Switzerland: Inward/ Foreign Investment

Switzerland's Federal Council proposes a stricter Lex Koller that would subject listed real estate funds, SICAVs, and real estate companies to authorization requirements for the first time. The reform aims to address housing shortage concerns but faces criticism for treating capital market investments like direct land ownership, raising questions about enforceability, proportionality, and unintended consequences for the financial center.

Switzerland's Federal Council has opened consultation on the Investment Screening Ordinance, which establishes the implementing provisions for the Swiss Federal Act on the Review of Foreign Investments adopted in December 2025. The ordinance details approval requirements, procedures, and exemptions for foreign state-controlled acquisitions of Swiss companies in critical sectors, while introducing anti-circumvention measures and a fee structure ranging from CHF 5,000 to CHF 60,000.

Bär & Karrer, a Swiss law firm, provides comprehensive legal and business solutions. Contact their Zurich office for expert assistance with legal advice, business inquiries, and professional services tailored to your needs.

Switzerland has long been known for its open economy and investor-friendly climate, attracting foreign direct investments (FDI) without significant regulatory barriers.

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Bär & Karrer beleuchtet in der November-Ausgabe 2024 von Legal Success, wie der aktuelle Entwurf des Investitionsprüfgesetzes den Wirtschaftsstandort Schweiz beeinträchtigt.

According to a new leading case of the Federal Supreme Court, the purchase of property by Swiss nationals may require authorization if it is substantially financed by foreigners.

New Zealand looks set to introduce changes to its land registration and purchase rules, which will effectively block buyers who are not ordinarily resident in or citizens of New Zealand...

On March 10, 2017, the goverment opened the consultation process ending on June 30, 2017, by presenting the draft legislation.