Register a Company in Ireland from Germany

If you’re based in Germany and looking to expand your enterprise into the Irish market, how to register a company in Ireland from Germany is a question worth exploring carefully. Fortunately, Ireland offers a favorable business environment, enabling non-residents and foreign entrepreneurs to set up a company remotely. 

Ireland’s corporate tax regime and its full access to the European Union (EU) market make it an attractive jurisdiction. However, because you’re registering a company from abroad, there are extra considerations.

In this guide, you’ll be walked through the step-by-step process of how to register a company in Ireland from Germany, what the cost is likely to be, and how best to prepare.

Can You Register a Company in Ireland from Germany?

Yes, as a German resident, you can establish a business in Ireland, benefitting from Ireland’s straightforward legal structure and favourable EU position. When you explore the process, you’ll find you have a number of entity options in Ireland to choose from.

Why Start a Business in Ireland from Germany?

Here are some compelling reasons to register a company in Ireland from Germany, especially if you’re planning to tap into both Irish and broader European opportunities.

• Historical Business Roots Between Germany and Ireland: German enterprises have operated in Ireland since the 1800s, creating lasting trade and investment links. Today, Germany remains a leading investor, employing over 100,000 people across Irish industries.
• Strengthened Trade Mission and Economic Partnerships: Enterprise Ireland and International Development Association (IDA) Ireland’s 2024 trade mission to southern Germany deepens partnerships in high-value sectors, boosting two-way trade exceeding €60 billion annually.
• Major Trade Sectors Between Germany and Ireland: Germany exports vehicles, chemicals, electronics, and machinery to Ireland, while importing Irish pharmaceuticals, industrial chemicals, electronics, food, and precision measurement technology, reinforcing robust bilateral industrial trade ties.
• German Presence in Ireland: Over 3,000 German companies operate in Ireland, employing around 300,000 people. They’re drawn by Ireland’s skilled workforce, low corporate tax rate, and gateway access to EU markets.

Types of Business Structures in Ireland for German Entrepreneurs

Here’s a breakdown of the key business-entity types available in Ireland:

Entity Type	Liability	Compliance Requirements	Suitability for German Entrepreneurs
Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD)	Limited to shares held	Annual return, audited accounts for larger companies	Most SMEs; easy to register a company in Ireland from Germany
Designated Activity Company (DAC)	Limited	Annual return, stricter governance	Businesses with specific objectives or contracts
Public Limited Company (PLC)	Limited	Full compliance, annual audit, share capital minimum €25,000	Large ventures seeking investors or public funding

Step-by-Step Process to Register a Company in Ireland from Germany

Here’s a clear step-by-step process for entrepreneurs trying to understand how to incorporate a company in Ireland from Germany:

1. Choose Business Structure: Decide whether you’ll form an LTD, a DAC, etc. This step is crucial for planning because the chosen entity impacts liability, governance, tax treatment and documentation.
2. Reserve a Unique Company Name: Use the Companies Registration Office (CRO)’s name search and reservation service (via CORE) to ensure your proposed name isn’t already in use. 
3. Appoint a Registered Agent/Local Representative: While Ireland does not always require a registered agent, you do need a registered office in Ireland and at least one director who is resident in the European Economic Area (EEA) (or a bond posted).
4. Prepare Required Documents: Prepare the constitution of the company (articles of association), details of directors and the company secretary, registered office address in Ireland, and statement of compliance with the Companies Act. 
5. File Incorporation Documents (Articles of Organization/Incorporation): Submit the Form A1 and constitution to the CRO through their online portal, along with the filing fee. This is the formal step of how to incorporate a company in Ireland from Germany.
6. Obtain EIN/Tax ID: Once the company is incorporated, register with the Irish Revenue Commissioners for corporation tax, VAT (if required) etc.
7. Apply for Licenses and Permits: Depending on your business activities, you may need sector-specific licences or permits in Ireland. 
8. Open a Business Bank Account: With your certificate of incorporation from the CRO and tax registration in place, open a business bank account in Ireland. This completes your operational set-up.

Requirements for German Entrepreneurs

Here are the requirements for German-based entrepreneurs wanting to register a company in Ireland. These prerequisites ensure your application is compliant and smooth.

• For non-resident founders, you must supply a certified copy of a passport and proof of residential address (e.g., bank/utility statement dated within the last few months).
• Every Irish company must have a physical registered office address in the State, not just a PO Box.
• The entity must adopt a constitution that sets out its objects and rules.
• After incorporation, you’ll need to register for corporation tax (and if applicable VAT, PAYE) with the Revenue Commissioners. Also, non-resident directors must obtain an Identified Person Number (VIN) if they don’t have an Irish PPS number.
• If your business falls into a regulated sector in Ireland, you’ll need to apply for the relevant licence/permit before or soon after trading. 
• While Irish law doesn’t explicitly require a German review of your status, it is prudent to ensure your German business entity (if you already have one) is in good standing and you’re aware of cross-border obligations.

Cost of Incorporation in Ireland from Germany

Here’s a breakdown of the cost of incorporating a company in Ireland from Germany:

Aspect	Cost
Filing Fee with CRO	€50 for electronic registration
Application to act as a Registered Office Agent (ROA)	€15
Name Reservation	€40 on paper and €20 through electronic method
Change in Name Particulars	€15 on paper and free through electronic method
Annual Return (Form B1)	Free on paper and €20 for electronic filing
Declaration of Compliance (CLGs and DACs only)	€15 for paper and free for electronic filing

Opening a Business Bank Account in Ireland from Germany

While it is possible to open an Irish business bank account from Germany, non-resident entrepreneurs often face additional compliance checks and documentation requirements due to Ireland’s stringent Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations.

Local and International Banking Options

Local Irish Banks

For entrepreneurs who prefer locality, here are some options:

• Bank of Ireland: Offers dedicated business banking packages for foreign-owned companies; typically requires an in-person meeting with directors.
• Allied Irish Banks (AIB): Provides multi-currency business accounts and startup-friendly features, though remote account opening may be limited.
• Permanent TSB: Common choice for small and medium businesses, but may request proof of local operations (office lease or Irish director).

International & Digital Banks

For entrepreneurs who prefer flexibility, several digital and fintech-based alternatives can simplify account setup:

• Wise Business (formerly TransferWise): Enables IBAN-based multi-currency accounts including EUR, GBP, and USD.
• Revolut Business: Offers virtual Irish IBANs, quick online onboarding, and integrations with accounting platforms.
• Payoneer: Ideal for online businesses receiving global payments.
• N26 Business: A German fintech that supports international entrepreneurs operating in Ireland.

These solutions can be a good alternative if traditional banks require in-person verification.

KYC and Documentation Requirements

Irish banks are regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland and must comply with AML/KYC rules. Expect to provide the following:

• Certified copy of passport(s) and proof of address for all company directors and shareholders.
• Certificate of Incorporation and Company Constitution/Memorandum & Articles of Association.
• Company Registration Number and EIN or Irish VAT ID if applicable.
• Proof of Irish business address (registered office or virtual office agreement).
• Description of business activities, including source of funds and projected transactions.

If your company directors are all based in Germany, the bank may request notarized or apostilled documents under the Hague Convention.

Alternatives for Remote Setup

If you prefer to manage your finances without visiting Ireland, consider digital banking alternatives:

• Wise Business: Provides a European IBAN and supports direct integration with Irish accounting tools.
• Revolut Business: Allows you to open and manage your Irish business account remotely.
• Payoneer or Airwallex: Excellent options for receiving and sending international payments.

These solutions are especially beneficial if your Irish company’s transactions are mainly online and international.

Visas and Residency Considerations

While you can register a company in Ireland from Germany without physically relocating, it’s important to note that incorporation does not automatically grant residency or work rights in Ireland. Your ability to live, work, or manage a business in Ireland depends on your immigration status and the nature of your business activities.

As Germany and Ireland are both members of the EU and the EEA, German citizens do not require a visa or residence permit to live or work in Ireland. This means you can incorporate a company and operate it freely without any additional immigration approvals.

However, if your company plans to employ non-EU/EEA staff, standard work permit rules will apply to those individuals.

Compliance and Ongoing Responsibilities

To maintain your company’s good standing with Irish authorities, you must comply with ongoing reporting, tax, and administrative obligations. These ensure transparency, proper taxation, and legal continuity under the Companies Act 2014.

• Annual Return Filing: All Irish companies, including those incorporated by foreign nationals, must file an Annual Return (Form B1) with the CRO every year.
• Corporation Tax and Other Filings: After incorporation, your company must register for taxation with the Revenue Commissioners.
• Maintaining a Registered Office and Agent: Every Irish company must maintain a registered office address in Ireland. This is where legal notices and official correspondence are sent.

Challenges When Registering a Company in Ireland from Germany

While Ireland’s incorporation system is one of the most business-friendly in Europe, German entrepreneurs may still encounter several practical, legal, and administrative challenges when trying to register a company. Understanding these pain points upfront can help you plan effectively and minimize delays or compliance risks.

• Complex Legal Documentation: Even though Ireland’s company registration can be completed online through the CRO, the process involves several legal documents that must be correctly drafted and filed. For non-resident founders, additional notarized or apostilled identification documents are usually required under Irish AML rules. Errors or omissions in these forms can lead to CRO rejections or processing delays.
• Banking Restrictions for Non-Residents: Opening a business bank account in Ireland from Germany is one of the most common hurdles. Most Irish banks require at least one in-person verification meeting for new corporate clients.
• High Compliance and Maintenance Costs: The cost of incorporating a company in Ireland from Germany extends beyond initial registration. Maintaining compliance involves ongoing expenses for accounting and annual return filings, registered office and company secretary services, tax registration and professional advisory fees, and more.

How Commenda Helps with Incorporation in Ireland from Germany

Understanding the legal and administrative steps to register a company in Ireland from Germany can be complex, especially when dealing with Irish corporate law, local tax regulations, and cross-border banking. That’s where Commenda comes in.

With deep expertise in international company formation, Commenda simplifies every stage of the process, ensuring your Irish business is set up correctly.

• End-to-End Incorporation Support: Commenda’s specialists handle the entire process of how to incorporate a company in Ireland from Germany. You’ll have a dedicated incorporation advisor guiding you through each step, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
• Registered Agent and Irish Office Address: Commenda provides a fully compliant registered agent service. This service helps non-resident entrepreneurs establish immediate credibility and compliance without needing a physical presence in Ireland.
• Documentation and Legal Compliance: With Commenda’s proactive compliance management, you avoid late filing penalties and administrative lapses.
• Business Banking and Financial Setup: Commenda works with trusted Irish and European banking partners to streamline the process. This ensures your business can start operations smoothly, even without an in-person visit.

Whether you’re establishing a subsidiary, branch, or holding company, book a consultation with Commenda today to start your incorporation journey.

Conclusion

Registering a company in Ireland from Germany is a strategic and rewarding move for entrepreneurs aiming to access the EU market, use Ireland’s business-friendly tax regime, and operate within an English-speaking jurisdiction. 

With Commenda, you gain a trusted partner experienced in cross-border incorporation, ensuring every step. Whether you’re establishing your first Irish entity or expanding an existing German business, Commenda simplifies the process and minimizes risk.

Book a consultation with Commenda today and take the next step toward your European business expansion. 

FAQs

1. Can I register a company in Ireland from Germany without visiting?

Yes, German entrepreneurs can register a company in Ireland remotely. Most steps, including document submission and payment, can be completed online. However, certain banks may require an in-person visit for business account verification.

2. Which business structures are available to German citizens in Ireland?

German citizens can register several business types in Ireland, including a Private Limited Company (LTD), Public Limited Company (PLC), or a Branch Office of an existing German entity. The Private Limited Company is the most common choice for foreign-owned businesses due to its flexibility and limited liability.

3. How much does it cost to incorporate in Ireland from Germany?

The cost of incorporating a company in Ireland from Germany typically ranges from €300 to €1,000, depending on the services used. This includes the Companies Registration Office (CRO) filing fee, name reservation, registered agent services, and professional/legal fees.

4. Do I need a local partner or director in Ireland?

No, you don’t need a local partner, but you must appoint at least one director who is an EEA resident. Since Germany is part of the EEA, German nationals can serve as directors without additional requirements.

5. Can I open an Irish business bank account from Germany?

Yes, but it can be challenging. Traditional banks may require directors to visit Ireland for identity verification. Alternatively, digital banking solutions like Wise, Revolut Business, or Payoneer provide remote account setup options for international entrepreneurs.

6. Does registering a company in Ireland give me a work visa?

No, incorporation alone does not grant residency or a work visa. Entrepreneurs planning to live or work in Ireland must apply for the appropriate Business Permission or Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) visa.

7. What are the annual compliance requirements in Ireland?

Irish companies must file an annual return with the CRO, submit corporation tax returns, maintain accounting records, and renew registered agent or office details annually. Non-compliance can result in fines or a company strike-off.

8. LLC vs Corporation in Ireland: Which is better for German entrepreneurs?

In Ireland, the Private Limited Company (LTD) is equivalent to an LLC and is ideal for small to medium-sized German businesses seeking flexibility and limited liability. A Public Limited Company (PLC) suits larger enterprises planning to raise public capital.