Swiss & cross-border VAT advice

Value added tax, VAT

Mehrwert-steuer, Umsatzsteuer, VAT

Anyone who generates turnover is subject to VAT — this applies both within and outside national borders. Unfortunately, putting this into practice is not always that easy. This is where we come in. With our expertise and experience, we support internationally active Swiss companies or foreign companies operating in Switzerland in the legally compliant handling of VAT. If desired, we can also take care of all dealings with the authorities - in other words, an all-round carefree package when it comes to VAT.

International VAT advice

Internationale Mehrwertsteuer-beratung

More and more countries are turning to indirect taxation. As the complexity, formal requirements and frequency of reforms in foreign VAT law are increasing, it is worthwhile to have a specialist on your side. As part of an international network, we can provide support in the following areas:

Optimizing tax strategy and processes

Restructuring flows of goods and services

Reducing the VAT burden abroad and looking for efficient ways of reimbursement

VAT registration (fiscal representation) and compliance in the EU and worldwide

Adapting IT systems such as SAP

Custom duties and fees

Companies engaged in international trade in goods must ensure that they comply with all regulations and keep their costs under control while enhancing their efficiency. Sometimes only a few adjustments are required  to be allowed to import or export goods of preferential origin free of customs duty. We can help you with this. Our services includes:

Review of national and international customs processes and risks as well as potential for optimization

Investigation of disputes in customs matters

Applications for procedural facilitation

Binding customs information

Information on innovations in Switzerland, the EU and worldwide

Preferential origin of goods, movement certificates in the international network. with regard to  VAT and customs aspects, to efficient ways of reimbursement worldwide, to optimization potential, as well as long-term supplier declarations.

Our experts

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Tax representative

The nomination of a representative with a place of residence or business in Switzerland is mandatory.

The appointment of a fiscal representative does not constitute a permanent establishment in Switzerland. 


However, a fiscal representative is required, for example, if a foreign company wishes to reclaim VAT paid in Switzerland (input tax refund).

As tax representatives, we generally assume all rights and obligations of the foreign company. In particular, the company assumes the obligation to submit all tax returns and other (statistical) reports on time and to pay the resulting taxes.

A tax representative is also required if a foreign company wants to recover the value added tax paid in Switzerland (input tax refund).

Trusted by 3,500+ clients

Alexander Fischer
Swiss-Bellhotel du Parc Baden

With A&O KRESTON AG, we have a reliable advisor who supports us with great commitment in all tax and accounting matters. A&O KRESTON AG stands out for its expertise, short response times and tailor-made services.”

Christelle Müller & Vera Maag
Petit Stellou

Since 2017, A&O KRESTON has been supporting us with operational, legal and accounting issues. A&O KRESTON provides friendly and competent support for our brand development as well as with questions relating to (online) retail and the associated challenges at home and abroad.”

Maria Vila
Franz Carl Weber AG

Dynamic, efficient, innovative, combined with a dedicated and well-established team, these are all points that speak for A&O KRESTON AG. I am looking forward to continuing to work together.”

Serkan FiRat
Druckfabrik Züri GmbH

A&O KRESTON is simply indispensable for us. Their availability is of paramount importance to us, especially when it comes to ensuring smooth representation in times of vacation absences. Being able to hand over tasks and knowing they're in reliable hands has made our workload a lot easier. Their continuous presence and expertise makes them the first choice for us!”

Do you have any questions?

We are a hello away from you:

+41 (0) 58 101 02 02hello@kreston.ch