In short, any business exceeding Irish VAT thresholds—or engaging in certain taxable activities—must register, apply the correct VAT rates, and meet ongoing filing and reporting requirements, while also taking advantage of available input VAT reclaims where applicable. This guide sets out the key rules, thresholds, rates, and practical steps involved, providing a clear roadmap for businesses operating in or entering the Irish market.
According to statistics from 2022, there are more than 389,000 registered businesses throughout Ireland(1). The irony here is that some of the most successful organisations are still unfamiliar with their VAT obligations. The team at Nathan Trust intends to clear the air, and to provide owners with the information required to make informed decisions. Which firms must register for VAT in Ireland? What services can our professionals offer? Are there any specific obligations to highlight? These are some of the issues that will be discussed immediately below.
Our main intention is to expedite the processes associated with VAT registration for business owners. This is also why we offer a variety of targeted solutions based around the needs of the client in question. Not only will our professionals address basic concerns such as who is required to register for VAT in Ireland, but we leverage more than 20 years of industry experience to provide additional advice. Examples include (but are not necessarily limited to) the intricacies of corporate tax law, explaining how to register new company for VAT purposes, clarifying how much VAT a business may be able to reclaim, explaining the discrete VAT rates, and highlighting specific deadlines that must be met to avoid possible penalties. However, note that our services will always be moulded around the needs of your enterprise. This is why we encourage business owners to contact us if they would like to learn more.
The first step is arguably the most crucial. Any businesses that must register for VAT in Ireland must obtain a corresponding VAT number. This is crucial, as the number provides a host of important information such as confirming that the business is a registered trader, and guaranteeing that compliance issues will not come to light in the future. Our team will carry out all communications with Irish Revenue; ensuring that the process runs smoothly while addressing any questions that may arise.
Knowing how to register for Irish VAT (2) is only the beginning. The next metric is associated with determining which rates apply to your business. There are four separate tiers, and rates can range between 23 per cent (standard) to zero for certain sectors such as exports, disability equipment, and foodstuffs. This is likewise when we will address the VAT registration threshold Ireland businesses need to be aware of. This figure is based on the annual turnover, and limits will vary. Nathan Trust will analyse your current business model to create a concise picture of the possibilities.
The process of VAT registration does not end once the initial steps have been completed. We will also provide assistance when preparing VAT returns, and our team will make certain that these documents are filed well within the specified time frames. We may likewise establish staggered VAT payments to Irish Revenue when needed. Once again, this will be determined on a case-by case basis, and the exact approach that we choose to take depends on the needs of the client in question.
Christopher Ghazarian
General Counsel, DreamHost
"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."
Jaclyn Strul
CFO, Globee
“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."
Andrew Price
Director, Swan Wool Ireland
"Nathan Trust did a great job at helping us register our Irish Branch for VAT in Ireland. The team was always very responsive and available to answer any questions. Very happy to recommend Nathan Trust to any UK recruitment agency set up in Ireland."
Peter Von Schmidt
Client Director at Scope AT
"Nathan Trust's team 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 Garcia
President at SEI Electric
Daniel Cotti
CFO at TradeIX
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Mark Mason
Founder/Principal at Affirma Consulting
Nathan Trust appreciates that confidence is gained from results; one of the mantras that we have embraced since 1999. We likewise embrace the latest industry trends; one of the reasons why we have recently obtained Certified B status regarding sustainable business practices. However, there are several other reasons why Nathan Trust has gained a solid reputation throughout Ireland.
We feel that appreciating the nuances associated with Irish VAT should not represent a complicated process. Nathan Trust provides advice that can be understood by the average business owner, while avoiding many of the "smoke and mirrors" that might otherwise lead to confusion.
Another ancillary service that clients will often leverage in tandem with our VAT oversight involves the process of registering a company in Ireland. This is an excellent way to establish a strong corporate foundation, and to guarantee that nothing is left to the imagination.
Our team continually strives to discover the ways in which businesses can maximise their profit margins while remaining fully compliant with Irish tax law. From defining specific VAT thresholds to highlighting instances when this tax can be reclaimed, Nathan Trust is on your side.
It is important to mention that we provide a host of other options in addition to VAT registration. These include accounting, secretarial services, personal tax advice, and human resources solutions. Why look anywhere else when there are so many options at your disposal?
How can I register for Irish VAT?
How can I become a VAT registered business in Ireland?
What are the current VAT registration limits in Ireland?
What is the new company VAT registration process?
How can I register for Irish VAT?
The process is normally carried out with the help of the Revenue Online Service Of Ireland. Note that paper documentation will be required if the business is headquartered abroad
How can I become a VAT registered business in Ireland?
In order to qualify, you will need to obtain an official VAT number. This number is one of the most crucial steps for any new business that wishes to operate legally.
What are the current VAT registration limits in Ireland?
The Irish VAT registration threshold is separated into two tiers. Businesses earning more goods than 85,000 euros for selling goods must register. Similarly, firms offering services that generate over 42,500 euros must meet reporting requirements. We will always explain additional thresholds for VAT registration in Ireland upon request.
What is the new company VAT registration process?
To register new company for VAT, an application must first be submitted to the Revenue Commissioners. Companies will then need to provide information including (but not limited to) estimated annual turnover, the existing legal structure, and details associated with the directors (or partners)
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Nathan Trust is a private professional services firm regulated by the Chartered Accountants Ireland offering services in Ireland and the UK (CRO No. 173776, VAT Registration No. IE6334738V, UK Company No. NI728667) and is not affiliated with any government body. Clients may complete filings directly through official government channels if they choose. However, we provide professional support and guidance to help ensure full compliance when completing these processes.
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