Alcohol Licensing: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to obtain the legal right to sell alcohol at your business premises in the Netherlands.
This scheme provides businesses with the legal permission required to serve and sell alcoholic beverages on their premises. Without this authorization from the local municipality, a business cannot legally provide alcohol to its customers.
Who it's for
This scheme is designed specifically for businesses that serve alcohol. This includes various types of hospitality venues and establishments where alcoholic drinks are provided to the public. If your business model involves the sale or service of these beverages, you must secure this licensing to operate within the legal framework.
What you get
The primary benefit of this scheme is obtaining the legal right to sell alcohol. This permit acts as your official authorization to conduct business involving alcoholic drinks at your specific location. Having this license is a fundamental requirement for any hospitality business looking to operate legally under the current regulations.
What it costs you
While there are standard administrative processes involved, a significant requirement is the human element of compliance. You must ensure that a manager at the business holds a specific diploma known as the SVH-diploma. This certification ensures that your leadership has the necessary knowledge to manage the sale and service of alcohol responsibly.
The catch to know
The most important thing to understand is that the license is tied to the physical location of your business, not to the person running it. This means the permission to sell alcohol is granted to the premises themselves. If you move your business to a new building, you cannot simply take the license with you; you will need to address the licensing requirements for the new site.
How to apply
- Confirm that your business location is suitable for alcohol service.
- Ensure that a designated manager on-site holds the required SVH-diploma.
- Contact your local Gemeente to begin the formal application process.
- Follow the specific instructions provided by your local municipality to complete your submission.