Let’s talk about company formation in Ireland.
Ireland is an attractive location for business incorporation due to its favourable corporate tax system, skilled workforce and access to the European market. If you’re planning to form a company in Ireland, it’s important to understand the process and comply with the legal requirements. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps of forming a company in Ireland, from choosing a company name to ongoing compliance.
Choosing a Company Name
The first step in forming a company in Ireland is choosing a company name. The company name must be unique and not already in use by another company. It’s also important to make sure the name doesn’t contain any restricted words or expressions. The Companies Registration Office (CRO) provides a name availability search tool to help you check if a name is available.
Filing the Incorporation Documents
Once you’ve chosen a company name, the next step is to file the incorporation documents with the CRO. The following documents are required:
- A Memorandum of Association, which sets out the company’s name and its objects.
- An Article of Association, which contains the company’s internal rules and regulations.
- A Form A1, which must be signed by the company’s directors and secretary.
The company’s directors are responsible for managing the company’s affairs, while the secretary is responsible for ensuring that the company complies with its statutory obligations.
Registering for Taxes
After incorporating your company, you’ll need to register for taxes. The corporate tax rate in Ireland is 12.5%, one of the lowest in the European Union. In addition, you’ll need to register for VAT if your company’s annual turnover exceeds €85,000.
Opening a Bank Account
In order to open a bank account for your company, you’ll need to provide the bank with the following documents:
- A copy of the incorporation certificate
- A copy of the company’s Memorandum and Articles of Association
- ID and proof of address for the directors and shareholders.
Ongoing Compliance
Once your company is incorporated, there are ongoing compliance requirements that must be met. These include:
- Filing annual returns with the CRO
- Holding an annual general meeting
- Keeping accurate records of the company’s financial transactions
Incorporating a company in Ireland can be a straightforward process with the right guidance. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ll be able to navigate the process and ensure that your company is compliant with all the legal requirements. With a favourable corporate tax system, skilled workforce and access to the European market, Ireland is an attractive location for business incorporation. Feel free to contact us regarding any questions about forming a company in Ireland.