Ireland punches well above its weight as a business destination. With a population of just 5.1 million, it hosts European headquarters for Apple, Google, Meta, and hundreds of fast-growing startups. But you don't need to be a tech giant to thrive here.
Step 1 — Choose your business structure
The three most common structures:
Sole Trader: The simplest option. No registration fee, no minimum capital. You trade under your own name (or register a business name for €40). Downside: unlimited personal liability.
Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD): The standard choice for most businesses. Minimum one director (must be an EEA resident or post a bond), one shareholder, one secretary. No minimum share capital.
Designated Activity Company (DAC): Similar to LTD but with a defined objects clause. Required for certain regulated activities (financial services, charities).
Step 2 — Register with the CRO
The Companies Registration Office (CRO) handles all company formations. Online registration through CORE costs:
- LTD: €50
- Business name: €40
- Express service (same-day): +€100
You'll need: company name, registered address, director details, constitution (or adopt the model form).
Step 3 — Get your tax affairs in order
Register with Revenue for:
- Corporation Tax (CT1): 12.5% on trading profits
- VAT: mandatory when turnover exceeds €80,000 (goods) or €40,000 (services)
- PAYE/PRSI: if you hire employees
- RCT: if you're in construction
The Revenue Online Service (ROS) handles all filings. Registration is free and mandatory.
Step 4 — Explore available grants
Ireland has a strong support ecosystem:
Local Enterprise Office (LEO):
- Feasibility Study Grant: up to €15,000
- Priming Grant: up to €150,000 for startups in the first 18 months
- Business Expansion Grant: up to €150,000 for established businesses
- Mentoring: free one-to-one mentoring from experienced business people
Enterprise Ireland (for scalable/export businesses):
- Competitive Start Fund: €50,000 equity investment
- High Potential Start-Up (HPSU) funding: €50,000–€500,000
- Innovation Vouchers: €5,000 for collaboration with research institutions
Other supports:
- Microfinance Ireland: loans from €2,000 to €25,000
- SBCI (Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland): low-cost loans
- Employment Investment Incentive (EIIS): tax relief for investors in qualifying companies
Step 5 — Set up your operations
Practical essentials:
- Business bank account: Bank of Ireland, AIB, and Revolut Business are popular options. Expect 2-4 weeks for account opening with traditional banks.
- Accounting software: Xero, Sage, or Surf Accounts (Irish-made) are common choices.
- Insurance: Public liability, professional indemnity, and employer's liability (if hiring) are standard.
- GDPR compliance: Appoint a data protection lead and maintain a Record of Processing Activities.
Step 6 — Understand employment costs
If you plan to hire:
- Minimum wage: €13.50/hour (2026)
- Employer's PRSI: 11.05% of gross pay
- Annual leave: minimum 20 days
- Public holidays: 10 per year
- Statutory sick leave: 5 days per year (since 2024)
Key advantages of Ireland
- English-speaking EU member state
- Young, highly educated workforce (56% of 25-34 year-olds have tertiary education)
- Common law system familiar to UK and US businesses
- Strong IP regime (Knowledge Development Box: 6.25% rate)
- Gateway to the EU Single Market (450+ million consumers)
Plan your business: create a Business Plan with BoostPro IA, available in English.
Sources: Companies Registration Office, Revenue.ie, Enterprise Ireland, Local Enterprise Offices 2025-2026.