Setting Up in Ireland:
Your Essential Guide
Everything international companies need to know before establishing a presence in one of Europe's most dynamic business destinations.
Europe's Gateway for Global Business
Ireland consistently ranks among Europe's top destinations for foreign direct investment - and for good reason.
Lowest Corporate Tax in the EU
Ireland's 12.5% corporation tax rate is among the lowest in Europe, making it a compelling base for international operations and European headquarters.
EU Market Access
Full access to the EU single market with 450 million consumers. Ireland is also the only English-speaking common law country remaining in the EU.
World-Class Talent
Ireland ranks among the world's top countries for highly educated, English-speaking talent. Nine of the top 10 global tech companies operate here.
Political Stability
Consistent pro-business government policy, strong rule of law, and a transparent regulatory environment trusted by Fortune 500 companies for decades.
IDA Ireland Support
IDA Ireland actively supports inward investment with grant assistance, R&D incentives, and hands-on support from initial enquiry through to opening day.
Speed to Market
A company can be incorporated in Ireland in as little as 5 days. Simple regulatory processes mean you can be operational faster than almost anywhere in Europe.
8 Steps to Setting Up in Ireland
A practical sequence for international companies establishing their first Irish entity - from legal structure through to opening your doors.
Define Your Structure
Decide whether to incorporate a new Irish company (most common: a Private Limited Company / LTD) or establish a branch of your existing foreign entity.
- LTD is most popular for subsidiaries
- One EEA-resident director required (or bond)
- Take advice from an Irish solicitor early
Engage IDA Ireland
If your business employs 10+ people or has significant investment, contact IDA Ireland - the state agency for foreign direct investment. It's free and they actively help.
- Grants for capital investment & R&D
- Training and employment support
- Site selection and introductions
Incorporate Your Company
Register with the Companies Registration Office (CRO). The process is online and straightforward, typically taking 3–10 business days with a registered agent.
- Appoint a company secretary
- Register a company name and CRO number
- Set up Memorandum & Articles of Association
Register for Tax
Register with Revenue Commissioners for Corporation Tax, VAT (if turnover exceeds €37,500 for services), PAYE and PRSI for any employees you hire.
- Obtain your Tax Registration Number (TRN)
- R&D tax credit: 25% on qualifying spend
- Knowledge Development Box at 6.25% for IP
Open a Business Bank Account
Allow 2–6 weeks for Irish bank account opening. Some international banks operating in Ireland offer faster onboarding for existing global clients.
- AIB, Bank of Ireland, Ulster Bank are main options
- Revolut Business or Stripe Atlas for fast interim
- Have CRO certificate and ID documents ready
Secure Your Commercial Space
This is where getting the right advice makes a significant financial difference. Whether you need a serviced office or a long-term HQ lease, the Irish commercial property market requires local expertise.
- Dublin city centre, IFSC, Silicon Docks
- Cork, Galway & Limerick offer cost advantages
- MR Commercial can guide you from day one
Build Your Team
Ireland has strong employment law protections. Contracts, working time rules and minimum wage requirements must be in place from day one of employment.
- National Minimum Wage: €14.15/hr (2026)
- Employer PRSI: 11.15% on salaries
- Work permits available for non-EEA hires
Comply & Grow
Maintain annual Companies Registration Office filings, Revenue returns, and ensure GDPR compliance if handling EU personal data - Ireland is home to many major EU DPA processes.
- Annual Return to CRO (B1 form) each year
- Corporation Tax return: 9 months after year end
- Data Protection Commission (DPC) based in Dublin
Where to Set Up: Key Business Regions
Ireland offers strong options beyond Dublin - each region has distinct strengths depending on your sector, team size, and budget.
Dublin
Ireland's capital is home to the European HQs of Google, Meta, LinkedIn, and hundreds more. The IFSC and Grand Canal Dock ("Silicon Docks") are the primary tech and finance zones.
Cork
Cork offers lower commercial rents than Dublin with excellent talent from University College Cork. Apple, Amazon and many pharma firms have major Cork operations.
Galway & Limerick
Galway is the MedTech capital of Europe with 30,000+ employed in the sector. Limerick is growing fast as a financial services centre with strong IDA support.
Ireland Setup Checklist
Use this checklist to track your setup progress - from initial decisions through to operational launch.
Ready to Find Your Irish Base?
MR Commercial has deep expertise helping international companies find, negotiate and secure commercial space across Ireland - from day-one serviced offices to long-term headquarters.