Operating Licenses for Stores and Businesses
Operating licenses for stores and businesses are official documents that certify the lawful operation of a business or commercial establishment, in accordance with Greek legislation and regulations governing commercial and professional activities. Obtaining such licenses is mandatory for starting and legally operating any business activity and depends on the type of business and the nature of its operations.
Types of Licenses and Acquisition Process
Depending on the type and nature of the business, different licenses are required:
- Retail Store License:
- For Commercial Establishments: All stores such as retail shops, restaurants, cafes, food and beverage shops must obtain an operating license from the relevant Municipal Authority or Regional Government.
- For Health-Regulated Establishments: Businesses related to health (e.g. restaurants, cafes, supermarkets) must also obtain a certificate from the Health Authority, ensuring compliance with hygiene and safety standards.
- Industrial Facility License:
- For industrial or production units, the license is issued by the relevant urban planning or environmental authorities and includes inspections of the facilities, environmental impact, and employee safety measures.
- Service Business License:
- Businesses providing services (e.g. offices, hair salons, beauty institutes) must obtain an operating license from the local municipal or regional authority. In some cases, special approval may be required depending on the service provided (e.g. Ministry of Health approval for medical or pharmaceutical services).
- Food and Beverage Business License:
- All businesses involved in producing or distributing food and drinks (restaurants, cafés, bakeries etc.) must obtain a specific license from health authorities to certify that their facilities meet hygiene requirements.
- Special Business Licenses:
In some cases, additional licenses are required for specific types of establishments such as bars, nightclubs, casinos, gyms, or other businesses providing regulated services (e.g. music or alcohol permits).
6. Vehicle Service Facilities:
- Fuel and energy service stations:They provide fuels (gasoline, diesel), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), compressed natural gas (CNG), liquefied natural gas (LNG), and hydrogen (H₂).
- Electric vehicle charging stations:They provide electric power for charging electric vehicles.
- Vehicle repair and maintenance workshops:
They offer repair and maintenance services for engines, electrical systems, bodywork, painting, and more.
- Vehicle wash and lubrication stations:
They provide interior and exterior cleaning services, as well as lubrication services for both regular and heavy vehicles. These facilities are usually located within fuel and energy service stations or vehicle service centers.
- Motorway Service Areas (MSAs):They offer various services to drivers, including fuel, food, restrooms, and other amenities.
- Covered and open parking areas for cars and heavy-duty vehicles (Parking):They provide parking spaces for vehicles.
- Private Vehicle Technical Inspection Centers (IKTEO):They provide vehicle technical inspection services to ensure road safety.
- Facilities in ports, marinas, construction sites, quarries, mines, and mineral extraction sites:They provide specialized vehicle service solutions in various industrial environments.
