To get a coffee shop license in Portugal, you register the activity and file a prior notification, then prove the premises meet food safety and municipal rules. Start by choosing CAE 56301 (Cafés), creating the company at the Commercial Registry, and registering a NIF with the Tax Authority, then Social Security. Through Balcão do Empreendedor submit the Declaração Prévia for “estabelecimento de restauração e bebidas,” attaching the alvará de utilização for the space, a floor plan, fire-safety declaration, ventilation/extraction specs, and HACCP plan. The municipality sets your opening hours and issues terrace (esplanada) and signage permits if needed; late hours or outdoor seating require extra fees, and noise rules may apply. Before opening, prepare for ASAE inspections: implement HACCP records, staff hygiene training, allergen info, pest control contracts, and traceability. If you serve alcohol, include that in the notification and respect local time restrictions. For music, obtain SPA and PassMúsica licenses. Use certified invoicing software (SAF-T (PT), QR code and ATCUD on receipts), display prices, no‑smoking signs, and keep the Livro de Reclamações (paper and electronic). Arrange collection of used cooking oil and waste. Choose VAT regime early; Article 53 exemption rarely fits cafés’ turnover. Budget municipal fees and timelines.
