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Payrolling Companies in Switzerland

Making Freelance Work Easy with an L Permit

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Starting your freelance journey in Switzerland as a web developer with an L permit can feel overwhelming – especially when navigating work permits, taxes, and administrative requirements.

The good news?
Payrolling companies offer an elegant solution that lets you work independently while enjoying employee benefits and simplifying the permit process.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about payrolling in Switzerland, recommend the best platforms based on real user reviews, and help you make an informed decision for your freelance career.

Understanding Your Situation

L Permit vs. B Permit

Before diving into payrolling options, let's clarify the permit landscape for freelancers in Switzerland.

The L Permit Challenge

If you currently hold an L permit (short-term residence permit), self-employment is generally not possible, as this permit is tied to a specific employer. The L permit is typically issued for contracts up to one year and comes with restrictions on changing employers. This creates a significant challenge for freelancers who want to work independently.

The B Permit Advantage

With a B permit (residence permit), EU/EFTA nationals can work as freelancers in Switzerland thanks to the Agreement on the Free Movement of Persons. You don't need a C permit (permanent residence) – a B permit is sufficient, provided you can demonstrate financial self-sufficiency.

The Payrolling Solution ✨

Here's where payrolling becomes your secret weapon: payrolling companies employ you as their employee while you work for your clients. This means:

  • You don't need to be self-employed to work independently
  • The payrolling company can sponsor your work permit
  • You maintain flexibility in choosing clients and projects
  • You receive all employee benefits (insurance, unemployment coverage, pension)

How Payrolling Works in Switzerland

Payrolling creates a three-party relationship between you (the consultant), your client company, and the payrolling company.

The Structure

Two contracts are established:

  1. An employment contract between you and the payrolling company (you become their employee)
  2. A service contract between the payrolling company and your client

The Process Flow

  1. You find the client and negotiate terms – rates, duration, project scope
  2. The payrolling company signs contracts with both you and your client
  3. You submit timesheets through their digital platform
  4. Your client pays the payrolling company, who then processes your salary
  5. You receive your salary with all taxes and social contributions handled

The payrolling company handles everything: invoicing, tax deductions, social security contributions, work permit applications, and compliance with Swiss regulations.

🌟 Top Payrolling Companies in Switzerland

Comprehensive Reviews

Based on extensive research and real user reviews, here are the best payrolling platforms for web developers and freelancers in Switzerland:

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⓵ PayrollPlus ⚡ – Best for Cost-Conscious Freelancers

Fee Structure: 1-3% of invoiced amount

Why It Stands Out:
PayrollPlus consistently receives exceptional reviews for being the most affordable option with lightning-fast payment processing. Multiple users praise them as "the best payroll company I ever had".

Key Features:

  • Ultra-fast payment: Salary paid within 1-2 days after timesheet submission
  • Lowest fees in the market: Only 1-3% (compared to 5% industry standard)
  • Two contract models: Flexible employment solutions
  • Digital platform: Easy-to-use online tool for invoicing and time tracking
  • Comprehensive insurance: UVG (accident), KTG (daily sickness), BVG (pension fund)

User Reviews: "PayrollPlus have been excellent. The best payroll company that I ever had. They always pay latest 2 working days after submission regardless of what date of the month. Larissa Moser from start to finish supported me 100%"

"After 6 years I am still very satisfied with PayrollPlus. I brought the client, my former employer, and they stay completely out of that relationship. I barely hear from them. They just receive and send money as the middleman and do a great job"

Best For: Freelancers who want to maximize take-home pay with minimal fees and appreciate fast, hassle-free service.

Discover
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⓶ sallis 🏆 – Best for Experienced Contractors

Fee Structure: Approximately 5%

Why It Stands Out:
As the leading payroll partner in Switzerland with experience since 2003, sallis has built an impressive reputation with over 4,000 freelancers.

Key Features:

  • SQS certified quality standards
  • Comprehensive employer of record services
  • Work permit assistance for foreign nationals
  • Digital salary calculator to estimate your take-home pay
  • National coverage across all Swiss cantons

User Reviews: "Surprisingly flexible, competent and personal - that's how I experience working with the sallis Payrolling Service team. The uncomplicated and flexible payrolling model was a decisive reason for me as a freelancer"

"Thanks to sallis' payrolling service, which is tailored to my needs, I save unnecessary effort and can concentrate 100% on my job"

Best For: Established contractors seeking a reliable, full-service partner with proven track record and high quality standards.

Learn
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⓷ Helvetic Payroll 🌐 – Best for Long-Term Contractors

Fee Structure: Approximately 5%

Why It Stands Out:
Founded in 2010 and now part of the Freelance.com group, Helvetic Payroll operates from offices in Geneva and Zurich with over 30 employees.

Key Features:

  • Established market presence with 10+ years experience
  • Offices in Geneva and Zurich for local support
  • National reach across all Swiss employment regions
  • Part of international network (Freelance.com group)

User Reviews: Recent feedback has been mixed. While many contractors report good experiences initially, some note that "standards seem to have dropped in the last 12 months or so. They are far less responsive, and I don't think they are particularly competitive on charges".

However, others still recommend them: "I have utilized their services, and I can vouch for their professionalism".

Best For: Contractors seeking an established company with physical offices and national coverage, though comparing current service levels with alternatives is recommended.

Explore
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⓸ Thalent 🔒 – Best for Permanent Employment Status

Fee Structure: Not publicly specified (contact for quote)

Why It Stands Out:
Thalent offers a unique advantage: permanent employment contracts rather than temporary payrolling arrangements.

Key Features:

  • Permanent employment contract (not just project-based)
  • Full social security coverage: unemployment, AVS pension, 2nd pillar LPP
  • 20+ years of experience
  • 100% digital process: contract signing, payslips, all online
  • Tax optimization support
  • No registration or deregistration fees

User Reviews: LinkedIn posts show active engagement with consultants, emphasizing security, simplicity, and freedom. The company maintains testimonials from satisfied consultants on their website.

Best For: Freelancers who value the security of permanent employment status while maintaining consultant flexibility.

Check

⓹ SPS (Switzerland Payroll Services) 💪 – Best for International Workers

Fee Structure: 5%

Why It Stands Out:
Part of the Interiman Group (4,400 customers, 30,000 temporary employees annually), SPS offers exceptional support for work permit applications.

Key Features:

  • Backed by major HR services group (Interiman)
  • Work permit application support – they handle the process for eligible workers
  • Secure online platform for timesheet and assignment management
  • Transparent dashboard showing assignment progress
  • JEM platform connecting freelancers with opportunities

User Reviews: Video testimonials emphasize the freedom and security combination that payrolling offers.

Best For: International workers who need assistance obtaining Swiss work permits, and those who want the backing of a large, established HR group.

Manage
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⓺ AD'Missions ⭐ – Best for International Consultants

Fee Structure: Not publicly specified

Why It Stands Out:
AD'Missions boasts an impressive 5-star rating on Trustpilot with 387 reviews, demonstrating exceptional customer satisfaction.

Key Features:

  • International umbrella employment services
  • SAGE SA subsidiary for international assignments
  • Strong reputation with 5-star Trustpilot rating
  • Comprehensive support throughout the process

User Reviews: "I worked with AD'Missions for a contract and was very pleased with the professional services. My contacts Oleh and Justine were phenomenal"

Multiple consultant testimonials praise their support, proximity, and services.

Best For: International consultants working across borders who need expert guidance and reliable service.

Leverage
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⓻ Diligo 🎯 – Best for Geneva-Based Workers

Fee Structure: Not publicly specified

Why It Stands Out:
Geneva-based with full licensing for permanent placement and hiring throughout Switzerland, Diligo specializes in supporting international organizations and multinationals.

Key Features:

  • 20+ years experience helping foreign nationals
  • Geneva headquarters with expertise in international organizations
  • Licensed for transborder activities
  • Full autonomy while avoiding legal structure setup

User Reviews: "I suggest checking out Diligo" – recommended by users on Reddit

Best For: Foreign nationals working in Geneva, especially those connected to international organizations or seeking work as accompanying partners.

Simplify
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⓼ MITC Consulting 🗺️ – Best for Swiss-Wide Coverage

Fee Structure: Not publicly specified

Why It Stands Out:
MITC emphasizes transparency, flexibility, and experience with nationwide presence across all major Swiss cities.

Key Features:

  • Offices throughout Switzerland: Zurich, Geneva, Lausanne, Basel, Bern, Neuchâtel, Fribourg, Sion, Lugano, Lucerne
  • Single contact number for all locations
  • Comprehensive profile support: consultants, employees, retirees, graduates, job seekers, cross-border workers
  • Risk-free entrepreneurship model

User Reviews: "MITC allowed me to provide my clients with outstanding service thanks to their system that greatly facilitates my professional tasks - it has met all my expectations"

Best For: Consultants who need local presence across different Swiss regions and appreciate nationwide coverage.

Go there!

Cost Comparison

What You'll Really Pay

Here's what you need to know about payrolling costs versus self-employment:

Payrolling Fees

Most payrolling companies charge between 1-5% of your gross invoiced amount:

  • PayrollPlus: 1-3% (lowest in market)
  • sallis, SPS, Helvetic Payroll: ~5%
  • Others: Contact for specific rates

What's Included

For this fee, you receive:

✅ Employment contract and employee status
✅ Complete social security coverage (AHV/AVS, IV/AI, EO/APG)
✅ Unemployment insurance (ALV)
✅ Accident insurance (UVG)
✅ Pension fund contributions (BVG/LPP)
✅ Tax withholding and compliance
✅ Invoicing and payment collection
✅ Work permit assistance
✅ Administrative management

Self-Employment Costs (For Comparison)

If you were self-employed, you'd pay:

  • Social security contributions: 10% of income (AHV/IV/EO)
  • Accounting/fiduciary services: CHF 1,000-3,000+ annually
  • Pension fund: Variable contributions
  • Insurance: Self-arranged and paid
  • VAT registration: Required if turnover exceeds CHF 100,000
  • Commercial register: If turnover exceeds CHF 100,000

Plus significant time spent on administration, taxes, and compliance.

The Bottom Line :💰For most freelancers, especially those starting out or with L permits, payrolling is more cost-effective and hassle-free than self-employment when considering the total cost of time, compliance risk, and benefits.

Choosing the Right Payrolling Company for You

Here's how to make your decision:

• If Cost is Your Priority

→ Choose PayrollPlus – At 1-3%, they offer the lowest fees while maintaining excellent service and fast payments.

• If You Value Experience and Reputation

→ Choose sallis – With 20+ years in business and over 4,000 freelancers, they're the established leader.

• If You Want Permanent Employment Status

→ Choose Thalent – Unique permanent contracts provide maximum security while maintaining flexibility.

• If You Need Work Permit Support

→ Choose SPS – Part of a major HR group, they specialize in handling work permit applications.

• If You're in Geneva

→ Choose Diligo – Geneva-based expertise, especially strong with international organizations.

• If You Work Across Multiple Cantons

→ Choose MITC – Physical presence in all major Swiss cities.

Payrolling vs. Self-Employment

The Full Picture

Advantages of Payrolling

✅ Work with L permit – No need for B permit self-employment approval
✅ Employee benefits – Full social security, unemployment insurance, pension
✅ Start immediately – Even with just one client
✅ Zero administrative burden – No accounting, invoicing, tax filings
✅ Work permit sponsorship – Company handles your permit
✅ Legal compliance – Company ensures all regulations met
✅ Paid holidays – Unlike self-employed

Disadvantages of Payrolling

❌ Fees – 1-5% of revenue goes to the company
❌ Triangular relationship – Company has some oversight of client contracts
❌ Less control – Can't make all independent decisions
❌ No business ownership – You're an employee, not a business owner

When Self-Employment Makes Sense

Consider going fully self-employed once you have:

  • B Permit with self-employment approval
  • Multiple established clients (requirement for self-employment)
  • Higher revenue where 5% fees become significant
  • Desire for complete independence
  • Strong administrative skills or budget for accountant

Getting Started

Your Action Plan🚀

Step 1: Choose Your Payrolling Company

Based on this guide, select 2-3 companies that fit your needs and priorities.

Step 2: Request Quotes and Information

Contact them for:

  • Exact fee structure
  • Contract terms
  • Onboarding timeline
  • Specific services included

Step 3: Prepare Your Documentation

You'll typically need:

  • Valid passport and current residence permit (L permit)
  • Client agreement or letter of intent
  • Professional qualifications (web developer portfolio/CV)
  • Proof of Swiss address

Step 4: Sign Employment Contract

The payrolling company will create:

  • Employment contract with you
  • Service contract with your client

Step 5: Start Working! 🎉

Once contracts are signed:

  • Submit timesheets through their platform
  • Receive salary within days (especially with PayrollPlus)
  • Focus 100% on your web development work

Digital Platforms and Modern Features📱

Most leading payrolling companies now offer excellent digital experiences:

  • Online portals for timesheet submission
  • Mobile apps for on-the-go access
  • Real-time dashboards showing assignment status
  • Digital payslips delivered electronically
  • Salary calculators to estimate take-home pay
  • Automatic invoice generation

Special Situations Addressed

◉ Working Remotely for International Clients

Several companies (PayrollPlus, Thalent, AD'Missions) specialize in supporting contractors with international clients while living in Switzerland.

◉ Cross-Border Commuters

If you live in a neighboring country but work in Switzerland, MITC and others offer specific support.

◉ Recent Graduates

Thalent and MITC specifically mention supporting recent graduates entering the workforce.

◉ Career Transitions

Multiple companies (sallis, Thalent) emphasize supporting professionals during reorientation periods.

⚠️ Important Considerations

◉ Permit Implications

While payrolling solves the L permit employment restriction, verify with your chosen company that they can sponsor L permit holders – most focus on B permit holders or those transitioning to B permits.

◉ Tax Optimization

As an employee of a payrolling company, you're subject to withholding tax if you're a foreign resident. Companies like Thalent offer tax optimization support.

◉ Long-Term Planning

Consider payrolling as a stepping stone:

  1. Start with payrolling on L permit
  2. Build client base and experience
  3. Apply for B permit
  4. Continue payrolling or transition to self-employment

◉ Contract Review

Before signing, consider having a Swiss lawyer review the employment contract, especially regarding:

  • Expense reimbursement policies
  • Sick leave requirements
  • Maternity/paternity leave coverage
  • Termination conditions

📊 Comparison Summary

Final Recommendations

For Your Situation (Web Developer with L Permit)

Best Overall Choice: PayrollPlus ⭐

Here's why:

  1. Lowest fees (1-3%) maximize your earnings as you build your business
  2. Fastest payments (1-2 days) improve cash flow
  3. Excellent reviews from long-term users (6+ years)
  4. Digital-first platform perfect for tech professionals
  5. Flexible contract models as your needs evolve

Runner-Up: sallis

If you prioritize experience and full-service support over cost, sallis's 20-year track record and comprehensive services make them an excellent alternative.

Making It Work

  1. Contact PayrollPlus first for a consultation and quote
  2. Also reach out to sallis to compare offerings
  3. Choose based on fee structure, responsiveness, and your gut feeling
  4. Start working within days of signing contracts
  5. Focus on building your web development client base
  6. Plan your transition to B permit for long-term flexibility

💡 Pro Tips from Experienced Contractors

📌 Negotiate your rate carefully

– Remember to factor in the payrolling fee when setting your client rates

📌 Keep detailed records

– Even though the company handles admin, maintain your own project records

📌 Build relationships

– Network with other contractors using the same company for insights

📌 Understand your employment contract

– Know your rights regarding holidays, sick leave, and termination

📌 Plan for growth

– Use payrolling to build experience and client base, then reassess in 1-2 years

Conclusion

Payrolling companies offer an excellent solution for web developers starting their freelance journey in Switzerland, especially with an L permit. They eliminate administrative headaches, provide employee benefits, handle work permits, and let you focus on what you do best – writing great code for your clients.

PayrollPlus emerges as the top recommendation for cost-conscious freelancers who want fast, reliable service with minimal fees. For those who prefer established, full-service providers, sallis delivers comprehensive support backed by 20 years of experience.

Whichever company you choose, payrolling will significantly simplify your transition to freelance work in Switzerland, letting you build your business without the complexity of full self-employment. As you grow and eventually secure your B permit, you'll have the option to continue with payrolling or transition to complete independence.

Your freelance Swiss journey starts here – take that first step and contact your chosen payrolling company today! 🚀🇨🇭