Ireland is one of the best places in Europe to start a business — low corporation tax, a skilled workforce, and strong government supports. Here's how to get set up legally and efficiently.
2 guides in this topic
The simplest way to start a business in Ireland — registering as a sole trader, your tax obligations, and what to do first.
5 min read
Every county in Ireland has a free Local Enterprise Office offering mentoring, training grants, and business advice. Here's what you can access.
4 min read
The two most common business structures in Ireland are sole trader and private limited company (Ltd).
Sole trader — the simplest structure. You register your business name (if different from your own name) with the CRO, register with Revenue as self-employed, and pay income tax, PRSI, and USC on your profits via self-assessment. You have unlimited personal liability — your personal assets can be at risk if the business has debts.
Private limited company (Ltd) — a separate legal entity. Profits are taxed at the corporate rate (12.5% on trading income). Directors pay income tax on salaries. Provides limited liability protection — your personal assets are generally protected. More administrative overhead (annual CRO returns, audited accounts above certain thresholds). Usually advisable once annual turnover exceeds ~€80,000 or if you want to limit personal liability.
Register through the CRO at cro.ie (€50 online fee). You'll need a company name, registered office address in Ireland, at least one director (who must be EEA-resident — or take out a non-EEA bond if no EEA director), and a company secretary. Once registered, apply to Revenue for corporation tax, employer PAYE, and VAT registration as required.
You must register for VAT if your annual turnover exceeds €37,500 (services) or €75,000 (goods). You can register voluntarily below these thresholds. Standard VAT rate in Ireland is 23%; reduced rates apply to certain goods and services. Register through Revenue's myAccount or ROS.
The simplest way to start a business in Ireland — registering as a sole trader, your tax obligations, and what to do first.
Every county in Ireland has a free Local Enterprise Office offering mentoring, training grants, and business advice. Here's what you can access.