For many self-employed people, freelancers and online entrepreneurs it is an uncomfortable feeling: their own home address is publicly visible on the internet. Whether in the legal notice, the commercial register or on invoices – suddenly anyone can see where you live.
But it does not have to be that way. There are legal and simple solutions to protect your privacy.
Why your address is public in the first place
In Switzerland a clear rule applies: as soon as you are commercially active, for example with a website, an online shop or a social media business, you need an address for service.
That means:
- No P.O. box
- No anonymous solution
- A real, physical address
It must be stated, for example, in the legal notice or in official entries.
The problem: many people use their home address for this and thereby make it publicly accessible.
The risks of a public home address
Your home address on the internet can cause more problems than many people think:
1. Loss of privacy
Anyone can find out where you live: customers, strangers or dissatisfied buyers.
2. Unwanted visits
Especially with online businesses, customers may show up unannounced at your door.
3. Security risks
Your address can be abused for spam, fraud or other unpleasant situations.
4. Unprofessional impression
A home address often looks less credible than a business address.
The solution: a business address instead of your home address
The simplest and most effective solution is a rented business address, also known as a domicile address.
You use the official address of a provider as your:
- Legal notice address
- Business address
- Registered office, depending on the model
Your home address remains protected.
How it works in practice
- You rent a business address.
- You use this address for your legal notice and business documents.
- Your mail is forwarded or scanned digitally.
The result: your home stays private and your business looks professional.
Is this legal?
Yes, as long as the address meets the legal requirements:
- It physically exists
- Mail can be delivered there
- You can be reached, for example via mail forwarding
Many providers in Switzerland offer exactly this kind of solution.
Who benefits most?
A business address is ideal for:
- Freelancers and self-employed people
- Online shop operators, for example on Shopify or Etsy
- Coaches and consultants
- Content creators and influencers
- Start-ups without their own office
In short: for everyone who wants to look professional without sacrificing their privacy.
Alternative solutions and why they are often not ideal
P.O. box
A P.O. box is generally not sufficient as an official business address.
Address of friends or family
This is often problematic both legally and organisationally.
Coworking space
This is usually more expensive and not always suitable as an official registered office.
A specialised business address is therefore the cleanest solution in many cases.
Conclusion
If you do not want your home address on the internet, there is a clear option: use a business address.
This protects:
- Your privacy
- Your safety
- Your professional appearance
It is a small investment with a big effect.
Frequently asked question
Can I hide my address completely?
No. An address is required by law. But you can decide which address is publicly visible.
Next step
If you want to protect your business and position it more professionally, a business address is the easiest way to achieve both. Find the right package at adresse-mieten.ch.
Appear legally compliant without publishing your home address.
If you need a robust address in Switzerland for your legal notice, social media or business mail, an external business address is the direct route.