To open a coffee shop in Montenegro, register a DOO (LLC) with the CRPS, obtain a tax ID, and secure a business address; minimum share capital is €1 and setup takes 3–5 working days. Next, apply for hospitality/catering activity registration at the municipality, pass sanitary and fire-safety inspections, implement a HACCP plan, and get approvals for signage and any street-terrace use. Equip a fiscalized online cash register (e‑fiscalization) linked to the Tax Administration, and register for VAT if annual turnover will exceed €30,000 (standard rate 21%). Hire staff on local contracts, register them for social and health insurance, complete medical checks/sanitary booklets, and enforce the indoor smoking ban. If serving alcohol or food preparation, obtain the relevant licenses and a waste-disposal contract. Budget: €30k–€60k for fit‑out/equipment (espresso machine, grinder, water treatment, ventilation), plus deposits for Podgorica; coastal hotspots (Budva/Kotor/Tivat) command higher seasonal rents. Source beans from local roasters, calibrate grinders daily, and design a short, margin‑rich menu; price for tourist peaks April–October and a lean winter. Secure POS integrations for inventory and cost control, and license in‑store music via a local collective rights organization. Typical critical path to opening: 2–6 weeks depending on inspections and terrace approvals and utility hookups.
