Swiss SRO membership
FINMA-recognised SRO membership under Swiss anti-money laundering legislation provides a fast and cost-efficient regulatory framework for crypto businesses in one of the world's most respected financial jurisdictions.
What this enables
Covered
SRO membership - covered activities
Not covered
Requires direct FINMA authorisation
Whis this is for
This structure is suited to:
Liquidity providers and market makers seeking Swiss regulatory status
OTC crypto trading desks
Crypto exchanges serving private or high-net-worth clients
Crypto brokerage businesses
Businesses looking for a credible alternative to EU MiCA/CASP registration
This is not the right fit if:
Your model involves deposit-taking, lending, or fiat-backed stablecoin issuance
You require EU passporting or direct access to EEA payment rails — a Latvian EMI or CASP registration is more appropriate
You are not prepared to meet the compliance and operational substance requirements of a Swiss entity
Registration process
Service Packages
Market Entry Package
Legal entity setup (capital account, incorporation, notary coordination)
SRO affiliation application (forms, business plan template, AML/KYC framework)
SRO onboarding communication
Corporate account opening support
Full Operational Setup Package
Legal entity setup (capital account, incorporation, notary coordination)
SRO affiliation application (forms, business plan template, AML/KYC framework)
SRO onboarding communication
Corporate account opening support
Registered office and legal address (1 year)
Local director (1-year mandate)
SRO onboarding communication
AML compliance officer / MLRO (through to SRO approval)
Third-party costs not included in either tier: state registration fee approx. CHF 500 · SRO membership fee approx. CHF 2,000 · bank fees per tariff schedule.
Service packages
Third-party costs not included in either tier: state registration fee approx. CHF 500 · SRO membership fee approx. CHF 2,000 · bank fees per tariff schedule.
Optional ongoing services (separate engagement)
Swiss residency and work permit advisory is available for founders who wish to act as local director — covering G permits (EU/EFTA nationals), B permits (relocation), and options for non-EU applicants.
Costs and regulatory requirements
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between SRO membership and a FINMA license?
SRO membership allows crypto businesses to operate as financial intermediaries under the Swiss Anti-Money Laundering Act. It is not a full FINMA license. Deposit-taking, lending, and payment institution services require direct FINMA authorisation. For most crypto trading and brokerage businesses, SRO membership is the appropriate and sufficient regulatory structure.
Do I need a Swiss director?
SRO membership requires local substance in Switzerland. The Full Operational Setup package includes provision of a Swiss resident director for the first year. Founders can alternatively obtain a Swiss residency or work permit to act as director themselves. DM Strategy provides guidance on available routes.
Which entity type should I use?
A GmbH requires a minimum of CHF 20,000 in capital and suits most small and medium-sized crypto businesses. An AG requires CHF 100,000 (50% payable at incorporation) and is appropriate for larger businesses or where share transferability is a consideration. DM Strategy advises on the right structure at the assessment stage.
Is SRO membership an alternative to EU MiCA compliance?
SRO membership operates under Swiss law and does not provide passporting rights into EEA member states. For businesses requiring EU market access, a Latvian CASP registration is the appropriate path. Switzerland suits businesses serving institutional clients or operating primarily outside the EU.
What are the ongoing obligations after SRO approval?
Ongoing obligations include annual SRO membership fees, AML/CTF compliance, and submission of required regulatory reports. DM Strategy provides ongoing compliance support as a separate service.
Understand your regulatory path before starting
The initial call covers your business model, the appropriate entity type, and whether SRO membership is the right regulatory structure for your situation.
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