Online & Platforms
OnlyFans, cam sites, your own website – what applies in Switzerland?
Questions in this area
How do I tax OnlyFans income in Switzerland?
OnlyFans income is taxable earned income (Art. 18 DBG) - whether from a hobby or professionally. Payouts are usually made via SEPA or Paxum and must be fully declared. For annual sales > CHF 100,000, VAT (8.1%) applies. OnlyFans itself does not withhold any Swiss tax. Recommendation: for sales of CHF 20,000 or more, engage a trustee, keep monthly accounting, and document all platform payouts.
What do I have to legally observe on my own website?
Mandatory information: complete imprint (Art. 322a StGB / Art. 3 UWG): Name, address, contact - even for artist names, a deliverable address must be included in the imprint (can be a PO box or business address). Data protection declaration in accordance with revDSG (mandatory since 2023). Cookie banner for tracking. Age verification (at least click confirmation) for explicit content. Payment content (e.g. price list) clearly declared, general terms and conditions for bookings recommended.
Someone is using my pictures for fake profiles – what can I do?
Three legal protection paths: (1) Right to one's own image (Art. 28 ZGB) - violation of personality, action for injunction. (2) Copyright (URG) — if you took the images yourself, you have copyright. (3) revDSG — unlawful processing of personal data (image = personal data). Practical: Platform report (DMCA notice), if necessary a lawyer (inexpensive initial consultation about Aspasie/Xenia/FIZ), and in the case of sextortion, also the police.
More topics
Law & Permits
Obligation to obtain a permit, restricted areas, cantonal differences in Switzerland.
Taxes & Social Security
Tax liability, AHV registration and accounting for sex workers.
Security & Protection
Personal safety, emergency numbers and protection against attacks.
Work practice
Advertising, pricing, house rules and dealing with customers.
These answers are general information and do not replace individual legal advice. If you have specific questions, contact a specialist office (see contact points) or a lawyer.