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Setting up a Company in Ireland - Top FAQs and Key Steps

Here is a list of frequently asked questions for setting up a limited company in Ireland. If you are ready to proceed with new Irish company setup, you can contact our team.

Written by David Bruton| Last Updated - 03/12/2024

Graphic image of a company building - Limited Company in Ireland

HOW DO I SET UP A COMPANY IN IRELAND?

Are you considering setting up a company in Ireland? Understanding the Irish business environment is a crucial first step. While the process might seem complex at first glance, with the right guidance and planning, it can be straightforward, saving you both time and money.

Starting a business in Ireland is an exciting milestone. Whether you’re launching a startup, transitioning from a sole trader, or expanding your operations, forming a limited company not only provides access to a thriving economy but also unlocks numerous tax advantages for your Irish company. By adhering to the legal requirements, you can position your business for long-term success.

Why Choose Ireland for Your Business?

  • Tax Benefits: Ireland offers attractive corporate tax rates and incentives tailored to businesses.

  • Thriving Economy: Leverage Ireland’s dynamic and globally connected economy.

  • Business-Friendly Environment: Benefit from a supportive regulatory framework.

What Does the Process Involve?

Setting up a limited company in Ireland involves several key stages, from selecting the right business structure to completing registration with the relevant authorities. With our expert team guiding you through every step, the process becomes simple and efficient.

Here’s What You’ll Need to Register Your Company in Ireland:

1. Choose Your Company Structure:

Decide on the company type you want to form, such as a private company limited by shares (LTD), a public limited company (PLC), or a partnership.

2. Choose A Company Name:

You can select a unique name for your company and verify its availability with the Companies Registration Office (CRO) company name search facility.

3. Set the Registered Address For Your New Limited Company:

Please ensure you have an official address in Ireland to receive documents related to your company. Nathan Trust can provide an official registered address in Cork or Dublin.

4. Identify and Appoint Directors and Shareholders:

Identify who will serve as the directors and shareholders of the company. You will need at least one director and one shareholder. If you don’t have an Irish resident director, you can apply for a Non-EEA Directors bond.

5. Appoint A Company Secretary:

Appoint a company secretary responsible for upholding compliance with company law. 

6. Memorandum and Articles of Association:

Prepare and register the company's memorandum and articles of association with the CRO.

7. Tax Registration:

Register your company for tax purposes with the Revenue Commissioners.

8. Employer Registration:

If you intend to hire employees, register as an employer with Revenue.

9. Bank Account:

Open a corporate or business bank account for your company. At Nathan Trust, we have helped hundreds of companies open business accounts through our leading bank partners in Ireland.

10. Licenses and Permits:

Depending on your business activities, you may need to secure licenses or permits from relevant authorities. We help our clients file the appropriate licenses too.

Our team can help you with your tax and accounting needs, reach out to our team to discuss the process after your company is registered. 

Our experienced team is here to provide end-to-end support, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free registration experience. From handling the paperwork to navigating compliance requirements, we help you get your business off to the best possible start in Ireland. Click below to register your company today.

Start Planning Your Company

 

Here at Nathan Trust, we specialise in providing comprehensive cost-effective advice and trusted solutions on all aspects of Company Law, Accounting, Tax, Company Secretarial Practice, and Corporate Governance, which allows you to plan, scale, and register your business in Ireland.

The FAQs on this page will provide you with an overview of some essential things you need to know when registering a company in Ireland as a foreigner.

Below is a short video of members at Nathan Trust discussing some of the top Irish company registration questions and other important requirements of setting up a company in Ireland from abroad.

 

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO SET UP A LIMITED COMPANY IN IRELAND?

The price varies depending on the services you require. When setting up a limited company in Ireland, we always try to provide a competitive quote tailored to your individual needs. See below for our 2 most popular company set-up packages.

1. Standard Company Set-Up Package

2. Full Service Company Set Up Package - (Including Bank & Tax Filing)

 

What is included in the standard company setup package?

  • Company Incorporation 

  • Registered Office address in Ireland

  • Annual Return

  • Company Secretary

  • UBO Register & AML

This is everything you need to kickstart your business in Ireland. 

Standard Company Package Cost - €2795

 

What is included in the bank and tax company setup package?

  • Company Incorporation

  • Registered Office address in Ireland

  • Annual Return

  • Company Secretary

  • UBO Register & AML

  • Bank Account setup & AML

  • Corporation Tax Registration

  • VAT Registration

This company setup package includes everything you need to start your business in Ireland, including your business bank account, Irish Corporation tax and VAT registrations. 

Full Service Company Package Cost - €5680

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO SET UP A LIMITED COMPANY IN IRELAND?

The Limited company setup process usually takes between 10-14 days, once anti-money laundering (AML) checks have been completed and signed documents are received. 

For AML we require the following:

  • 1 * certified copy of Passport.
  • 1 * certified copy of utility bills. These need to be dated within the last 3 months.
  • If the shareholder is a company, we will need to see the Cert of Incorporation. We need to identify the Ultimate Beneficial Owner.

Additionally, you will need a Personal Public Service (PPS) number to incorporate a company in Ireland. If you don’t have a PPS number, our team can assist you in applying for one.

It's essential to plan your new Irish Limited Company setup journey right from the very beginning. Save time and money by getting the help of company experts like Nathan Trust. 

Start Planning Your Company

DO I NEED TO VISIT IRELAND TO SET UP A LIMITED COMPANY?

No, your physical presence is not required in Ireland in order to incorporate a company. Signed application and identity documents can be sent by post in advance of your limited company setup. However, we always like to invite our clients to Dublin or Cork to meet us where possible.

DO DIRECTORS NEED TO BE RESIDENT TO REGISTER A COMPANY IN IRELAND?

No, limited company directors do not need to be residents of Ireland. However, there is a requirement for at least one of the company directors to be an EEA (European Economic Area) resident. The nationality of a potential director will not influence this requirement, it is based on residency. For instance, an Irish national (Company Director) living in the United States cannot be the sole Director of the Irish company. Whilst, it is not a legal requirement, it is advisable to have an Irish-based Director on the board of your company for tax residency purposes.

If you are one of the companies with no EEA or resident Directors, we can provide you with a Section 137 non-EEA Directors bond or you can also avail of a Nominee Director service for Irish company registration. Our nominee directors are highly regarded in the company secretarial & compliance area by Ireland’s accounting and legal professionals. 

WHAT TAX RATE WILL APPLY WHEN SETTING UP AN IRISH LIMITED COMPANY?

The corporate tax rate for a limited company in Ireland is currently 12.5%, among the lowest in Europe. The low corporation tax rate has been one of the primary reasons why companies globally are interested in Ireland. As Directors and business owners, it is very important to know the tax rates before proceeding with any decision related to your Irish company. It is a good opportunity for businesses to save a lot of money on their tax bills as well as ensure they get the most out of their year-end revenue. 

You might be able to avail of the 3-year Tax exemption for Startup limited companies in Ireland.

A study by PWC - "Paying Taxes 2020" - ranked Ireland in first place for the ease of paying taxes. Ireland has double tax treaties (DTA) with 78 countries, 74 are in effect as seen on the Revenue website

HERE’S WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS ARE SAYING ABOUT US!

Yuriy Andamasov, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer at VyOS Inc  Vyos

Yuriy Andamasov, Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer at VyOS Inc.

We have worked with NathanTrust for more than two years (and don't plan to stop), and I can recommend Philip and his team to everyone who plans to do business in Ireland.

They are an exceptional multi-disciplinary team of professionals!


And to be more precise, here are just a few of the things they helped us with:

  • company incorporation
  • tax compliance
  • legal compliance
  • immigration topics
  • real estate / rental matters

All the heavy lifting was done by NathanTrust, so for us at VyOS, it was almost effortless, and we could focus on other topics.

Our customers have rated our services 5/5 stars based on 35 reviews on Google reviews. 

DOES AN IRISH COMPANY NEED A COMPANY BANK ACCOUNT IN IRELAND?

While not mandatory, having an Irish bank account is highly recommended for Irish companies when dealing with local authorities and streamlining business operations.

CAN A NON-RESIDENT START A BUSINESS IN IRELAND?

Yes, a non-resident can start a company or business in Ireland. A lot of Irish companies have Directors who are not Irish residents. If the company does not have an EEA resident Director, then it needs a Non-EEA Directors Bond to be in place before the company can be set up. Please note that setting up a company in Ireland does not entitle you to Irish residency. 

CAN I OPEN AN IRISH LIMITED COMPANY BANK ACCOUNT IN IRELAND AS A NON-RESIDENT?

A non-resident director or shareholder can set up a business bank account in Ireland for an Irish limited company. We work with 2 digital banks, Revolut and Fire. Both banks have the same guarantees as traditional banks about the protection of funds. They have excellent online banking facilities and the accounts can be opened in 1-2 weeks.

We also work with the 2 traditional banks in Ireland - AIB and Bank of Ireland. In our experience, these are the only 2 banks in Ireland that are set up to work with international companies just setting up in Ireland. 

It is vital that you approach and engage with the banks in the right way, from day 1. We have successfully opened hundreds of Business Bank Accounts in Ireland for our clients globally. 

HOW HARD IS IT TO GET VAT REGISTERED IN IRELAND?

Getting VAT registered for your company if you are a non-resident director and shareholder in Ireland is difficult.

You will need to show the following:

  • A mix of customers and suppliers based in Ireland
  • 1-page business plan
  • Irish phone number (you can get this via Skype)
  • .ie web domain
  • Possibly a short-term rental contract in a shared office space like this 
    https://www.republicofwork.com

This 2-minute 29-second video below explains in detail the VAT registration process in Ireland for a limited company.

 

WHAT IDENTITY DOCUMENTS WILL I NEED WHEN SETTING UP A COMPANY IN IRELAND?

Before a company registration can be completed with Nathan Trust, you will need to furnish us with proof of identity (preferably passport) and a document showing proof of address (e.g. bank statements, utility bills, tax documents) for the directors and shareholders of the new company in Ireland. This is all part of the AMLD5 Directive from the EU. 

ACCESS TO TALENT IN IRELAND

Ireland has the youngest population in the European Union with 33%  of the population under the age of 25. Conversely, the share of the population 65 or older is the lowest in the EU. [Source: Central Statistics Office (CSO), Ireland]

The population is highly educated with 3rd level attainment among ages 30-44 of 55.4% vs the EU average of 40.3%. [Source: Central Statistics Office (CSO), Ireland]

There are over 400,000 international workers in the labour force as of Q2 2020 which is the 4th highest in the EU. This makes up 17% of the workforce. The majority of these foreign workers are highly educated and are working in the technology industry. [Source: Ireland and the EU at 50, CSO report, Ireland]

British citizens can continue to travel, work and study in Ireland post-Brexit. The common travel agreement guarantees this and this is why a lot of people are moving to Ireland from the UK

HOW COMPETITIVE IS THE IRISH ECONOMY?

Ireland consistently ranks as one of the top countries in the world to do business in and consistently attracts a large level of foreign direct investment. 

The Institute for Management Development (IMD)’s World Competitiveness Yearbook 2024 1 ranks Ireland as the most competitive country in the euro area and the 4th most competitive economy in the world (out of 67 economies).
(Source: National Competitiveness and Productivity Council Bulletin 24-4 IMD World Competitiveness Rankings)

With a workweek that typically does not exceed 40 hours per employee, Ireland has a high presence of multinational corporations that significantly enhance its labour productivity. Ireland ranks as the 2nd most productive country in the world as per the rankings here. Consequently, its GDP per capita has grown rapidly compared to other Western European nations.

Ireland witnessed an increase in average hourly labour costs, rising from €38 in 2022 to €40.2 in 2023.

 

NATHAN TRUST - FULL RANGE OF SERVICES

Our complete service offering combines a highly skilled and experienced team of Corporate Secretaries, Accounts and International Tax Specialists. We provide an 'end-to-end solution that supports all your Irish company compliance needs. From company setup to specialist tax advice to running your company payroll. We have it all covered. You can download our latest brochures detailing our services below:

Download Full Company Secretarial Services (PDF)

Download Full Accounting & Tax Services (PDF)

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO COMPLETE A LIMITED COMPANY REGISTRATION IN IRELAND?

Below is a short video of Philip Nathan at Nathan Trust explaining how long it takes to complete the registration of a limited company in Ireland.

 

Limited company registration can normally be completed in 5-7 working days, from the date of receiving signed application documents.

We're here to answer all of your questions and help you find the perfect plan for your Company.

Speak To Company Experts

DO I NEED TO HOLD MEETINGS (AGMS) IN IRELAND?

LTD companies may dispense with the requirement to hold an AGM provided members sign a written resolution dispensing with the AGM. If this option is not taken then a company should hold an AGM each year, with not more than 15 months elapsing between AGMs. Here are a few tips on how to conduct a successful AGM and the top tips to arrange a successful AGM.

WHAT ANNUAL PAPERWORK NEEDS TO BE FILED FOR MY COMPANY?

All companies must file an annual return with the Companies Office at least once every calendar year. With the exception of the Company’s first Annual Return, Companies must attach a copy of their accounts to the annual return filed with the Companies Registration Office (CRO). The accounts attached to an annual return must be made up to a date that is not more than 9 months earlier than the effective date of the return. Nathan Trust can take care of annual returns for your Irish company.

CAN YOU HAVE A SINGLE DIRECTOR COMPANY IN IRELAND?

Currently, an Irish company registration requires just one director. However, a single director can't act as the Company Secretary. A separate person must act as Company Secretary. This is a service that we provide. 

WHAT IS A COMPANY SECRETARY?

The Companies Act 2014 stipulates that every company must have a company secretary. As for their duties, the act states:

“The duties of the secretary of a company shall, without derogating from the secretary’s statutory and other legal duties, be such duties as are delegated to the secretary, from time to time, by the board of directors of the Company”.

These duties entail:

  • Co-signing the annual return with one of the director(s) of the company.
  • Maintaining the statutory registers of the company.
  • Maintaining up to date minute books of meetings of the Board and the AGM.
  • Ensure that all filings are made in the  Companies Registration Office (CRO).

The company secretary does not have voting rights at board meetings and cannot make any board-level decisions unless the company secretary is also a director.

CAN ANYONE ACT AS A COMPANY SECRETARY?

Technically, yes, once they are 18 or over. There are no official educational requirements needed to act as Company Secretary, however, it is important to note that Irish company directors have a duty to ensure that the Company Secretary has the skills and resources necessary to discharge his or her duties. It is common for company directors to employ the services of a professional company secretarial firm. Nathan Trust offers the service of a professional nominee Company Secretary if you are interested. 

CAN ANYONE SET UP A COMPANY IN IRELAND?

There are certain requirements for setting up a company in ireland. You must be at least 18 years old to serve as a director. Opening a company in Ireland is straightforward. Whether you are a resident or non-resident Director, you can register an Irish company with minimal barriers.

HOW MUCH IS COMPANY INCOME TAX IN IRELAND?

Company tax, otherwise known as corporation tax, is 12.5% in Ireland. This is one of the lowest corporation tax rate in the EU.

CAN ONE PERSON OPEN A LIMITED COMPANY IN IRELAND?

It is possible for one person to set up a limited company. When one person sets up a limited company in Ireland on their own, they will need someone else to act as the Company Secretary. You cannot act as both a single director and Company Secretary. Nathan Trust can provide a one-person, single-director company with a Company Secretary. 

HOW DO I PAY MYSELF FROM A LIMITED COMPANY IRELAND?

There are two main ways that you can pay yourself from an Irish company. You can take a salary from the company, or you can take dividends. 

SETTING UP A COMPANY IN IRELAND AS A FOREIGNER

For those residing outside the EEA and non-residents, there are two options. Either you can purchase a non-EEA Director bond, which ensures the company is against fines for any offences under the Companies Act, this bond would need to be renewed every 2 years. The other option would be for the Irish company to appoint a non-executive or “nominee” director to the board to satisfy the residency requirement.

Connecting with an expert can help you get started on the right foot! Let's schedule a discovery call and find out how we can provide what your company needs.

Book a free appointment with an expert

DO I NEED AN ADDRESS IN IRELAND?

Yes, all companies registered in Ireland must register with an Irish address, P.O box addresses are not permitted. This registered address does not need to be your trading address. Nathan Trust can provide your new Irish company with a registered address in Dublin or Cork.

WHAT SERVICES DOES NATHAN TRUST PROVIDE TO COMPANIES?

At Nathan Trust, we provide a complete solution for company formation and corporate compliance, tailored to meet your specific business needs in Ireland. Our team of skilled Corporate Secretaries, Accountants, and International Tax Specialists is here to support you at every step of the company setup process. From registering a limited company to opening an Irish bank account and ensuring full tax compliance, we deliver an end-to-end service backed by over 25 years of industry expertise.

Our services extend from providing specialist tax advice and managing payroll services to fulfilling all your Irish company compliance requirements. Whether you’re looking to register a new Irish company or expand an existing one, Nathan Trust ensures a seamless experience.

Download our latest brochures below to explore how we can support your business journey in Ireland.

Download Full Company Secretarial Services (PDF)

Download Full Accounting & Tax Services (PDF)

 

Customer Testimonials

As a family business, we pride ourselves on going ‘above and beyond’ for our clients. Don't take our word it, here is what our customers say:

  • Jaclyn_Strul_Globee-3
    Jaclyn Strul
    CFO, Globee
    globee_logo

    I am very happy to recommend Nathan Trust, they have been extremely helpful and efficient.

    "I am very happy to recommend Nathan Trust, they have been extremely helpful and efficient. Especially considering all the current limitations and challenges to doing international business as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. Nathan Trust said they could adapt and get our Irish business and bank account setup without needing to visit Ireland, and they delivered. I look forward to partnering with Nathan Trust on growing our business in Ireland."
  • andrew_price_swan_wool-2
    Andrew Price
    DIrector, Swan Wool Ireland
    Swan_wool_logo

    We found Nathan Trust to be very helpful and professional throughout the whole process of setting up in Ireland.

    “We found Nathan Trust to be very helpful and professional throughout the whole process of setting up in Ireland. We are glad that we chose them, and we are happy to recommend them to anyone thinking of setting up in Ireland. I’d like to thank Rory, Laura, and Clodagh for the very professional and efficient service they have given Swan Wool in incorporating Swan Wool Ireland. Looking forward to working with you guys in the years to come."
  • PETER_VON_SCHMIDT_-_CLIENT_DIRECTOR_at_SCOPE_AT-2
    Peter Von Schmidt
    Client Director at Scope AT
    cropped-SAT-green-w200-1

    Philip and the team were always very responsive and were always available to answer any questions we had.

    "Nathan Trust did a great job at helping us register our Irish Branch for VAT in Ireland. Philip and the team were always very responsive and were always available to answer any questions we had. Very happy to recommend Nathan Trust to any UK recruitment agency set up in Ireland."
  • Daniel Garcia
    Daniel Garcia
    President at SEI Electric
    sei_logo

    We strongly recommend Nathan Trust to anyone or any company planning to work in Ireland

    "Philip's professionalism, dedication and deep knowledge made for a great end to end experience. Nathan Trust followed throughout the whole process guiding and supporting our company through rather complex issues which exceeded both our expectations, deadlines and budget. We have operations in the US, Latin America, Netherlands and China and by far Nathan Trust has been the best experience. We strongly recommend Nathan Trust to anyone or any company planning to work in Ireland."
  • DANIEL_COTTI_Tradeix
    Daniel Cotti
    CFO at TradeIX
    Tradeix_logo

    Nathan Trust has been with Tradeix from the very start, literally!

    "Nathan Trust have been with Tradeix from the very start, literally! They have been invaluable in helping us set up and grow in Ireland. Philip and his team continue to show dedication, creativity and flexibility. No matter what a fast-growing Fintech startup-like Tradiex has thrown at them - Nathan Trust has come up with a solution. I cannot recommend them highly enough."
  • MARK_MASON_Affirma_Consulting-2
    Mark Mason
    Founder/Principal at Affirma Consulting
    Affirma

    Nathan Trust helped set up the company, open bank accounts, register with the IDA. It was an end to end service.

    "Nathan Trust helped set up the company, open bank accounts, register with the IDA. It was an end to end service. The whole Nathan Trust team have been super accessible even though we are based in Seattle. Choosing Ireland has proved to be a great choice for Affirma and Nathan Trust continues to be a big part of this."
  • CHRISTOPHER_GHAZARIAN_DreamHost-1
    Christopher Ghazarian
    General Counsel, DreamHost
    DreamHost

    I highly recommend Mark and the Nathan Trust team for any US and international tech companies looking to expand into Ireland.

    "Mark and his team have made setting up a company in Ireland a real pleasure. The quality of their work, support and hospitality never ceases to impress me. Even though we are 8 hours behind, the guys at Nathan Trust are always super responsive and willing to help with any questions or issues. I highly recommend Mark and the Nathan Trust team for any US and international tech companies looking to expand into Ireland."
  • Phil-Allen
    Phill Allen
    Works at ALLpaQ Packaging Limited
    allpaq_packaging_limited_logo

    I would highly recommend Nathan Trust for any UK company looking to set up and grow a business in Ireland.

Our Partners

Author: David Bruton (Head of Tax & Accounting at Nathan Trust)

David Bruton is a graduate of Business from the Cork Institute of Technology. He is a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) and a Chartered Tax Advisor of the Irish Tax Institute. In addition to dealing with ongoing accounting and tax compliance for clients, David’s areas of expertise also include personal and corporate tax planning, VAT and the international aspects of the Irish tax system. David enjoys trying to take the mystery out of tax for clients.

David Bruton Linkedin profile Url

 

David Bruton