most 5 per cent of your AHV/IV/EO contributions.
No total: the items depend on conditions and on your situation. A total without your answers would be too high or too low depending on the case — the cost calculation in your plan uses them.
Frequently asked questions
Who does this guide apply to?
This guide applies if the employment situation in Switzerland is Self-employed.
What does it cost?
Recognition fee: free of charge.
What do I need to do?
File the application with the cantonal compensation office; Enclose proof of several clients; Check whether you are liable for VAT; Arrange your own pension and insurance cover.
As of: 08.10.2026