How to Configure Odoo 18 for Swiss Businesses: Taxes, Accounting & More

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
    
2. Why Swiss Localization Is Important
    
3. Step-by-Step: Setting Up Odoo 18 for Switzerland
   • Installing the Swiss Module
   • Adding Company Details
      
4. Setting Up Accounting for Swiss Rules
   • Using the Swiss Chart of Accounts
   • Setting Up VAT
   • Using QR Invoices
      
5. Setting Up Payroll for Swiss Employees
    
6. Legal Reports and Swiss Compliance
    
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
    
8. Final Thoughts
    

 

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Introduction

If you're running a business in Switzerland and using Odoo 18, it's important to set it up the right way for local rules. Switzerland has its own tax rates, accounting rules, and payment formats. Odoo makes it easier to follow these rules by offering built-in tools for Swiss businesses.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to set up Odoo 18 step-by-step for use in Switzerland — no tech jargon, just clear instructions.

 

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Why Swiss Localization Is Important

Every country has its own rules for things like taxes and payroll. In Switzerland, for example, there are special VAT rates, QR-bill invoices, and required insurance deductions for employees.

If your Odoo system isn’t set up properly, you could make mistakes in your taxes or payroll. Swiss localization helps you stay legal and save time.

 

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Step-by-Step: Setting Up Odoo 18 for Switzerland

1. Install the Swiss Localization Module

To begin:

1. Open Odoo and go to the Apps section.
    
2. Search for “Switzerland - Accounting”.
    
3. Click Install.
    

This module will add Swiss tax rates, invoice formats, and accounting rules to your system.

2. Add Your Company Details

Go to Settings > Companies, and make sure your Swiss company information is correct:

• Full company name
   
• Address (with Canton)
   
• VAT number (UID)
   
• Currency (CHF)
   
• Preferred language (German, French, Italian)
   

 

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Setting Up Accounting for Swiss Rules

1. Use the Swiss Chart of Accounts

Switzerland uses a special accounting system called the "Plan Comptable Suisse." After installing the localization module, this will be added automatically.

This setup makes it easier to track income, expenses, and taxes in the Swiss way.

2. Set Up Swiss VAT

In Switzerland, you’ll usually deal with these VAT rates:

• 8.1% for most products/services
   
• 2.6% for food and books
   
• 3.8% for hotels
   

To check or change VAT settings:

• Go to Accounting > Configuration > Taxes
   

You can also set which VAT applies to each product or service.

3. Use QR Invoices

QR-bills are now required in Switzerland. They include a scannable code for easy payment.

To enable this:

• Go to Invoicing > Settings
   
• Check the box for QR-Bill support
   

Now, when you create an invoice, Odoo will automatically add the QR code.

 

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Setting Up Payroll for Swiss Employees

Payroll in Switzerland includes several things like:

• Social insurance (AHV/AVS)
   
• Unemployment insurance (ALV)
   
• Pension contributions (BVG)
   

To get started:

1. Go to Apps and install the Switzerland Payroll module.
    
2. Go to Payroll > Salary Rules to see and adjust deductions.
    

This helps make sure your employees are paid correctly and legally.

 

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Legal Reports and Swiss Compliance

Swiss law requires businesses to file certain reports. Odoo helps with this by giving you reports like:

• VAT reports for the Swiss tax office (FTA)
   
• Annual balance sheets
   
• Profit & Loss (P&L) statements
   
• Payroll summaries
   

You’ll find these under Accounting > Reporting.

You can even export reports in the formats accepted by Swiss authorities.

 

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

Q1: How do I install Swiss localization in Odoo 18?

Go to the Apps section, search for “Switzerland - Accounting,” and install it.

Q2: Does Odoo 18 support QR-bills?

Yes! Odoo can automatically generate QR invoices once the QR-bill setting is turned on.

Q3: Can I manage Swiss VAT in Odoo 18?

Yes, it includes all Swiss VAT rates, and you can assign them to your products or services.

Q4: What payroll features are available for Switzerland?

Odoo includes social insurance, pension deductions, and tax rules. Just install the Swiss Payroll module.

Q5: Is Odoo 18 legal for use in Switzerland?

Yes, Odoo provides the tools needed for legal accounting and payroll, but always check with your accountant for updates.

 

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Final Thoughts

Setting up Odoo 18 for your Swiss business doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right modules and a few key settings, you’ll be ready to manage taxes, accounting, and payroll the Swiss way — all in one place.

Need help with setup or customization? Technaureus, an official Odoo partner, can help you configure your system to meet all Swiss business and legal requirements. Whether you're a startup or an established company, Technaureus provides expert guidance to make your Odoo implementation smooth and compliant.