Coffee shop business setup Hong Kong: open fast by choosing the right licence, securing a licensable site, and sequencing approvals. Incorporate a private limited company (Companies Registry) and obtain the Business Registration Certificate (IRD) within one month of commencing; then pre-lease due diligence: confirm FEHD licensability, roof-vent route for exhaust, grease trap capacity, 3‑phase power, potable water from WSD‑approved pipes, compliant means of escape, and landlord consent for “restaurant/food” use; stamp the lease within 30 days. For licensing, apply to FEHD for a Light Refreshment Restaurant Licence (coffee, reheating, no open flame) or a General Restaurant Licence (hot cooking/frying); submit layout plans, equipment schedules, drainage/ventilation details, and request a Provisional Licence to trade once core installations (FSI/FS251, ventilation, finishes, wash‑hand basins, refrigeration) are in place. Add-ons: Liquor Licence if serving alcohol, signboard under Minor Works, music licences (CASH/PPSEAL), and name a Food Hygiene Manager/Supervisor. Hire and onboard correctly: Employees’ Compensation insurance, MPF enrolment within 60 days, payroll/minimum wage compliance. Open a corporate bank account (business plan, lease, KYC), and set up Octopus/FPS acquiring. Taxes: two‑tier Profits Tax 8.25% then 16.5%; file NAR1 and renew BR annually. Typical timelines: incorporation 1–3 days; fit‑out 4–8 weeks; FEHD provisional 2–4 weeks, full 6–12.
