To get a coffee shop license in Monaco, secure prior authorization to conduct a commercial activity (café/restaurant) from the Direction de l’Expansion Économique, then register your entity and obtain the specific food and premises permits. Start by locking a premises (letter of intent or lease) in a commercially zoned street, attach floor plans, a business plan with seating count, extraction/ventilation details, financing proof, ID, and clean criminal record to your authorization file; typical review runs 4–8 weeks. After approval, incorporate (SARL or sole trader) and register at the Répertoire du Commerce et de l’Industrie, enroll with CCSS/CAMTI, and file employee declarations with the Employment Service. Fit-out must meet fire and accessibility codes; coordinate grease trap, certified extraction hood to roof, potable water points, washable surfaces, and waste contract with SMA. Nominate an HACCP-trained manager and pass health inspection by the Direction de l’Action Sanitaire. If serving alcohol, obtain a débit de boissons/restaurant license (limited and often acquired by transfer) and a terrace authorization plus signage permit from the Mairie. Expect €3k–€8k in administrative and professional fees, but the real costs are the lease premium and fit-out. Don’t open until your authorization and inspections are stamped by all authorities first, officially.
