Setting up a company in Ireland from the UK is a strategic move for many entrepreneurs and businesses. Ireland offers a highly attractive environment for business with its 12.5% corporate tax rate, English-speaking workforce, access to the EU single market, and a transparent legal system. Post-Brexit, more UK-based companies are incorporating in Ireland to maintain seamless access to European markets. This guide outlines the process for setting up an Irish company from the UK, key considerations, and how a specialist law firm like Chern & Co. can help.

1. Choose the Right Company Structure

The most popular type of company for foreign entrepreneurs in Ireland is a Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD). This structure offers limited liability to shareholders and a flexible internal governance model. It can have just one director (though there are requirements for EEA-residency, explained below) and does not require an authorised share capital.

Other options include:

Designated Activity Company (DAC) – more suitable for regulated sectors.
Company Limited by Guarantee (CLG) – often used by non-profits.
Branch – an extension of a UK-based company.

For most UK entrepreneurs looking to trade independently in Ireland, an LTD is the most straightforward choice.

2. Name Your Company

Your company name must be unique and distinguishable from existing registered companies in Ireland. It must not be misleading, offensive, or suggest state sponsorship. A name check can be performed through the Companies Registration Office (CRO). Including distinctive elements such as your brand or sector can help avoid name rejection.

3. Appoint Directors and a Company Secretary

Director Requirements: An Irish company must have at least one director who is a natural person (not another company). If none of the directors are EEA (European Economic Area) residents, your company will need to secure a Section 137 Non-EEA Resident Bond. This bond provides a financial guarantee (usually €25,000) to cover potential penalties for non-compliance with company law.
Company Secretary: Every Irish company must have a company secretary responsible for maintaining statutory registers and filing returns. The secretary can be one of the directors if there are two or more. If you have only one director, a separate secretary must be appointed.

4. Registered Office and Business Address

Your company must have a registered office in Ireland—this is the official address where legal documents and correspondence will be sent. It must be a physical address in Ireland, not a PO Box. If you're based in the UK, it's common to use a professional address service.

You may also have a business correspondence address, which can differ from the registered office.

5. Draft the Constitution

The constitution of a Private Company Limited by Shares outlines the rules governing your company and replaces the need for separate Memorandum and Articles of Association. It must be submitted with the incorporation documents.

6. File Incorporation Documents with the CRO

To incorporate your company, you must file Form A1 along with the constitution to the Companies Registration Office (CRO). Form A1 includes:

Company name
Registered office
Details of directors and secretary
Share capital and shareholder information
Statement of compliance with the Companies Act 2014

Online incorporation through CORE (the CRO’s online portal) generally takes 3–5 working days.

7. Tax Registration

Once your company is incorporated, you’ll need to register with the Irish Revenue Commissioners for the appropriate taxes, including:

Corporation Tax
VAT (if your turnover exceeds the threshold or you engage in certain activities)
Employer PAYE (if you plan to hire employees)

Even if you're operating from the UK, Irish registration may be required depending on the location of your customers, staff, and where contracts are concluded.

8. Open an Irish Business Bank Account

Opening a business bank account in Ireland is mandatory for operating and managing your company finances. Irish banks require directors to undergo identity verification and may request a physical meeting. Some banks offer remote onboarding for international directors, but timelines vary.

9. Maintain Ongoing Compliance

After incorporation, you must comply with Irish corporate governance and tax obligations, including:

Filing an Annual Return (Form B1) with the CRO
Maintaining statutory registers (directors, shareholders, etc.)
Holding annual general meetings (AGMs), unless exempt
Keeping proper financial accounts and submitting them annually

Why Work with Chern & Co.

Setting up a company in a different jurisdiction can be complex, especially with cross-border legal, tax, and regulatory requirements. This is where Chern & Co., an established Irish law firm, becomes invaluable.

Chern & Co. provides comprehensive company formation services tailored to UK clients. Their team handles everything from:

Securing a registered office in Ireland
Preparing incorporation documents
Acting as your Company Secretary
Arranging Section 137 Bonds for non-EEA directors
Providing tax registration assistance
Guiding you through bank account setup
Ensuring ongoing legal and CRO compliance

By engaging Chern & Co., you gain peace of mind knowing that your Irish company is established correctly, legally compliant, and built for success. Their experience with UK-based clients post-Brexit makes them uniquely positioned to assist with any challenges that may arise during the process.

Final Thoughts

Ireland remains a top destination for UK entrepreneurs and businesses looking to maintain a foothold in the EU. The incorporation process is relatively straightforward but must be done correctly to avoid delays and legal complications. With professional guidance from a trusted firm like Chern & Co., you can navigate Irish company formation confidently and efficiently.

Whether your goal is expanding your brand into the EU, accessing new markets, or optimizing your tax structure, setting up a company in Ireland is a sound strategic choice.

How to Set Up a Company in Ireland from the UK