What does a takeover mean for your permits?
An exploitatievergunning is issued in the name of the exploitant and of the premises. When ownership changes hands, the old permit lapses and the new entrepreneur has to apply for a permit of their own — including a new Bibob-toets (integrity screening).
It is sensible to set the permit application in motion before the takeover actually goes through, so that you can stay open without interruption.
When does this apply?
With every takeover of an existing hospitality business: whether you are taking over a café, a restaurant or a snack bar. A new application may also be needed when a partner joins or leaves the business.
During the intake we assess exactly which permits have to be applied for again, and we plan the process around your takeover date.
Which documents do you need?
- Purchase or transfer agreement for the business
- Chamber of Commerce (KvK) extract for the new company
- Bibob questionnaire with supporting evidence
- Lease agreement or proof of ownership of the premises
- IDs of the new managers
Wij vertellen u tijdens de gratis intake precies welke stukken in uw situatie nodig zijn.
How the process works
- 1
Free intake
We establish which permits have to be applied for again for your takeover.
- 2
Gathering documents
We collect the paperwork for the new applications.
- 3
Submitting the applications
We file the exploitatievergunning and alcoholvergunning in good time.
- 4
Bibob & decision
We guide you through the Bibob screening until the permit is in place.
What does a business takeover cost?
For the complete takeover process on the permit side we charge a fixed service fee.
The gemeente (municipality) charges its own leges (municipal fees) per application. These costs are separate from our service fee.
What the gemeente charges on top
| What the gemeente charges for | Amount | Tariff year | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| New operating permit in the new operator’s name — without a terraceExisting permits do not transfer; with a terrace the fee is € 3,621.50. | €3,010.80 | 2026 | Gemeente Amsterdam |
| New alcohol licence in the new operator’s name | €1,882.10 | 2026 | Gemeente Amsterdam |
| Only the partnership form changes (VOF, CV or maatschap) and at least one person stays onNew tariff from 1 January 2026, per permit. Previously this situation cost the full permit fee. | €570.30 | 2026 | Gemeente Amsterdam |
These are the gemeente's own fees, separate from our service fee, and are payable to Gemeente Amsterdam. Leges are revised on 1 January each year. Last checked by us on 26 July 2026 — always verify the current amount with the gemeente before you budget.
Frequently asked questions
- Can I take over the previous owner's permit?
- No. An exploitatievergunning is tied to the person it is issued to and lapses when ownership changes hands. As the new exploitant you apply for a permit of your own.
- Do I have to go through the Bibob screening again?
- Yes — as the new exploitant you go through a Bibob screening of your own. We guide you through it so that it runs smoothly.
Related permits
Let us arrange your business takeover
A fixed price, no surprises. We handle the whole application so you can focus on your business.
Request a free intake