Setting up a Company in Ireland: A Complete Guide (2025)

Ireland is considered one of the ideal destinations to set up a company in Europe thanks to its preferential tax policies and friendly business environment. With its strategic location in the EU, Ireland not only attracts international investors but also opens up opportunities for businesses to expand into the European market.

The following article by GLA will provide detailed instructions on the steps and conditions required to establish a company in Ireland, from document preparation, registration process, to compliance regulations after establishment.

1. Conditions for opening a company in Ireland

Before deciding to open a company in Ireland, businesses need to clearly understand the legal conditions and basic requirements of this country. 

From choosing the type of business, charter capital, to director requirements, each factor has an impact on the registration process and future operations.

1.1. Shareholder requirements

Ireland does not require the owner to be a citizen or resident of Ireland, which makes it convenient for international investors. 

However, to successfully open a company in this country, business owners need to ensure that they provide complete information about the company's owners and operators, especially the ultimate owner who owns at least 25% of the company's shares (Ultimate Beneficial Owner (“UBO”)).

1.2. Director requirements

Setting up a company in Ireland requires that the business must have at least one director for the company and that this director must be a resident of Ireland or a country in the European Economic Area (EEA). If not, the company must provide a credit guarantee to meet this requirement (Non-EEAA Director Bond).

1.3. Charter capital requirements

Ireland does not require a minimum share capital when registering a company. However, certain industries may require certain capital and licenses to ensure the financial viability of the business.

1.4. Company name requirements 

When choosing a name for a company, businesses should choose unique names that are different from the company names registered with the Companies Registration Office (CRO).

To increase differentiation, businesses may consider incorporating the names of individuals within the company or specific operational job descriptions, such as Widget Production Limited.

Additionally, the company name should avoid containing trademark terms or descriptive terms that are government-related or prohibited.

1.5. Company address requirements in Ireland

The company office address must be a physical address in Ireland. This will be the official address for contact between the company owner and Irish government agencies. 

1.6. Ireland Company Secretary Requirements

Incorporating a company in Ireland requires a company secretary. This role, which can be performed by an individual or an organisation, is essential to oversee the management of the company as directed by the Directors. 

It is important to note that if your company has only one Director, the company secretary must be a different individual to comply with regulatory requirements.

2. Detailed and complete process of establishing a company in Ireland

To open a company in Ireland, businesses need to follow the registration steps as prescribed. This process includes choosing a company name, registering an address and completing paperwork with government agencies, ensuring that the business can operate legally.

The process of setting up a company in Ireland takes place in the following 5 steps:

3. Comply with regulations after company establishment

Once incorporated, businesses in Ireland must comply with a number of requirements relating to taxation, financial reporting and company record keeping. Compliance with these regulations is not only a legal obligation but also helps the company maintain stable and sustainable operations.

3.1. Maintain a shareholder's share register 

Maintaining compliance with the Register of Beneficial Ownership (RBO) is an important legal requirement. Company employees can submit ownership data online through the RBO portal or through the GLA.  

This data needs to be filed within five months of the company's incorporation date to avoid any breach of statutory obligations and potential legal penalties.

3.2. Submit annual financial reports

Every year, the company must submit an annual financial report including a final report and specific financial figures. GLA will support businesses to fully and accurately comply with Irish law with a complete package of accounting and tax services for Irish companies, at an optimal cost.

3.3. Maintain company records and books

Companies must keep records including minutes of meetings, shareholder information, financial statements and any changes to the Irish company structure to comply with regulatory requirements. Records should be kept for 5 years.

3.4. Comply with labor regulations (if any)

If the company has employees, it is necessary to register for a PAYE number and comply with the social security, wages and working conditions regulations as prescribed by Irish labour law.

4. How does GLA support businesses in setting up companies in Ireland?

Incorporating a company in Ireland can bring many business and financial benefits, especially in the technology and services sectors. However, the process and compliance requirements require careful preparation to ensure full compliance with Irish government regulations. 

Understanding the steps from registration to post-incorporation obligations will help your business get off to a solid start and grow sustainably in Ireland.

• Consulting and support for establishing Irish companies.
• Recommend the right company type based on your business model.
• Prepare necessary documents for Irish Enterprises.
• Tax advice appropriate to the type of business activities of the enterprise in Ireland.
• Support for registration of all types of business licenses in Ireland.
• Support opening physical bank accounts, digital banks for Irish companies, etc.
• Prepare financial statements and tax returns in accordance with Irish accounting standards.

5. Frequently asked questions about opening a company in Ireland

Highlights

• After establishment, the company needs to submit RBO documents, open a bank account, and register a tax code to ensure the company operates effectively.
• The limited liability company form in Ireland is the most popular choice.
• Irish companies require a company secretary and a local director to set up a company.
• A company in Ireland will require paid up capital depending on the business sector of the company.
• Besides Ireland, set up company in uk is also the top choice of many businesses.