Limited Company in Ireland: How to Register + Benefits
If you’re planning to launch a business in Ireland, registering a Limited Company is one of the most popular and practical options available. It’s the go-to structure for startups, freelancers, and international entrepreneurs alike—offering tax advantages, limited liability, and a professional business image.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to register a limited company in Ireland and the key benefits of doing so. Whether you’re local or a foreign founder looking to set up a company in Ireland, this article will give you a clear path forward.
What Is a Limited Company in Ireland?
A Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD) is the most common type of limited company in Ireland. It has its own legal identity, separate from its directors and shareholders, and offers limited liability, meaning your personal assets are protected if the business runs into trouble.
A limited company can:
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Enter into contracts
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Own property
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Sue or be sued in its own name
This structure makes it an ideal choice for entrepreneurs who want to set up a company in Ireland and operate with legal and financial protection.
Step-by-Step: How to Register a Limited Company in Ireland
Registering a limited company is a straightforward process, typically completed within a week. Here’s how you can do it:
Step 1: Choose a Company Name
Your company name must be unique and distinguishable from other registered businesses in Ireland. You can check name availability using the Companies Registration Office (CRO) online portal.
Tip: Avoid names that are too similar to existing companies, as the CRO may reject them.
Step 2: Decide on Directors and Company Secretary
To set up a limited company in Ireland, you need:
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At least one director
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A company secretary (can be the same person in a single-director company)
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At least one EEA-resident director OR a Section 137 bond if all directors live outside the EEA
Each director must be over 18 and not disqualified from holding directorship.
Step 3: Registered Office Address
You must have a physical Irish address (not a P.O. box) to serve as your company’s registered office. This is where all legal and government correspondence will be sent.
If you’re a non-resident, formation agents can provide virtual office services.
Step 4: Decide on Shareholders and Share Capital
You’ll need to:
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Issue shares to at least one shareholder (can be the same person as the director)
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Determine the authorized share capital (usually €100,000) and issued share capital (commonly €100)
There’s no minimum capital requirement, making it easy and affordable to start.
Step 5: Prepare Company Documents
To register your company, you’ll need:
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Company Constitution – defines how the company operates
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Form A1 – includes details like company name, directors, secretary, registered office, and share capital
You can file these online via the CRO’s CORE platform or use a company formation service.
Step 6: Submit to CRO and Get Incorporated
Once submitted, the Companies Registration Office will review your application. If approved, you’ll receive a Certificate of Incorporation, and your company will be officially registered.
Processing time: 3–5 working days
What Happens After Registration?
Once your limited company is incorporated, there are several steps you’ll need to take to get fully operational:
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Register for taxes with Revenue (corporation tax, VAT, PAYE if hiring)
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Open a business bank account
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Set up accounting and bookkeeping systems
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File an annual return (first due 6 months after incorporation)
If you’re planning to set up a company in Ireland for the long term, staying compliant with legal and financial regulations is key.
Key Benefits of a Limited Company in Ireland
Here are the main advantages of choosing a limited company structure when you set up a company in Ireland:
1. Limited Liability Protection
Your personal assets are separate from your business liabilities. If the company incurs debt or legal issues, your personal wealth is shielded.
2. Tax Efficiency
Ireland’s corporate tax rate is just 12.5%, one of the lowest in Europe. You can also access:
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R&D tax credits (up to 25%)
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Knowledge Development Box (KDB) for IP-related profits
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Tax-efficient salary and dividend planning for directors
3. Professional Image
Operating as a limited company gives your business more credibility with clients, partners, and investors. It signals structure, stability, and accountability.
4. Access to Grants and Funding
Many Irish government supports—like Enterprise Ireland’s High-Potential Start-Up Program or Local Enterprise Office (LEO) grants—are only available to incorporated companies.
This opens doors to funding and mentoring not accessible to sole traders.
5. Ease of Ownership Transfer
Shares in a limited company can be transferred, sold, or issued to new investors—allowing for future growth, exits, or partnership changes.
6. Global Business Access
By forming an Irish limited company, especially post-Brexit, you gain unrestricted access to EU markets, along with a base in a tech-friendly, English-speaking country.
Can Foreigners Set Up a Limited Company in Ireland?
Yes, you can set up a company in Ireland even if you’re not an Irish resident. However, there are some important considerations:
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If no director is resident in the EEA, you must buy a Section 137 bond (~€2,000, valid for 2 years)
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You must provide an Irish registered office address
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Local tax and legal compliance still applies
Many foreign founders use formation agents to streamline the process and ensure compliance.
Final Thoughts
Registering a limited company in Ireland is a smart move for entrepreneurs looking to build a solid foundation in one of Europe’s most business-friendly environments. Whether you’re launching a local startup or expanding internationally, Ireland offers flexibility, tax efficiency, and global access.
The process to set up a company in Ireland is clear, cost-effective, and supported by a network of professionals ready to help. With the right preparation and guidance, you can get your business up and running in just a few days.
Whether you’re launching a tech startup or expanding into Europe, Ireland is a powerful hub with global reach and strong support for entrepreneurs. Chern & Co helps local and international customers to incorporate and register their businesses in Ireland and the UK for over 15 years. We believe in long-term relationships and support our clients as their businesses grow, maintaining full compliance with statutory requirements.
