A circuit is provided for controlling a minimum operating voltage of an integrated control circuit of a switching power supply. The circuit includes at least one switch for switching the minimum operating voltage from a first voltage value to a second voltage value under conditions of low or null load of the switching power supply, and for switching the minimum operating voltage from the second voltage value to the first voltage value if the load of the switching power supply is greater than a predetermined load and the supply voltage is greater than the first voltage value. The minimum operating voltage can assume at least the first voltage value and the second voltage value, and the first voltage value is greater than the second voltage value. Also provided is a method for controlling a minimum operating voltage of an integrated control circuit of a switching power supply.