How to Legally Start a Hospitality Business?

Everything You Need to Know About Work Permits

Opening a hospitality establishment – whether it’s a restaurant, café, or bar – requires much more than a good idea and a perfect recipe. To operate legally, you must fulfill legal obligations and obtain the necessary permits.

Below is a guide through two key steps for starting operations legally:

1. WORK PERMIT FROM THE SECRETARIAT FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP AND INVESTMENTS

This is the basic document that allows you to officially begin operations.

The application is submitted with the following documentation:

• proof of ownership or lease agreement for the premises (property deed or lease contract),
• employment contract for the venue manager (full-time),
• completed application form for entry into the Central Tourism Register,
• proof of payment of the administrative fee.

After reviewing the documentation, the Secretariat issues a decision and grants the work permit. Only then do you have the legal basis to open your doors to guests.

2. DECISION ON REGISTRATION IN THE FOOD TRADE REGISTER – FOOD SAFETY ADMINISTRATION

This permit is mandatory for all hospitality businesses engaged in the preparation, storage, and sale of food.

Required documentation:

• excerpt from the Central Register of Business Entities (CRPS),
• proof of ownership or lease of the premises,
• layout of the premises with clearly marked rooms, equipment, and flow of raw materials and finished products,
• proof of payment of the relevant fee.

After submitting the application, an inspector from the Food Safety Administration conducts a control inspection. If the premises comply with sanitary and technical regulations, a registration decision is issued – and your establishment is ready to operate.

HOW CAN WE HELP YOU?

As an accounting agency with extensive experience working with hospitality businesses, we provide complete support in:

• company registration,
• collecting and preparing the required documentation,
• managing the permitting process,
• accounting and tax services after the opening of the establishment.

This way, you can focus on what you do best – while we ensure your business is fully compliant with the law.