Register Your Company in Ireland from India

Registering your company in Ireland offers a strategic gateway to both the European and global markets. Ireland is known for its pro-business environment, low corporate tax rate (12.5% for trading income), and robust legal and regulatory frameworks. As a member of the European Union and the Eurozone, Ireland provides access to over 450 million consumers, making it an attractive location for startups and multinational corporations.

Company registration rules are different in every country. If you plan to expand your business to Northern Ireland (part of the UK), the process is not the same. You would need to register your company with Companies House in Belfast and follow UK laws and tax rules. These are also different from the rules in the Republic of Ireland, even though the two are close to each other.

Setting up a company in Ireland is a relatively straightforward process, whether you're an Irish resident or a foreign entrepreneur. The most common company structure is the Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD), which offers limited liability and flexible governance. With digital systems and professional service providers available to assist, the process can often be completed in a matter of days.

Company formation in Ireland positions your business at the heart of the European Union, making Ireland a prime destination for global expansion. Here's why setting up your company in Ireland is a smart strategic move:

Strategic Location and EU Membership

Ireland’s strategic location on Europe's western seaboard provides unparalleled access to the vast EU market of over 450 million consumers.

• EU Market Access: Ireland provides access to the EU’s single market, allowing free movement of goods, services, capital, and people across member states.
• Single Incorporation for EU Trade: Company incorporation in Ireland offers access to the entire EU market. Once your company is incorporated in Ireland, you can trade across all EU member states without needing additional registrations.
• No Currency Conversion Costs: Using the Euro eliminates FX charges when trading with most EU nations, saving money as transaction volumes grow.
• Faster Market Entry: Companies incorporating in Ireland typically enter the European market 30–40% faster than those in other jurisdictions.
• Lower Bureaucratic Costs: Ireland's streamlined regulations mean less red tape, saving you time and money on compliance.

Favorable Corporate Tax Regime

Ireland boasts one of the most attractive corporate tax rates in the world, just 12.5% for trading income, making setting up a company in Ireland a highly appealing option for global businesses.

• Attractive Corporate Tax Rate: Ireland offers a competitive 12.5% tax rate on trading income, enhancing overall profitability.
• R&D Tax Credit: Businesses can claim a 25% tax credit on eligible Research & Development expenses, lowering their effective tax burden.
• Knowledge Development Box (KDB): Qualifying IP income is taxed at a reduced rate of 6.25%, ideal for tech, pharma, and software firms.
• Double Taxation Treaties: Ireland has 70+ treaties that prevent double taxation, offering added benefits for companies operating internationally.
• Financially Appealing Jurisdiction: Combined, these incentives make Ireland highly attractive for company registration and global expansion.

Thriving Business Ecosystem

The country has cultivated a robust and innovative business ecosystem.

• Global Business Hub: Ireland is home to major multinationals like Google, Apple, Microsoft, and LinkedIn.
• Thriving Startup Ecosystem: Active across sectors like fintech, healthtech, AI, and cybersecurity, creating a vibrant innovation landscape.
• Robust Support Network: Abundant incubators, accelerators, and VC funds support startups and growing businesses.
• Favorable Business Environment: Streamlined processes for company registration checks and operations make setup easy.
• Government-Backed Innovation: The Irish government offers strong R&D incentives and pro-business policies to drive innovation and development.

Skilled Workforce & English-Speaking Population

Company incorporation in Ireland gives your business access to a highly educated, young, and adaptable workforce. Ranked among the top 10 globally for higher education quality, Ireland excels in fields like technology, financial services, and pharmaceuticals, ensuring a steady supply of skilled graduates to support business growth.

As the only native English-speaking country in the Eurozone, it simplifies communication and business operations for Indian companies, eliminating language barriers that might otherwise complicate training, documentation, and cross-border management. This linguistic advantage is a major draw for international businesses seeking a European hub.

Strong Economic Ties Between India & Ireland

India and Ireland share growing economic ties, with increasing trade and investment flows. This strong relationship creates a supportive environment for Indian businesses looking to establish a presence in Ireland.

• Strong Bilateral Trade: Annual trade in goods and services between India and Ireland exceeds €16 billion (Rs. 1,44,000 crores) and continues to grow.
• Key Synergy Sectors: Major collaborative areas include IT, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare.
• Indian IT Presence: Leading Indian companies like TCS, Wipro, HCL, and Infosys have established significant operations in Ireland.
• Double Tax Avoidance Agreement (DTAA): In place since 2001, it helps prevent double taxation, encouraging smoother trade and investment.
• Favorable Cultural and Business Ties: A shared history and mutual cultural respect create a supportive environment for Indian businesses expanding to Ireland.

Understanding the eligibility criteria is the first step towards successful company registration in Ireland. These requirements ensure compliance with Irish company law and maintain the integrity of the business landscape.

1. Minimum Directors and Shareholders

An Irish private limited company (LTD) needs at least one director and one shareholder. It's important to note a key requirement:

• EEA Residency Requirement: At least one company director must be a resident of the European Economic Area (EEA), which includes EU countries, Norway, Liechtenstein, and Iceland.
• Non-EEA Directors: If all directors are from India or other non-EEA countries, an additional compliance step is required.
• Section 137 Bond: Companies must obtain a Section 137 Non-EEA Resident Director Bond worth €25,000 (approx. Rs. 22,50,000) as insurance against potential non-compliance penalties.
• Nominee Director Option: Alternatively, businesses can appoint a nominee EEA director to meet the residency requirement.
• Director and Secretary Rules: A company can have a single director, but that person cannot also act as the company secretary.
• Eligibility Criteria: All directors must be at least 18 years old and not be undischarged bankrupts.

2. Registered Office Address in Ireland

Every Irish company must have a registered office address located within Ireland. This address is crucial as it serves:

• Official Contact Point: The registered office serves as the official address for all correspondence from the Company Registration Office (CRO) and government bodies like the Revenue Commissioners.
• Physical Address Requirement: It must be a real, physical address in Ireland; PO boxes are not accepted.
• Use of Director's Address: A director's residential address in Ireland may be used, if available.
• Virtual Office Option: Many international companies choose a virtual office service from professional firms to meet this requirement.
• Mail Handling: These services often include mail forwarding, ensuring prompt receipt of official communications.
• Publicly Listed: The registered office address is publicly accessible on the CRO register.

3. Company Secretary Requirements

Every Irish company must appoint a company secretary, a key requirement when setting up a company in Ireland. This role is essential for ensuring compliance with all statutory obligations under Irish company law. While no formal qualifications are strictly required, the secretary must have the skills and resources to carry out duties effectively, which include:

i) Key Responsibilities: The company secretary is responsible for tasks such as:

• Filing annual returns and documents with the CRO
• Maintaining statutory registers (e.g., members and directors)
• Recording minutes of board meetings
• Safekeeping the company seal

ii) Single Director Companies: A sole director cannot also serve as the company secretary; a separate person or corporate entity is required.

iii) Multiple Directors: If the company has two or more directors, one of them can also act as the company secretary.

iv) Professional Assistance: Many businesses, especially those unfamiliar with Irish corporate governance, choose to appoint a professional firm as their company secretary.

4. Company Name Uniqueness

Company name registration in Ireland requires that your chosen name be unique and clearly distinguishable from existing names on the CRO Ireland register. It cannot be identical or too similar to a name already in use, ensuring clarity and avoiding legal or branding conflicts.

• Name Uniqueness Required: The CRO enforces strict rules to ensure each company name is distinct and not misleading.
• Name Availability Check: Use the CRO's CORE system to perform a company name availability check before registration.
• Restricted Words: Certain terms like "Bank," "Insurance," or "University" require special permissions or licenses.
• Prohibited Names: Offensive or misleading names are not allowed under CRO guidelines.
• Naming Convention: For private limited companies, the name must end with "Limited" or "Ltd" (or "Teoranta" in Irish).

5. Financial Requirements (e.g., Share Capital)

For a Private Company Limited by Shares, Ireland has a very flexible approach to share capital. Unlike some jurisdictions, there are no prescribed minimum share capital requirements. This means you can register a company with as little as €1 in issued share capital.

While there's no minimum, a company's constitution will typically specify an "authorized share capital," which is the maximum number of shares the company is permitted to issue. Shares can be denominated in any currency, providing flexibility for international businesses.

6. Beneficial Ownership Registration

Under the Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing) Act 2010 (as amended):

• Mandatory Registration: All companies in Ireland must register their beneficial owners with the Register of Beneficial Ownership (RBO).
• Definition of Beneficial Owner: A beneficial owner is any individual who directly or indirectly owns or controls more than 25% of shares or voting rights, or otherwise exercises control.
• Purpose: This registration supports transparency and helps combat money laundering and terrorist financing, complying with EU directives.
• Required Information: Includes the beneficial owner's name, month and year of birth, nationality, country of residence, and nature and extent of ownership.
• Identity Verification: Owners without an Irish PPS number must submit a sworn declaration (Form BEN2) to verify their identity.
• Public Accessibility: Beneficial ownership details are publicly accessible, but sensitive info like the full date of birth is restricted.

Choosing the right company structure is crucial for your business. Here are the most common types of companies you can register in Ireland:

1. Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD)

When setting up a company in Ireland, the Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD) is the most popular and straightforward option for most businesses. It offers limited liability, meaning shareholders’ risk is restricted to any unpaid share capital, and it operates with a single constitutional document.

2. Designated Activity Company (DAC)

A DAC can be limited by shares or by guarantee. Unlike an LTD, a DAC must have an objects clause in its constitution, specifying the activities it is authorized to undertake. This structure is often chosen by companies that require more defined powers or are regulated.

3. Public Limited Company (PLC)

A Public Limited Company can offer its shares to the public and must have a minimum issued share capital of €25,000 (approximately Rs. 22,50,000). This structure is suitable for larger businesses planning to list on a stock exchange.

4. Registering a Branch of a Foreign Company

Company name registration in Ireland is essential whether you're forming a new entity or registering a branch of an existing foreign company. If you choose to register a branch, keep in mind that it operates as an extension of the parent company, not a separate legal entity, and its financial activities are consolidated with the parent company’s records. The branch must still register its name with the CRO, ensuring it doesn’t conflict with existing Irish company names.

To register a company in Ireland, specific documents and details must be submitted to the CRO. Carefully preparing these documents is essential for a smooth and efficient registration. Here’s a comprehensive list of what's typically required:

1. For the Company Itself

i) Proposed Company Name:

• You need to provide your chosen company name, ensuring it is unique and not already in use or too similar to existing companies on the CRO register.
• The name must comply with CRO naming guidelines, including ending with "Limited" or "Ltd" (or "Teoranta" if in Irish) for private companies limited by shares. We recommend having at least three alternative names in order of preference. You can perform a preliminary company registration check in Ireland using the CRO's online search facility.

ii) Company Constitution:

• When setting up a company in Ireland, the Constitution is the foundational legal document for your business, replacing the traditional MoA and AoA for most Private Limited Companies (LTDs) under the Companies Act 2014.
• It outlines the company’s name, states that it is a private company limited by shares, and specifies the internal rules governing its structure and operations. For LTDs, there is no "objects clause" limiting the company's activities; it has the same contractual capacity as a natural person.
• The constitution must be signed by the subscribers (initial shareholders) and their signatures witnessed.

iii) Registered Office Address:

• An official physical address in the Republic of Ireland is mandatory for all legal correspondence from the CRO Ireland and other government bodies.
• It cannot be a Post Office (P.O.) Box. If you do not have a physical presence in Ireland, professional service providers can offer a legitimate registered office address, often bundled with mail forwarding services.

iv) Business Address (if different from Registered Office):

• If your company's day-to-day operational address differs from its registered office address, you should also provide these details. This is the location where your primary business activities will be conducted.

v) Details of Issued Share Capital:

• You need to specify the total number of shares the company will initially issue, their nominal value per share (e.g., €1 per share), and how these shares are allocated among the initial shareholders.
• For an LTD company, there is no minimum share capital, so you can issue as few as one share at €1. The constitution will also detail the company's authorized share capital, which is the maximum number of shares the company is permitted to issue.

vi) Non-EEA Resident Director Bond (if applicable):

• If your company does not have at least one director who is ordinarily resident in the European Economic Area (EEA), you must secure a Section 137 bond.
• This is an insurance policy, currently valued at €25,000, which covers any fines or penalties the company might incur from the Revenue Commissioners or the CRO Ireland for non-compliance with Irish company or tax law.
• The bond typically covers two years and must be in place from the date of incorporation. The bond number is usually required by the CRO before incorporation can be finalized.

2. For Indian Directors and Shareholders

i) Proof of Identity:

• For all proposed directors and shareholders, a certified copy of a valid passport is the most commonly accepted form of identification.
• The certification must be done by a qualified professional (e.g., a Notary Public, Chartered Accountant, or Solicitor) who can verify that it is a true copy of the original.

ii) Proof of Address:

• A recent utility bill (gas, electricity, landline phone bill), bank statement, or credit card statement is required for all directors and shareholders.
• This document must be dated within the last three months and clearly show the individual's name and residential address.
• Again, these documents typically need to be certified as true copies of the original by a qualified professional.

iii) Curriculum Vitae (CV):

• A comprehensive CV is usually required for all directors. This helps establish their professional background and experience.

iv) Professional Reference Letter:

• Some formation agents or banks may request a professional reference letter for each director, often from a bank or a reputable professional (e.g., a solicitor or accountant) who has known the individual for a certain period.

v) Personal Public Service Number (PPSN):

• From June 11, 2023, all proprietary directors (directors who also own shares) of Irish companies must provide either an Irish Personal Public Service Number (PPSN) or an Identified Person Number (IPN).
• If a director does not have a PPSN, an IPN can be obtained by completing a Form VIF (Verification of Identity Form) and having it witnessed and authenticated by a Notary Public or Commissioner for Oaths. This form essentially verifies your identity for the CRO.

3. For the Company Secretary

i) Personal Information:

• Full name, residential address, date of birth, nationality, and occupation.
• The company secretary can be an individual or a corporate body. If it's an individual, they must be at least 18 years old.

ii) Proof of Identity and Address:

• Similar to directors and shareholders, certified copies of a passport and a recent proof of address (e.g., utility bill, bank statement) are required for individual company secretaries.

These documents ensure that your Irish company meets all legal, administrative, and compliance standards for successful company registration in Ireland.

Setting up a company in Ireland is relatively affordable compared to many other European jurisdictions, making it an attractive option for international businesses. However, it’s important to understand the different components that make up the total company registration cost in Ireland to budget effectively.

Essential Registration Costs

1. CRO Filing Fees:

• Standard Online Registration Fee: €50 if submitted electronically through the CRO's CORE (Companies Online Registration Environment) system. This is the most common and cost-effective method.
• Paper Form A1 Submission: €100 for submitting the incorporation documents via paper. This method is less common and incurs a higher fee.

These are the mandatory official fees paid directly to CRO Ireland when submitting your company's incorporation documents. The online submission is quicker and more cost-effective.

2. Professional Service Fees:

i) Most entrepreneurs, especially those unfamiliar with Irish company law, utilize a formation agent or legal firm to handle the registration process. This usually includes a range of services:

• Company Constitution Preparation: Drafting the necessary legal document outlining the company’s structure and rules.
• Submission of Form A1: Handling the electronic or paper submission of the incorporation application.
• Provision of Company Secretary: Some packages include a company secretary service for the first year.
• Registered Office Service (if needed): Providing a registered office address in Ireland if you do not have a physical presence.

ii) Typical Cost Range: €250 – €700, depending on the specific services included in the package. More comprehensive packages will include a wider range of services and may cost more.

Conditional Costs

1. Non-EEA Resident Director Bond (if applicable):

• If your company does not have at least one director who is resident in the European Economic Area (EEA), you are legally required to obtain a Section 137 bond.
• Cost: Approximately €2,000 – €3,000 for two years. This bond acts as an insurance policy to cover potential fines or penalties. The cost can vary based on the provider and the specific terms of the bond.

2. Registered Office & Business Address Services:

i) Registered Office: If you don't have a physical presence in Ireland, you'll need to pay for a registered office service.

• Cost: €150 – €300/year.

ii) Business Correspondence Address (optional): If you want a separate address for your day-to-day business operations, you can also pay for a business correspondence address.

• Cost: €100 – €250/year.

Post-Registration Costs

1. Tax Registration (Optional but Recommended):

i) While not directly part of the initial company registration, it's crucial to register for taxes. This may be included in some professional service packages.

ii) Registration for:

• Corporation Tax
• VAT (Value Added Tax)
• PAYE (Pay As You Earn) if you plan to hire employees.

iii) Cost: Often included in professional service packages, or €100 – €200 if done separately.

Estimated Total Initial Costs

i) With EEA Director (and using online filing): €300 – €1,000.

• This assumes you are using online filing, have an EEA-resident director, and are utilizing a professional service for company formation.

ii) Without EEA Director (including bond and online filing): €2,500 – €3,500.

• This includes the cost of the Non-EEA Resident Director Bond, professional service fees, and assumes online filing.

Note: All INR conversions are approximate and based on an exchange rate of €1 = Rs. 100.13. Rates may vary.

Registering your company in Ireland is a structured and precise process. At RegisterKaro, we guide you through each crucial stage, ensuring every detail is handled correctly.

Step 1: Choose and Reserve Your Unique Company Name

The journey begins with selecting the perfect name for your new Irish venture.

1. Naming Conventions: Choose a unique company name that follows Irish rules. Ensure it’s not identical or too similar to existing names on the CRO register. For LTDs, the name must end with “Limited” or “Ltd.” Avoid restricted words like “Bank,” “University,” or “Insurance” unless you have the necessary permissions.
2. Availability Check: Search the CRO’s online database to confirm your preferred name is available and compliant with regulations.
3. Name Reservation (Optional): If your name is available, reserve it with the CRO for 28 days to secure it while you complete other registration steps. This is recommended but not mandatory.

Step 2: Gather and Prepare All Necessary Documentation

This is a critical phase where accuracy is paramount to avoid delays.

• Director and Shareholder Documents: You need to provide certified copies of passports for identity verification and recent utility bills or bank statements (dated within three months) as proof of address. Directors must also submit a detailed CV and, if requested, a professional reference letter.
• Company Secretary Details: Submit all required personal information and supporting documents for your company secretary. If appointing a corporate secretary, include their company details.
• Registered Office Proof: Provide valid proof of your Irish registered office address. If using a virtual office service, include documentation from the provider.
• Non-EEA Director Bond (if applicable): Arrange and prepare all necessary documents for the Section 137 Non-EEA Resident Director Bond if this applies to your company.
• Company Constitution: Prepare and sign the company constitution, which sets out your company’s rules and structure. For a Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD), this single document replaces the old MoA and AoA. Ensure it complies with the Companies Act 2014, and that initial shareholders sign it with witnessed “wet signatures” if required.

Step 3: File the Application (Form A1) and Constitution with the CRO

With all documentation in order, the formal application is made.

• Form A1 Completion: Accurately fill out Form A1, the main application for incorporation, including details about the company name, registered office, directors, company secretary, shareholders, and initial share capital.
• Electronic Filing: Submit Form A1 and the company constitution electronically through the CRO’s online CORE system. This method is faster, more efficient, and cost-effective compared to paper submissions.
• Declaration of Compliance: Ensure the declaration on Form A1 confirming compliance with the Companies Act 2014 is truthful and accurate before submission.

Step 4: Obtain the Certificate of Incorporation and Company Number

This step officially brings your company into existence.

• CRO Review and Approval: Once the Form A1 and constitution are filed, the CRO reviews the application for completeness and compliance. If everything is in order, they will approve the registration.
• Certificate of Incorporation: Upon successful review, your company will receive its official Certificate of Incorporation. This document is your company's "birth certificate," legally confirming its existence as a separate legal entity. It shows the company's name, its unique company number in Ireland, the date of incorporation, and the company type.
• Company Number Ireland: Along with the certificate, your company will be assigned a unique seven-digit company number in Ireland. This number is crucial for all future dealings with the CRO, tax authorities, and for opening bank accounts. The standard processing time for online applications is typically 3-5 working days, though expedited services are sometimes available for an additional fee.

Step 5: Register the Beneficial Ownership with the RBO

Compliance with anti-money laundering regulations is a mandatory post-incorporation step.

• Mandatory Registration: Immediately after your company is incorporated, we guide you through the mandatory registration of your company's beneficial ownership with the Central Register of Beneficial Ownership of Companies and Industrial and Provident Societies (RBO). This is a legal requirement under Irish and EU anti-money laundering legislation.
• Identifying Beneficial Owners: A beneficial owner is generally any natural person who directly or indirectly holds more than 25% of the company's shares or voting rights, or otherwise exercises control over the company. We assist in identifying all such individuals.
• Required Information: The RBO requires specific details for each beneficial owner, including their full name, month and year of birth, nationality, country of residence, and the nature and extent of their beneficial interest. For individuals without an Irish Personal Public Service (PPS) number, a sworn declaration (Form BEN2) is required.
• Online Portal: The registration is done through an online portal on the RBO website. There are no filing fees for this submission. This critical step ensures full transparency and compliance with regulatory obligations.

Engaging professional service providers like RegisterKaro can significantly help streamline the process and ensure accuracy, minimizing potential delays.

Your journey doesn't end with company registration in Ireland. Incorporation is just the beginning. Ongoing compliance with Irish laws and regulations is vital for maintaining your company's good standing, avoiding penalties, and ensuring its long-term success.

Corporate Tax Registration with the Irish Revenue Commissioners

Once your company is incorporated by the CRO Ireland, one of the very first and most critical steps is to register for Corporation Tax with the Irish Revenue Commissioners.

• Mandatory for all Trading Companies: All companies, even if they haven't started trading immediately, are required to register for Corporation Tax within 4 weeks from the date of first income or within 12 months from the incorporation date if no income has been received.
• Competitive Tax Rate: This registration ensures you comply with Ireland's highly attractive 12.5% corporate tax rate on trading income.
• Tax Reference Number (TRN): Upon successful registration, your company will be issued a Tax Reference Number (TRN), which is essential for all tax-related correspondence and filings.
• Revenue Online Service (ROS): Tax registration and subsequent filings are primarily handled through the Revenue Online Service (ROS), Ireland's secure online platform for tax matters. Your tax agent, like RegisterKaro, can manage this process on your behalf.
• Proprietary Directors: Be aware that proprietary directors (those owning at least 15% of company shares) may also need to register for Income Tax personally.

Value Added Tax (VAT) Registration

VAT is a consumption tax applied to most goods and services in Ireland and the EU.

1. Mandatory Thresholds: Your company will need to register for VAT if its annual turnover exceeds certain thresholds in a continuous 12-month period or in the current calendar year, or did so in the previous calendar year. The current thresholds (as of January 1, 2025) are:

• • €42,500 (approximately Rs. 38,25,000) for the supply of services.
  • €85,000 (approximately Rs. 76,50,000) for the supply of goods.

2. Voluntary Registration: Even if your turnover is below these thresholds, you might choose to voluntarily register for VAT. This can be beneficial if your business primarily makes taxable supplies and incurs significant VAT on its purchases, as it allows you to reclaim VAT.
3. VAT Rates: Ireland has a standard VAT rate of 23%, along with reduced rates (e.g., 13.5%, 9%, 4.8%) for specific goods and services, and a 0% rate for certain items like medical care and some foodstuffs.
4. Online Registration and Filings: VAT registration is done via ROS, and most VAT returns are filed bi-monthly. Non-compliance with VAT rules can lead to significant penalties.

Employer Registration (PAYE)

If your company plans to hire employees in Ireland, you must register as an employer.

• Pay As You Earn (PAYE): This registration is for Pay As You Earn (PAYE) purposes, which is Ireland's system for deducting income tax, Universal Social Charge (USC), and Pay Related Social Insurance (PRSI) from employee wages at source.
• Registration Deadline: You must register as an employer with the Revenue Commissioners within 9 days of hiring your first employee, provided their wages exceed €40 per month.
• Employee Deductions: Once registered, your company becomes responsible for calculating, deducting, and remitting these taxes to the Revenue Commissioners on behalf of your employees.
• Online Submissions: Employer registration and ongoing payroll submissions are handled electronically via ROS. Proper and timely payroll management is crucial to avoid penalties and ensure employee compliance.

Annual Compliance with the CRO

All Irish companies, regardless of their trading status, have an ongoing legal obligation to file an Annual Return with the CRO Ireland.

1. Annual Return Date (ARD): Your company's ARD is usually the anniversary of its incorporation date.
2. Filing Deadlines:

• • The first annual return is due 6 months after the company's incorporation date. Importantly, no financial statements are required with the first annual return.
  • Subsequent annual returns must be filed every twelve months by your company's ARD. The actual return, Form B1, along with the required financial statements, must be delivered to the CRO within 56 days of the ARD.

3. Required Information: The annual return includes details about the company's directors, secretary, registered office, share capital, and shareholder information. Since June 11, 2023, directors must also disclose their Personal Public Service (PPS) numbers, or a Verified Identity Number (VIN)/RBO number if they don't have a PPSN.
4. Financial Statements: For second and subsequent annual returns, your company typically needs to submit its statutory financial statements (including the balance sheet and profit and loss account, and sometimes an auditors' report) to the CRO.
5. Audit Exemption: Small companies meeting certain criteria (e.g., turnover of less than €15 million, balance sheet total less than €7.5 million, and fewer than 50 employees) can usually claim an audit exemption. However, filing your annual return late will result in the loss of this audit exemption for the following two years, meaning your company will be required to undergo a full audit, incurring additional costs.
6. Consequences of Non-Compliance: Failing to file on time leads to significant late filing fees (starting at €100 plus a daily penalty), loss of audit exemption, and can ultimately lead to the company being struck off the register and dissolved by the CRO, with potential prosecution for directors.

Opening a Corporate Bank Account in Ireland

A crucial practical step after incorporation is opening a corporate bank account in Ireland.

• Essential for Operations: This is essential for managing your company's finances, receiving payments, and making disbursements.
• Challenges for Non-Resident Directors: While Irish banks will open business accounts for companies with non-resident directors, it can sometimes be a challenging process. Banks have strict "Know Your Customer" (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) requirements, often requiring detailed due diligence.
• Required Documentation: Banks will typically ask for your Certificate of Incorporation, company constitution, proof of registration with the Register of Beneficial Ownership (RBO), proof of identity and address for all directors and signatories, and sometimes a business plan or evidence of economic ties to Ireland.
• Remote vs. In-Person: While some banks are becoming more flexible, many may still require at least one signatory or director to visit a branch in Ireland for identity verification.
• Our Support: At RegisterKaro, we provide guidance and support to streamline this process. We can advise you on which banks are more amenable to non-resident companies and help you prepare the necessary documentation to increase your chances of a successful application. This assistance is especially valuable for Indian businesses, who may find the process smoother with expert guidance.

The Irish company registration certificate is an official document issued by the CRO upon successful incorporation. It legally confirms your company's formation and is essential for opening bank accounts, signing contracts, and commencing business activities in Ireland and the EU.

The certificate includes key details such as:

• The official registered company name.
• The unique company registration number.
• The company type (e.g., Private Company Limited by Shares).
• The date of incorporation.
• The official seal of the CRO, confirming its authenticity.

This certificate is a legal foundation for doing business in Ireland and acts as proof of credibility, compliance, and operational legitimacy.