To start a coffee business in Denmark, secure regulatory approvals before fit‑out and negotiate a compliant lease. Choose a structure (Enkeltmandsvirksomhed or ApS with DKK 40,000 capital) and register a CVR at virk.dk; register for VAT (25%) once turnover exceeds DKK 50,000 in 12 months—most cafés opt in from day one; set up MitID Erhverv and a NemKonto. Register the food establishment with Fødevarestyrelsen at least 14 days before opening, implement a documented HACCP plan, and prepare for the Smiley inspection; ensure staff have documented food‑hygiene training. Coordinate with your municipality on change‑of‑use/ventilation permits, outdoor seating, signage, and a grease trap where required; if serving beer/wine, obtain an alcohol licence via the local bevillingsnævn and appoint a responsible manager. If roasting on site, obtain environmental and fire approvals and design ventilation for odor/noise compliance. Register as an employer with SKAT (eIndkomst), withhold A‑tax and AM‑bidrag, take out Arbejdsskade insurance, handle holiday pay via Feriekonto, and observe any applicable collective agreements. Select a POS that integrates MobilePay Business, Dankort/Nets acquiring, and Danish accounting (e‑conomic/Dinero). Stress‑test location economics (footfall, 3‑phase power, extraction, rent/exits), price for labor + VAT realities, and build demand with Google Business Profile, “kaffebar [district]” SEO, and office subscriptions.
