Setting up a company in Ireland involves several important steps beyond just registration. This comprehensive guide takes you through the entire journey from initial planning to your first day of trading.
€50
CRO fee (online)
3-5 Days
CRO processing
7 Steps
To full setup
4 Types
Business structures
Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure
Your first major decision is choosing the right legal structure. This affects your liability, taxation, and compliance requirements.
Sole Trader
Simplest structure
You are personally liable for business debts. All profits are yours but higher tax at higher incomes.
Advantages
- Simple to set up
- Less paperwork
- All profits yours
Disadvantages
- Unlimited liability
- Higher tax rates
Partnership
2+ people
Two or more people sharing profits and liabilities. Each partner is responsible for the business debts.
Private Limited Company (LTD)
Separate legal entity
A separate legal entity with limited liability. Most popular choice for Irish businesses.
Advantages
- Limited liability
- Tax efficient
- Professional image
Disadvantages
- More compliance
- Annual filings
Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
Protected partners
Partners with limited liability protection. Common for professional services firms.
Pro Tip
If you expect profits over €50,000, a limited company becomes more tax-efficient due to the 12.5% corporation tax rate compared to up to 52% marginal income tax for sole traders.
Learn More About Limited Companies
Step 2: Plan Your Business
Before registering, develop a clear plan covering these essential areas:
Check availability with CRO before committing
Define exactly what you'll offer
Identify who your customers are
Determine how you'll charge
Calculate your startup capital needs
Understand compliance requirements
The Complete Setup Process
Register Your Company
For a limited company, register with the CRO
- Check company name availability
- Prepare company constitution
- Complete Form A1
- Submit online via CORE (€50) or by post (€100)
- Receive Certificate of Incorporation (3-5 days)
Register for Taxes
Within 30 days of starting to trade, register with Revenue
- Corporation Tax (12.5% on trading profits)
- VAT if turnover exceeds thresholds
- PAYE/PRSI if you have employees
Open a Business Bank Account
A separate business bank account is essential
- Certificate of Incorporation required
- Company constitution
- Director ID documents
- Proof of business address
Set Up Your Systems
Establish bookkeeping and operational systems
- Choose accounting software (Xero, QuickBooks, Sage)
- Set up chart of accounts and invoice templates
- Prepare terms and conditions
- Create privacy policy and service agreements
Insurance and Compliance
Protect your business with appropriate coverage
- Public liability insurance
- Professional indemnity insurance
- Employer's liability (if hiring)
- Register beneficial ownership (RBO)
VAT Registration Thresholds
You must register for VAT if turnover exceeds €37,500 for services or €75,000 for goods. Voluntary registration is possible below these thresholds. Learn more in our VAT returns guide.
Company Setup Checklist
Typical Setup Costs
| Cost Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| CRO registration (online) | €50 |
| Professional incorporation service | €299-€599 |
| Registered office address (yearly) | €100-€200 |
| Public liability insurance (yearly) | €250-€500 |
| Accounting software (yearly) | €150-€360 |
Recommended Software
Xero
Cloud accounting, great for small businesses
QuickBooks
Feature-rich, good for growing companies
Sage
Traditional choice, comprehensive features
After You've Set Up Your Company
Ready to Set Up Your Company?
Let us handle the paperwork while you focus on building your business. We'll guide you through every step of the process.
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