Decree-Law on the Zero Licensing

Decree-Law no. 48/2011 and Decree-Law nº10/2015. The Portuguese Zero Licensing programme is one of the most representative initiatives of the e-government agenda. Its main objective is to considerably simplify the licensing procedures necessary to carry out several economic activities by reducing red tape through an electronic point of single contact. One of the first objectives was achieved in April 2011, following the approval of Decree-Law no. 48/2011, which saw a significant reduction in the required licences. It was further strengthened with the approval of Decree-Law nº10/2015, which ruled the entire practice regarding food and beverage establishments and also trade and services establishments.