If foreign entrepreneurs are interested in investing in Slovakia’s catering sector, they should be aware that they can incorporate a restaurant using the same general registration procedure as any other sort of business. Companies established in this business must, however, get unique permits and licenses that will control their activities to the requirements of local legislation. Investors can contact a group of Slovakian company formation experts with questions about the registration of a restaurant in that country. These experts can also help with other business-related issues.
Forms of business you should use in Slovakia to operate a restaurant
Slovakia’s food sector is fairly developed, and it’s not just in terms of restaurants many other establishments that provide food services can be established here. Foreign businesses must therefore think carefully about the right kind of framework for their eateries. When opening a restaurant in that country, one of the most crucial factors to take into account is its size. When opening a restaurant here, foreign businesses will find it simple to take into account one of the following company formats:
- The limited liability company is fairly familiar to use because it resembles LLCs in other nations.
- The alliance is appropriate for individuals looking for a local partner with market knowledge.
- The joint venture is appropriate for international restaurants looking to partner with regional enterprises.
- By bringing a local brand to Slovakia, a franchise ensures its success.
- The sole proprietorship is appropriate for Slovakia’s little restaurants and catering companies.
It is feasible for a foreign businessperson to open a restaurant as a sole proprietorship and later convert the business structure to a limited liability corporation.
Create a restaurant enterprise in Slovakia
Entrepreneurs who want to start a business that performs catering services must register a trading name at the Commercial Register of the location where the business will be located.
Select a legal entity to represent the restaurant, and then prepare the company’s statutory documents
These documents will include information on the firm’s operations, its shareholders’ obligations to the company, and a variety of other topics. The documents must be notarized by a public notary.
Register for health insurance, income tax, and business permits
One document must be submitted to the Trade Licensing Office to start the procedure; the entrepreneur must then register with the Tax Authority Office to pay local taxes. Opening a bank account and establishing a company address are further requirements.
Obtain licenses for a restaurant in Slovakia
Slovakia requires businesses opening restaurants to get a variety of permits, which attest to the establishment’s compliance with local laws. The restaurant must obtain a license attesting that the staff members handle the food in line with the law. The restaurant will also need permits to sell the food and beverages. When a restaurant provides entertainment for weddings or other events, certain rules must be followed, and investors can get guidance with these rules from our experts in business formation.
Getting a food license for a restaurant in Slovakia
The restaurant industry in Slovakia is subject to several licensing requirements, as was previously indicated. One of them speaks about acquiring a food license, commonly referred to as permission for catering and the preparation of ready meals. Under Slovakia’s Trades Law, there are several requirements to be met to receive such a license. These circumstances imply that:
- Being of legal age (18), having no criminal history, and being mentally capable of learning this trade.
- Registering a company in Slovakia’s Companies Register (the general business license is issued within 3 days).
- Obtaining an apprenticeship certificate or any other applicable certification attesting to one’s proficiency in food preparation.
- Alternatively, for people who have not taken particular courses, proof can be provided by two years of experience.
- The Ministry of Education, Science, Research, and Sport will accept the credentials of foreign businesspeople in the food sector.
- Get permission from the regional public health authority before using the location for food preparation.
The following activities are permitted under the special license for restaurants:
making both hot and cold food.
- Provide food service.
- Preparing and serving a variety of beverages (non-alcoholic beverages).
- Manufacturing of canned food on a large scale.
- Making and distributing fast food.
- Preparing and selling food and drink to lodging establishments (such as hotels).
- Production and distribution of beer as well as a variety of non-alcoholic beverages.
The Slovak company must pay a cost, but it can only be up to 20 euros, to get the commercial license.
