zsis) - Center for Swiss and International Tax Law

FTA refunded VAT credits during the Corona pandemic quickly

During the Corona Pandemic, 470 applications for early reimbursement of VAT credits have been received by the FTA so far. Applications amounting to CHF 235 million have been processed and paid out to companies within one to seven days.

Online invoicing of VAT becomes standard

The Swiss Federal Tax Administration (FTA) continues to expand its online applications. The announced switch from paper invoicing to online invoicing will take place on 1 January 2021.

Federal Council opens consultation procedure on the partial revision of the VAT Act and the VAT Ordinance

At its meeting on 19 June 2020, the Federal Council opened the consultation procedure on the partial revision of the Value Added Tax Act (MWSTG) and the Value Added Tax Ordinance (MWSTV). Against the background of the further development of VAT in the digitalised and globalised economy, it proposes, among other things, comprehensive taxation of mail order platforms and simplification of invoicing for SMEs. The proposal also implements other parliamentary proposals.

National Council rejects amendment of the Customs Tariff Act

In its session of 4 June 2020, the National Council rejected the amendment of the Customs Tariff Act (abolition of industrial tariffs).

Council of States approves regulation of VAT refund

At its meeting on 3 June 2020, the Council of States approved the regulation of VAT refunds.

FTA publishes 2019 activity report

The Federal Tax Administration (FTA) published its 2019 Activity Report on 17 April 2020.

FTA publishes measures and circulars due to coronavirus

The Federal Tax Administration (FTA) published measures due to the coronavirus on 26 March 2020, referring to the package of measures adopted by the Federal Council (see our contribution of 21 March 2020). Furthermore, on 24 March 2020 it issued a corresponding circular concerning payment relief for direct federal tax.

Federal Council approves coronavirus package of measures

At its meeting on 20 March 2020, the Federal Council approved various measures to cushion the economic consequences of the coronavirus. The tax measures are as follows: