To open a coffee shop in the Czech Republic, secure the Hostinská činnost (hospitality) trade license and verify your premises can be approved by the hygiene and fire authorities before you sign the lease. Choose structure: živnostník (sole trader) for simplicity, or s.r.o. (LLC) for liability shielding, investor credibility, and easier hiring; s.r.o. requires a registered address, bank account, and beneficial owner registration. Hostinská činnost is a tied trade—prove professional competence (gastronomy qualification/experience) or appoint an odpovědný zástupce (responsible representative); the Trade Licensing Office typically issues within 5 business days. Register with the Financial Office, ČSSZ, and your health insurer; non‑EU owners need residence/work authorization. Before opening, notify the Regional Hygiene Station (KHS), implement an HACCP plan, ensure washable surfaces, separate food/storage zones, potable water documentation, allergen disclosure (EU 1169/2011), and staff entry medical checks; arrange fire safety measures and any change‑of‑use approval with the Building Authority. If serving alcohol, register as a retailer with the Customs Administration; playing music requires OSA/INTERGRAM licenses. Terrace use needs a municipal permit; indoor smoking is banned; EET was abolished. VAT is mandatory over CZK 2,000,000/12 months; voluntary VAT can optimize fit‑out input tax. Nail costs early: grease trap (hot kitchen), waste contract, hood/venting, guest WCs per building code, and POS/acquiring.
