To open a coffee shop in Singapore, you need an SFA Food Shop Licence (the coffee shop license in Singapore) and the right sequence of approvals; here is the fastest path. 1) Premises: secure a unit approved for F&B (URA change-of-use where needed) and obtain landlord/HDB/MCST consent. 2) Design-build: plan a one-way workflow, washable walls/floors, at least a dedicated handwash basin with soap/dryer, separate sinks for prep and warewashing, a PUB-approved grease interceptor, chillers (<=5°C) and hot holding (>=60°C), pest-proofing, and compliant exhaust/hood; get SCDF permits for LPG/flammables and ensure fire-rated ducting. 3) Apply on GoBusiness: submit SFA Food Shop Licence with layout plan, equipment list, tenancy, and cleaning schedule; register all food handlers and ensure they pass WSQ Food Safety Course Level 1; appoint a Food Hygiene Officer if your scale/operations trigger it. 4) Ancillaries: apply for Liquor Licence if serving alcohol, signboard approval, and PUB sanitary/used-water clearance. 5) Inspection: conduct a mock audit (temperature logs, receiving checks, pest contract, thermometer, traceability records) before booking SFA pre-licensing inspection; fix defects immediately. Typical timeline is 3-6 weeks from tenancy to licence if submissions are complete; budget for fit-out, inspection fees, and licence renewals. Consider halal certification if targeting Muslim customers.
