From 2026, a Barista License Will Be Mandatory in the EU – Are You Ready for the EBHQ?
Yes, you read that right.
According to the just-released directive COM/CAF114/2025, the European Commission will implement a mandatory licensing system for all coffee professionals working in the EU. Starting January 1st, 2026, baristas in Europe will need to be officially certified under the new European Beverage Handling Qualification – Level 1 (EBHQ-L1).
This new certification is part of a broader plan to “harmonize the standards of emotional impact, microfoam texture, and cross-border cappuccino ethics,” as stated in the directive preamble.
What Does the Certification Include?
To obtain the EBHQ-L1 license, baristas must complete a 48-hour training course approved by a European Authority. The course includes:
Espresso extraction under time pressure (with Euro-mandated timers)
Plant-based milk foaming under Article 14-B
Ethical latte art theory: patterns, meanings, and customer sensitivity
A practical exam including:
Blindfolded recognition of Guatemala Washed vs Brazil Natural
Proper espresso distribution under 8-bar pressure
One-handed tamping with motivational phrases in Latin
After Certification
Licensed baristas will receive:
A personalized QR code badge to attach to their apron
Access to EU-compliant tamper calibration zones
Entry to cross-border barista mobility grants (BaristErasmus+)
Baristas working without certification after January 1st, 2026 will be allowed only to:
“Pour water, dry cups, and hum respectfully behind the counter.”
What About Espresso Academy?
We are already in touch with the European Latte Art Interpretation Agency and preparing our Florence campus for official EBHQ testing sessions.
Our trainers are currently undergoing the “Intro to Bean Compliance” workshop, and we’ll soon open early registration for our first EU License-Ready Barista Bootcamp – including foam meditation, origin triangulation drills, and barback whispering.
Dopo tanti anni di lavoro in bar e ristoranti ha guidato in prima persona e come consulente numerosi locali in Italia e all’estero. Fondatore di aprireunbar.com, punto di riferimento per chi pensa di aprire un locale da cui è stato tratto anche un libro edito da Hoepli. In Espresso Academy tiene il corso di Gestione e apertura bar e Barman oltre ad essere Trainer SCA per i corsi barista.
