Starting a Business in Ireland

Sole trader

Simplest option. You and the business are the same in law, so you are personally liable for debts. Register for Income Tax with Revenue.

Limited company (LTD)

A separate legal entity that limits personal liability. Must be registered with the Companies Registration Office (CRO) and file annual returns.

Partnership

Two or more people sharing ownership. Each partner pays tax on their share of profits.

Business name

If you trade under a name that isn't your own, register it as a business name with the CRO.

Company registration

File online through CRO's CORE system. You need a company name, registered office in Ireland, at least one director and a company secretary.

EEA-resident director

A company needs at least one EEA-resident director, or a non-resident bond, or proof of a real economic link to Ireland.

Beneficial owners

After forming a company, register its beneficial owners on the RBO register within 5 months.

Business bank account

Open a separate business account — banks will ask for your CRO certificate and ID.

Revenue Online Service (ROS)

Register for Income Tax (sole trader) or Corporation Tax (company) and get your ROS access.

VAT

Register once your turnover goes over the VAT threshold (€42,500 for services, €85,000 for goods). You can register voluntarily below it.

Employer PAYE

If you hire staff, register as an employer before the first payday and report pay through PAYE Modernisation.

Preliminary tax

Self-employed people pay tax in advance each year — keep records and set money aside.

Local Enterprise Offices (LEO)

Free mentoring, 'Start Your Own Business' courses and grants for small businesses in every county.

Enterprise Ireland

Support and investment for high-potential start-ups that plan to export and grow.

Microfinance Ireland

Small loans for start-ups that can't get bank credit.

Start-up tax reliefs

New companies may get relief from corporation tax in their first years, and investors may use EIIS relief.

Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) — main route

For innovative start-ups that can grow and sell internationally. Needs €50,000 funding (€30,000 per extra founder) and a €350 fee. Not for retail, catering or personal services. Gives 2 years' residence at first.

Business Permission (Stamp 1) — limited

Still in the rules, but Irish Immigration no longer has an application page for it. Contact Immigration Service Delivery before relying on it.

Already living here?

Stamp 4, Stamp 5 and EU/EEA, UK or Swiss citizens can run a business with no extra permission. Most other stamps (1, 1G, 2, 3) can't.