To start a coffee shop in Malta, secure a compliant site and permits: pick a year‑round footfall location (Valletta, Sliema, St Julian’s, Gżira) and obtain Planning Authority use class 4C (no cooking) or 4D (with cooking) before signing a long lease. Register your entity with the Malta Business Registry, register for VAT with the Commissioner for Revenue, apply the correct restaurant/catering VAT category, and obtain a Trading Licence via the Commerce Department’s servizz.gov portal. Register as a food business operator with the Environmental Health Directorate, file an HACCP plan, ensure all staff hold valid food‑handling certificates, and book the pre‑opening inspection. For outdoor seating, apply for tables‑and‑chairs permissions through the Local Council/Lands Authority; if cooking or using dishwashers, install a grease interceptor per Water Services Corporation standards. Fit‑out for Malta’s realities: 3‑phase power for a 2‑group espresso machine, water softening/RO to counter limescale, correct drainage gradients, ventilation clearances, and a VAT‑compliant fiscal device registered with the Commissioner for Revenue. Budget for key money and rent in prime frontage, €1,500–€2,500/m² fit‑out, and €6k–€15k espresso kit, and allow 12–16 weeks for permits/utilities. Lock suppliers (local roaster or EU import), register as employer with Jobsplus, file contracts, and start Single Permit timelines early.
