Transparency register: from 1 October 2026 SAs and Sagls report their beneficial owners

Updated October 2026 · by Dr Pier Paolo Gori

The Federal Act on the Transparency of Legal Entities and the revised Anti-Money Laundering Act have been in force since 1 October 2026. The Federal Council took the decision on 12 June 2026.

What changes

Legal entities must report their beneficial owners to a new federal register. For existing companies, the transitional periods run from 1 October 2026.

Who is affected

SAs, Sagls, cooperatives, SICAVs and other forms set out in the law. Some foreign legal entities are also covered, for example those with a branch registered in Switzerland. Exemptions include listed companies and subsidiaries more than 75% owned by them.

How, and who has access

Reporting is electronic, via EasyGov with an AGOV account, and free of charge. A simplified procedure applies to a Sagl whose members are all individuals and to a one-person SA where the shareholder is the sole director. The register is not public: only the designated authorities and financial intermediaries subject to the anti-money laundering law can consult it.

More: “Commercial register: what must an SA or Sagl register and update?”.

Sources: Federal Council, 12.6.2026 – new anti-money laundering rules · Federal Office of Justice – Transparency register FAQ