1. Choose your company type
The vast majority of start-ups use a private company limited by shares (LTD) under the Companies Act 2014. It has a simple one-document constitution, can have a single director, and its shareholders' liability is limited to what they've paid for their shares. Other types — a DAC (designated activity company), a CLG (company limited by guarantee, often used by clubs and charities) or a PLC — suit specific situations.
2. Pick and check your company name
The name must end in "Limited" or "Ltd" (or the Irish "Teoranta"/"Teo") and can't be identical or too similar to an existing company. The Companies Registration Office (CRO) can refuse names that are offensive, misleading or that suggest State sponsorship. A formation agent will check this before filing so your application isn't rejected.
3. Appoint directors and a company secretary
- At least one director, aged 18 or over.
- A company secretary — if you're the only director, the secretary must be a different person (or a corporate secretary service).
- At least one EEA-resident director, unless the company puts a €25,000 non-resident director bond in place or obtains a Section 140 certificate showing a real and continuous economic link to Ireland. See our director requirements guide.
4. Registered office, shares and activity
You need an Irish registered office address (it can be your accountant's or a registered office service), a decision on how many shares are issued and to whom, and a short description of the company's main activity (NACE code).
5. File Form A1 with the CRO
Incorporation is done by filing Form A1 and the company's constitution with the CRO, usually online through the CRO's CORE system. At the time of writing the online CRO fee is €50 (paper filing costs more). Applications using the standard model constitution are typically processed in around 5–10 working days.
6. After the certificate of incorporation
Getting the certificate isn't the finish line. Within months you'll need to register beneficial owners with the RBO, register for corporation tax with Revenue, open a business bank account and possibly register for VAT and as an employer. Our after-incorporation checklist walks through it.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to register a company in Ireland?
Online applications to the CRO using the standard constitution usually take about 5–10 working days once correctly filed. A formation agent can often prepare and file everything within 24–48 hours of getting your details.
How much does it cost to register a company in Ireland?
The CRO's own online filing fee is €50 at the time of writing. Professional formation packages from agents and accountants typically range from roughly €150 to €450 including the CRO fee, depending on what's bundled (secretary service, registered office, RBO filing, tax registration).
Can I register a company in Ireland on my own?
Yes — anyone can file Form A1 with the CRO. But rejected names, incorrect constitutions and missed RBO or tax deadlines are common, which is why most founders use a formation agent or accountant.
Can a non-resident register an Irish company?
Yes, but at least one director must be resident in the EEA unless the company puts a €25,000 non-resident director bond in place or holds a Section 140 certificate from Revenue.