Normally, no special business licences are required as long as an individual has obtained the necessary work and residence permits.
Registration of a business in the Commercial Register will automatically result in a general business licence (certificate) being issued. In some specific sectors including banking, insurance, transport, and employment services, a special licence is required.
For those starting a business selling alcohol or tobacco, or establishing a gaming business such as a casino, special licences are required before commencement of business – often evidence of previous experience (eg running a bar) is required. Other activities that require a licence include hotels, restaurants, physicians, dentists, pharmacists and attorneys. Where a business licence is required, this usually takes about a week to obtain.
This article is an extract from Personal Business Tax Guide , dated 4th January 2011, for the latest version please click here .