Relocation to the Canton of Solothurn | Migration Law, Corporate Law and Tax

Overview

The Canton of Solothurn is located in northwestern Switzerland and serves as a vital industrial and logistical hub between Basel, Bern, and Zürich. With around 285,000 residents (2023), its capital is Solothurn, known as Switzerland’s “most beautiful baroque town.” The canton offers a highly diversified economy and a central location for Swiss and European market access.

Economic Strengths & Infrastructure

✔ GDP: A strong contributor to Swiss manufacturing, energy, and healthcare-related services.
✔ Key Industries: Medtech, precision mechanics, machinery, logistics, ICT, and renewable energy.
✔ Education & Research: University of Applied Sciences Northwestern Switzerland (FHNW), and technical colleges supporting applied R&D and vocational training.
✔ Transport & Connectivity: Strategic motorway and rail access to Basel, Bern, and Zürich; efficient freight logistics and proximity to major airports.

Taxation

Legal entities: Legal entities are subject to a corporate income tax at the tax rate of 15.3% (Solothurn) and a capital tax of 0.17% on taxable equity. The capital tax is offset against the corporate income tax. Thus, if the corporate income tax liability is higher than the capital tax, no capital tax is due. Dividend income and capital gains from qualifying participations are exempted from corporate tax due to the participation exemption.

Individuals: Individuals are subject to progressive income tax with the top effective tax rates between 29.25% (Kammersrohr) and 37% (Zullwil). Private capital gains are tax exempt and dividends from qualifying participations are taxed with a discount of 30% at the cantonal and 30% at the federal level. Therefore, depending on the income structure, the effective tax rate may be significant. The canton levies wealth tax on an individual’s net wealth. Lump-sum taxation regime available.

Government Support for Business Location

	✔ Solothurn Economic Development Office Provides support for company relocation, permits, financing options, and integration with business networks. Learn more
	✔ Regio Energie Solothurn – Business Services Provides energy infrastructure solutions and sustainable utility services for commercial operations. Learn more
	✔ Solothurn Chamber of Commerce (SOHK) Supports entrepreneurs with legal advice, local networking, and export/import assistance. Learn more
	✔ Switzerland Innovation Park Biel/Bienne (regional access) Supports start-ups and industrial tech companies near Solothurn through regional partnerships. Learn more

Additional Advantages

✔ Efficient legal and administrative processes for business formation and migration.
✔ Well-developed industrial zones and affordable commercial real estate.
✔ High quality of life: cultural richness, excellent schools, and attractive residential areas near nature.

Useful Official Links

The Canton of Solothurn provides strategic access to Swiss and EU markets, strong industrial infrastructure, and a supportive legal and business environment. LINDEMANNLAW assists entrepreneurs, families, and investors with migration law, corporate law, tax structuring, and relocation support tailored to Solothurn.