Hi there,
I am just curious as to what countries are easier than others when it comes to starting a hostel in Europe? I know that Greece is incredibly difficult, and heard that Spain and Italy are pretty bad as well.
Any where else know to be quite difficult?
Any ideas on where the regulations are a bit easier?
Thanks x
12 years
You might have an easier time starting something in Eastern Europe, although there are regulations to contend with there too. Since there are likely to be challenges everywhere, where would you like to open your hostel? Ski area? Beach? City? Countryside? What languages do you already speak? That might help you choose a location.
12 years
Hi californiakait,
why do you think it´s difficult to open a hostel in those countries mentioned?
Sure there might be obstacles, but the good aspect is that it´s EU (which means regulations, of course, for your benefit and against).
Cheers
Mochilero
11 years
I am hoping to eventually start a hostel somewhere near the sea with a close friend in England. I would be in charge of the hostel and she would be in charge of the included bar. We both speak some spanish, and I am in the process of learning Italian right now.
The reason I asked this questions is that I have heard quite a bit around this forum that these countries in particular have more obstacles then others, and I am sure we will already be facing enough as it is not being primary citizens of said places.
11 years
Greece is particularly difficult because the law says you can officially only open a non-profit hostel.
See Changing the rules and regulations for opening hostels.
There is a little more discussion about Greece and Italy in the thread Greek Hostels / Hostel Owners
Despite the legislation, there ARE hostels in Greece though. Obviously there is a way, so don't let the bureaucracy dissuade you from opening. It's not so much a question of where you can open a hostel, but rather HOW you can open a hostel where you want to.
There are no European standard requirements for starting a hostel, so each country has its own rules. There’s no reason to think that Spain or Italy couldn’t work for you if that’s where you would like to be. Being a foreigner might make things more difficult, but the country may actually welcome you as an investor and business owner because you create jobs, facilitate tourism, and contribute to the local economy. Contact the Chamber of Commerce to see if there are any specific laws that prevent a foreigner from opening a business. Talk to the Immigration office too to find out how you can go about getting a visa as a business owner.
If the requirements for getting a hostel license are prohibitive, (or nonexistent) maybe you could open with another type of license? In the thread Irritating laws!!! Is there a way around? it is suggested to find an accommodation classification (ex. B&B, Guesthouse, Rooms for Rent, hotel) whose criteria best fit your needs and register your hostel under that classification (even if it’s not called a hostel). It is also suggested to talk to several people in the Planning Office, Tourism Office, City Council, etc. to make contacts and get answers to your questions.
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