It takes about  four weeks to incorporate a company in this jurisdiction. Although ready-made companies are available.

Type of Company(s):
Company law in Ireland makes provision for the establishment of Public Limited Companies, Private Limited Companies, Private Unlimited Companies and companies limited by guarantee with or without a share capital. Foreign Investors tend to go for the Private Limited Company.

A company may be incorporated by any name, provided it is not thought to be undesirable by the Registrar. Approval of company names should be sought prior to incorporation.

A company name must end with the word "Limited" or "Teoranta".

All companies incorporated in the Republic of Ireland must have their Registered Office  situated in the country.

An Irish company must have at least two directors. Corporate directors are not permitted and note that director's details will appear on public record.

Irish companies may have only one shareholder and there are no restrictions on nationality. Furthermore, nominee shareholders or discretionary trustees may be used for the purposes of anonymity.

The first Annual General Meeting must be held within 18 months from the date of incorporation and thereafter, every 15 months.

The company must appoint an auditor to prepare accounts and these must be laid before the members of the company at the annual general meetings.

Taxation:
A company which is not resident in Ireland will only pay corporate tax in Ireland if it is carrying out business in Ireland through a branch or agency.

A company not resident in Ireland but with its base within the E.C. will be liable to Companies Capital Duty  which is specified by the law of that particular jurisdiction. If the company is not resident in Ireland and is controlled from a country outside the E.C., the company will pay Companies Capital Duty in Ireland.

Summary Benefits:

• Full member of the European Community
  

• Non disclosure of beneficial ownership
  

• Well developed economically and politically
  

• No corporate tax for non-resident companies
  

• Immediate company availability
  

• No need to file accounts with Tax Authorities unless requested to do so