English
Gastronomy Trade License (Gastgewerbe)
GewO §94 Z.22
Verified: April 2026
Key Facts
- Type: Regulated trade (reglementiertes Gewerbe)
- Qualification: Qualification exam (Befähigungsprüfung) — 2 modules
- Registration cost: Free (€0)
- Exam fees: Covered by the government since July 2023
- Start immediately: Yes, upon complete registration
- Legal basis: GewO §94 Z.22
What You Need
- Qualification proof (Befähigungsnachweis) — via exam, hospitality school diploma, or individual assessment
- ID document (passport or EU ID card)
- Criminal record check (if <5 years in Austria)
- Operating permit (Betriebsanlagengenehmigung) — usually required for restaurants
Qualification Alternatives
| Path | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam | Qualification exam (2 modules). Fees covered by government since 2023. |
| Education | Hospitality school diploma (Gastgewerbefachschule, Hotelfachschule) |
| Individual assessment | Prove your skills through work experience (§19 GewO) |
| Qualified manager | Appoint someone with the qualification as your trade manager (gewerberechtlicher GF) |
Important German Terms
| German | English |
|---|---|
| Gastgewerbe | Gastronomy/Hospitality trade |
| Befähigungsprüfung | Qualification exam |
| Betriebsanlagengenehmigung | Operating facility permit |
| HACCP-Konzept | Food safety management plan |
Vollständige deutsche Version →
Related Guides
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only. The legally binding version is the
German text of the Gewerbeordnung 1994.