How Do You Apply for a Fintech License in Switzerland?

The growing demand for online payment and digital transactions has reshaped the banking landscape. Fintech companies are at the helm of this transformation by providing a wide range of services, including wallet payments, P2P lending, and international transactions. Given the current demand and market conditions, these services are expected to experience significant growth over time, creating unprecedented opportunities for businesses seeking to expand in the fintech sector. That said, if you wish to obtain a fintech license in Switzerland, this guide provides a tangible roadmap covering the underlying regulations, required documents, and processes. So let’s get started.

What is a Fintech License in Switzerland?

FinTech License refers to a mandatory legal permit granted by the apex government body, viz. FINMA. Introduced in January 2019, the fintech license aimed at reshaping the financial ecosystem. This Swiss fintech license enables the licensee to provide “specific services” to end-users, including digital wallet, fund deposit, cross-border transactions, credit facilitation, and so on.

Many confuse fintech companies with traditional banks. Unlike conventional banks, fintech companies do not have the right to invest the public's deposits or pay interest on them. Additionally, these firms cannot use public deposits as a means to safeguard members’ assets in the event of bankruptcy.

Who Can Apply for a Fintech License in Switzerland?

Adhering to the following requirements is mandatory for you to qualify for a fintech licence in Switzerland:

• The Swiss fintech company can accommodate a threshold of public deposits, currently set at CHF 100 million.  Non-compliance with this requirement can put the licensee under FINMA’s scrutiny, resulting in stringent penalties. However, the new legislative changes are in the motion to remove the CHF 100 million requirement, with no upper cap on the amount.
• According to Article 1b of the Banking Act, you can seek a fintech license in Switzerland only if your venture is registered as:
  • A company limited by shares or
  • Corporation with unlimited partners or
  • Limited liability company
• You must ensure economic substance, and to prove the same, you must have a registered office in the country.
• Your company should have adequate IT resources to bring fintech operations to life.
• It is important for you to enforce Anti-Money Laundering policies, which are in line with the prevailing legislation.
• Ensure you have a proper risk management system in place for tackling challenging scenarios.

What are the Documents Required for a Swiss Fintech License?

Applying for a fintech licence in Switzerland requires arranging the following documents. Please keep in mind that this list is generic; you may have to submit additional documents based on the structure of your business:

• Articles of Association
• Declaration concerning pending and concluded proceedings (form B1, signed and dated)
• Declaration of qualifying participations (form B2, signed and dated)
• Documents evidencing the origin of funds
• Personal details of the applicant, including a valid identification document (signed and dated)
• Copy of the residence or settlement permit (in case of overseas nationals)
• Swiss criminal records extract (applicable for foreign nationals who have spent less than five years in Switzerland)
• Extract from the debt collection register
• A CV signed by the directors and members, reflecting academic and professional qualifications.
• A business plan for the next three years
• Balance sheet and income statement
• Detailed description of business activities and processes
• Liquidity planning for contingencies
• Organizational chart
• Details pertaining to business premises and physical infrastructure
• Policies relating to the international control system and Anti-Money Laundering
• Outsourcing related documents, if any
• Documents relating to the management of operational risks

The list aligns with the FINMA Guideline for Art. 1b applications. In 2026, FINMA is also emphasizing a comprehensive IT Audit Report.

How to Obtain a Fintech License in Switzerland?

Here are 5 easy steps for you to secure your Swiss fintech license:

Step 1: Incorporate a Swiss Company

Since fintech is a compliance-laden industry, you must choose a business structure that can withstand management upheaval efficiently. Some common structures include:

• Aktiengesellschaft (AG)- Joint Stock Company
• Gesellschaft mit beschränkter Haftung (GmbH) - Limited liability company

Step 2: Appoint an Agent or a Service Provider

Hire a certified Swiss agent or a seasoned service provider like us to navigate regulatory hurdles efficiently. Doing so can help you save money and effort in dealing with the long list of regulations for company formation in Switzerland.

Step 3: Submit a Project Presentation to FINMA

While not a mandatory requirement, you can share a detailed presentation with the FINMA to showcase the project’s viability and tangibility. Here’s what you need to add to the project presentation.

• Business Model
• Activities you intend to pursue under a license
• Objectives behind the project
• Details concerning the current financial standing and origin of funds
• Organization details, including management hierarchy
• If the project is a group effort, an overview of the group structure
• Power of attorney (if your company is intended to be managed by a Swiss director)

FINMA’s approval will ease the path ahead of you.

Step 4: File an Application

Your agent or a service provider will assist you in applying to secure a fintech license in Switzerland. Make sure to meet the requirements mandated by the law and regulators.

Step 5: Registration of Your License

Once you submit your application, FINMA will thoroughly vet the paperwork for completeness and compliance. Additionally, it may also assess the technological and IT resources necessary for supporting the project.  The inspection may last from several weeks to several months, depending on the compliance threshold and the project's complexity. Once approval is granted, the applicant will receive the certificate, enabling them to pursue qualified fintech activities.

Conclusion

Business Set Worldwide (BSW) can help you navigate the entire process seamlessly from start to finish. Neither do you have to worry about company formation, nor do you need to prepare compliance-intensive documentation. Our experts will bring you tailored support every step of the way. Contact us now to get started.