To open a coffee shop in Switzerland, secure the cantonal hospitality license (Gastgewerbebewilligung/autorisation d’exploiter) for your premises and activity; requirements, fees, and exams vary by canton, so confirm them before signing a lease. Typical dossier: floor plans and seating, rental contract, fire-safety sign‑off, hygiene self‑control plan (HACCP), waste and allergen declaration procedure, proof of clean criminal/credit record, and a designated manager who holds the host permit/patent where required (e.g., Vaud, Geneva; Zurich/ Zug have lighter regimes). If you serve alcohol, add the alcohol permit; for sidewalk seating, apply for a terrace/public‑space permit with the municipality. Register the food business with the cantonal food inspectorate, implement temperature logs, potable‑water checks, staff hygiene training, and conspicuous allergen information for non‑prepacked items. Obtain SUISA/SWISSPERFORM licenses for background music. Choose a legal form (GmbH/AG for liability) and register for VAT when annual Swiss turnover reaches CHF 100,000. Ensure building code compliance (toilets capacity, accessibility, ventilation), smoking ban, noise curfews, and waste separation; grease traps may be required if you cook. Budget several weeks for approvals and several hundred to a few thousand francs in fees/training. Decision tip: a no‑alcohol, no‑kitchen concept shortens licensing, fit‑out, and staffing obligations and reduces total upfront capital needs.
