Value Added Tax (VAT)

The Value Added Tax (VAT) is an indirect consumption tax that was introduced in Switzerland in 1995 to replace the old turnover tax system. Swiss VAT is levied on goods and services sold in Switzerland. It is calculated based on the VAT rate applicable to the sold goods or services. Companies selling goods or services are required to collect VAT from their customers and remit it to the Swiss tax authorities. In Switzerland, all companies with an annual turnover of more than 100,000 CHF are required to comply with Swiss VAT (Art. 10 LTVA). Foreign companies conducting business transactions in Switzerland are also required to comply with Swiss VAT, unless they are exempt under an international tax treaty or only carry out VAT-exempt operations in Switzerland. The current Swiss legislation is the Federal Law governing value-added tax (LTVA), as well as its ordinance (OTVA). 

Different VAT rates in Switzerland

In Switzerland, there are three different VAT rates: the standard rate, the reduced rate, and the special rate. The standard rate is currently 7.7% and applies to most goods and services. The reduced rate is 2.5% and applies to basic necessities such as food, medicines, and books. The special rate is 3.7% and applies to accommodation services. However, starting from January 1, 2024, the standard rate will increase to 8.1%, the reduced rate to 2.6%, and the special rate for accommodation to 3.8%.
There are also exceptions to these VAT rates in Switzerland. For example, exports of goods are exempt from VAT. Imports of goods, on the other hand, are subject to import VAT (Art. 50 ss LTVA). Services performed outside Switzerland are not subject to Swiss VAT, but services performed in Switzerland are generally subject to Swiss VAT, regardless of the nationality of the service provider.

Certain goods and services are exempt from VAT in Switzerland. For example, medical services, banking operations, real estate rentals, and insurance are not subject to VAT. Cultural services, such as performances, concerts, and exhibitions, may also be exempt from VAT in Switzerland. Finally, there are special cases where the applied VAT rate depends on the use of the good or service.

Tax obligations regarding VAT

All companies that make VAT-liable sales must comply with VAT tax obligations. This includes invoicing, VAT declaration, and VAT recovery.
Invoicing is an important obligation for companies selling goods or services subject to VAT. Invoices must be issued in accordance with Swiss VAT rules and must include mandatory information such as the VAT number of the supplier and the customer.

VAT declaration is also an important obligation for companies. They must declare the VAT collected on their sales as well as the VAT they have paid on goods and services they have purchased. If the collected VAT is higher than the paid VAT, the company must remit the difference to the Swiss tax authorities.

Companies can also recover VAT on goods and services they have purchased for their activity. However, this recovery is subject to certain rules and procedures. Companies must provide proof of purchase and must comply with rules related to VAT deductions.

Advantages and disadvantages of Swiss VAT

Swiss VAT offers several advantages for businesses and consumers. Firstly, it simplifies taxation by avoiding the multiple taxes that exist in some countries. Secondly, it allows companies to deduct the VAT they have paid on their professional purchases, which can reduce their tax burden. Lastly, it generates significant revenues for the state, enabling it to finance public services.
However, Swiss VAT also has some disadvantages. Firstly, it can increase the cost of living for consumers who must pay a tax on every good or service they purchase. Secondly, it can be difficult to understand for individuals and small businesses not accustomed to managing tax obligations. Finally, it can lead to administrative burdens for companies that must comply with VAT tax obligations.

In conclusion, Swiss VAT is an important tax for businesses and the Swiss state. It is important for companies to properly understand the different VAT rates in force, as well as the exceptions to these rates and the tax obligations associated with them, to comply correctly.