Most common business entity in Ireland
The Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD) is the standard choice for most small- to mid-size businesses in Ireland. Like a US LLC, it provides limited liability protection separated from the owners' personal assets. CRO registration fee €50; B1 annual return €20 (online).
The full menu of Ireland business structures
| Structure | Liability | Tax | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD) | Limited | 12.5% corporate | Most operating businesses |
| Sole proprietor / self-employed | Unlimited personal | Personal income tax rates | Freelancers, one-person services |
| Partnership | Joint and several | Pass-through to partners | Professional services (law, accounting) |
| Branch of foreign company | Parent company liability | 12.5% on Ireland-source profits | Foreign companies entering Ireland market |
| Public limited company | Limited | Same as Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD) but stricter | Companies preparing for listing |
Which one should you pick?
- Freelance or one-person service in Ireland? Self-employed structure if simple, Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD) if you want liability protection.
- Software / e-commerce / agency? Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD) — standard, scalable.
- Operating an existing foreign company in Ireland? Branch (simpler) or subsidiary Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD) (more substance).
- Planning to raise venture capital? Confirm investors accept Ireland entities. Many require a US Delaware C-Corp flip — see US company formation.
- Holding company for IP or other companies? Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD) with minimal substance requirements.
The Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD) in one paragraph
Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD) is Ireland's primary limited liability vehicle. Minimum paid-up capital: nominal. Headline corporate tax: 12.5%. 12.5% trading income, 25% passive. 15% top-up for global revenue > €750M (Pillar 2).. Banking accessibility: 8/10. Privacy: 4/10 (UBO public). Remote formation: yes. Processing time: 5 business days.
For US comparison, see Ireland vs USA. For non-resident formation specifics, see forming a Ireland company as a non-resident.