Tax on Selling Gold in Switzerland
Switzerland doesn't tax capital gains on private movable assets, so an individual who sells gold at a profit normally pays no income tax on the gain, however long it was held. Gold you own is part of your assets for the cantonal wealth tax.
Facts checked 30 October 2026 · Not financial, legal or tax advice
At a glance
| What you sell | How the gain is taxed | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gold bars, coins and jewellery (private assets) | Tax-free capital gain. | No holding period. |
| Gold traded as a business | Taxed as self-employment income. | Depends on frequency, volume, leverage and how business-like the trading is. |
| Silver, platinum, palladium | Same: private gains tax-free. | Bought with 8.1% VAT; investment gold is VAT-free. |
How gold gains are taxed
- Gains on the sale of private assets are exempt from federal income tax under art. 16(3) DBG; the cantons follow the same rule (art. 7(4)(b) StHG).
- The exemption doesn't apply if you're treated as a professional trader. The tax authorities' guidance for securities looks at holding periods of at least six months, turnover, gains relative to income, borrowing and derivatives.
- Gold counts toward your wealth tax, which each canton sets, valued at the 31 December price (the federal tax authority's price list). Personal jewellery in normal use is generally treated as household effects.
- Qualifying investment gold (bars of at least 995/1000, coins of at least 900/1000 that are or were legal tender) is VAT-exempt; silver, platinum and palladium carry 8.1% VAT unless kept in a free port.
Reporting
- A private sale isn't reported as income.
- Declare the gold you hold at 31 December as assets in your cantonal tax return for the wealth tax.
Losses
- Private capital losses can't be deducted from income or carried forward.
- Professional traders can deduct losses from their business income.
Tax on Selling Gold in Switzerland: FAQ
Do you pay tax on selling gold in Switzerland?
Not usually. Capital gains on private movable assets, including gold, are tax-free for individuals. Only people treated as professional traders pay income tax on the gains.
Is gold subject to wealth tax in Switzerland?
Yes. Gold you own at 31 December is part of your taxable assets for the cantonal wealth tax, valued at the year-end price.
Sources (4)
General information about the rules for individual investors, checked October 2026. Tax depends on your circumstances and residence; check with the tax authority or an adviser. Not tax advice.