To start a coffee business in Monaco, obtain an Autorisation d’exercer from the Direction de l’Expansion Économique (DEE) and pick the right vehicle—SARL (minimum capital €15,000) for a single site, SAM (€150,000) for institutional growth. Pre‑negotiate a commercial lease in a high‑footfall area (Monte‑Carlo, Condamine Market, Fontvieille) and compile the license file: draft lease, business plan, manager’s CV, criminal record extract, bank proof of funds. Open a Monégasque account to deposit capital; KYC is stringent, so prepare audited source‑of‑funds and references. Register food operations with the Direction de l’Action Sanitaire, implement HACCP, train staff, and design back‑of‑house with grease trap, hand‑wash sinks, pest control and potable‑water checks. For fit‑out, file works with the Service de l’Urbanisme; obtain Mairie permits for signage and any terrace, SMA waste contract, and fire sign‑off from the Sapeurs‑Pompiers. Register for TVA with the Direction des Services Fiscaux; apply correct rates (10% on on‑premise service; 5.5% on beans and eligible take‑away). Declare roles to the Service de l’Emploi, register with CCSS/CAMTI, and set up occupational health. Source via EU suppliers under French customs (EORI); importing green beans needs phytosanitary papers. Plan pricing for affluent clientele, accept Amex, and align opening hours and noise with local rules.
