Swiss representative and paying agent services
Key services for foreign funds in Switzerland
Our expertise
The distribution or marketing of foreign collective investment schemes (CIS) in Switzerland may require the appointment of a Swiss representative and paying agent.
The requirement depends on the target investor base, the distribution framework, and the applicable regulatory exemptions. In most structured distribution or marketing activities, particularly those directed at non‑qualified investors, Swiss representation must be in place before any offering or pre-marketing occurs.
Legal representation & paying agent services
Swiss representation involves ensuring that all fund documentation complies with local regulatory standards, acting as the main point of contact for Swiss authorities, and supporting smooth interactions with FINMA throughout the fund’s presence in the market. This service helps foreign asset managers meet Swiss regulatory expectations efficiently and maintain ongoing compliance with confidence.
Onboarding & regulatory support
After an initial call to guide fund managers through the Swiss regulatory framework and key requirements, Rothschild & Co conducts a full due‑diligence review and prepares the necessary Swiss representation and/or paying‑agent agreements. Once these steps are completed, the funds can be legally offered in Switzerland.
Legal framework
Under the Swiss Financial Services Act (FinSA), fund managers must classify their investors and follow Swiss conduct and organisational rules when offering financial services in Switzerland. FinSA may also require affiliation with an ombudsman and registration of client advisers who deal with Swiss‑based clients.
Under the Collective Investment Schemes Act (CISA), the requirements depend on the type of investors targeted. A Swiss representative and a Swiss paying agent are needed when AIFs or UCITS are offered to retail clients or to high‑net‑worth individuals and private clients who opt out to be treated as professionals. These appointments are not required when funds are offered only to “per se” professional or institutional investors.