Transparency registry: New obligations for companies effective October 1, 2026

The registry is intended to provide authorities with rapid access to reliable information on ownership and control structures, thereby strengthening the fight against money laundering and terrorist financing. At the same time, it serves to ensure compliance with international standards, in particular those of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), which combats money laundering internationally.

The Federal Act on the Transparency of Legal Entities and the Identification of Beneficial Owners (TJPG), which takes effect on October 1, 2026, covers a wide range of corporate forms in Switzerland, including, in particular, stock corporations, limited liability companies, cooperatives, and selected investment and limited partnerships. Foreign companies are also subject to the regulation if they have a branch in Switzerland, their actual management is based here, or they own real estate in Switzerland. Exceptions include, among others, publicly traded companies, pension funds, and companies that are majority-owned by the public sector.

Affected companies are required to identify their beneficial owners, verify their identities, and document the relevant information. This information must then be reported to the transparency registry. Submissions are primarily made digitally via the EasyGov.swiss platform. At a later date, it will also be possible, under certain conditions, to submit reports through the cantonal commercial registry offices.

The transparency registry is part of a broader reform package aimed at combating money laundering and terrorist financing. The revised Anti-Money Laundering Act and the new Transparency Act close existing gaps in the regulatory framework and introduce additional due diligence obligations, for example for certain high-risk advisory activities. The aim is to significantly increase transparency regarding beneficial ownership and to strengthen the international credibility of the Swiss financial center.

Companies are advised to prepare for the new requirements well in advance. This includes, in particular, registering on the EasyGov.swiss platform and compiling the necessary information and documents for the registration. Further information on the specific requirements and applicable deadlines can be found on the Transparency Register website.