To open a coffee shop in North Macedonia, secure the coffee shop license (municipal hospitality permit/categorization decision) after registering your company at Central Register (choose NKD 56.30 – Beverage Serving Activities). Steps: incorporate as DOO/DOOEL or sole trader and obtain a tax number; lease premises with compliant use; design to technical standards—restrooms, potable water, ventilation/extraction, fire extinguishers, evacuation plan; register as a food business operator with the Food and Veterinary Agency and implement HACCP; equip an approved fiscal device and connect to the Public Revenue Office; apply at the municipality for the hospitality permit, attaching lease, floor plan, fire-safety report, sanitary approval, proof of FVA registration, and staff medical certificates; if serving alcohol or offering music, add the alcohol endorsement and obtain a ZAMP license; for a terrace, request a public-space permit and pay the per m2 fee. Expect inspections by municipal, fire, and sanitary authorities before issuance. Obtain a signage permit and working-hours decision from the municipality. Typical timelines run 2–6 weeks, depending on fit‑out and inspections. Compliance tips: control noise (working‑hours extensions require stricter noise/security), display price list, issue fiscal receipts, maintain waste contracts, and enforce indoor smoking ban. Register for VAT if projected turnover exceeds the threshold.
