Not only does Ireland’s unique strategic location make it the perfect gateway to Europe and the US, it has also been ranked the best country in Europe for startups by smallbusinessprices.co.uk. In Dublin, you will have access to a young, diverse, highly educated and highly skilled workforce, both Irish and International, who enjoy a great quality of life.

Dublin is particularly well set-up for start-up businesses, with many supports both financial and non-financial in place, especially for those introducing a new or innovative product or service to international markets.

It doesn’t take much time or cost a great deal of money to set up a business here and the process is relatively straightforward. You can operate as a sole trader, partnership or limited company. Companies can be set up in as little as two to four days. See the Companies Registration Office for more.

Tax and customs

For start-ups, Revenue provides a guide to registering for tax – whether it’s as a sole trader, partnership (or trust) or company.

Legal matters and permits

Entrepreneurs coming from the EU and citizens of Norway, Iceland, Switzerland and Liechtenstein can set up businesses in Ireland without needing any visas or immigration permission. Anyone else who wishes to live in Ireland and run a business requires an immigration permission to do so. Enterprise Ireland works with eligible entrepreneurs looking to move to Ireland long term. To learn about additional legal matters, please read our dedicated guide.