Start a coffee business in Liechtenstein by securing a Gewerbebewilligung (trade license) from the Amt für Volkswirtschaft and registering your entity—Einzelfirma, GmbH (CHF 10,000 capital), or AG (CHF 50,000)—with the Handelsregister at the Amt für Justiz; open a CHF business account and register for Swiss–Liechtenstein VAT with the ESTV once global turnover approaches CHF 100,000 (restaurant services taxed at the standard rate, packaged beans typically at the reduced rate). Choose a leaseable site in Vaduz, Schaan, or near commuter corridors; verify extraction/flue feasibility, grease trap, water capacity, waste zones, and outdoor seating permits from the Gemeinde. File change-of-use and fire-safety approvals; implement an HACCP-based self-control plan and allergens disclosure, and notify the Lebensmittelkontrolle/Veterinärwesen inspectorate before opening. Source beans via the Swiss–Liechtenstein customs union; classify imports in Tares, confirm duties and sanitary rules for green coffee, and document origin for organic/Fairtrade claims. Hire legally by registering staff with AHV/IV/FAK, arranging accident insurance, and obtaining any required cross-border or residence permits; align pay and hours with applicable hospitality agreements. Fit POS to local preferences (TWINT, contactless), set COGS under 25%, and price for 70–80% gross margins. Expect 8–12 weeks from lease signing to soft launch. Include contingency funds and local marketing.
