Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD) in Ireland — Import / Export & Trading Formation Guide
Choose a jurisdiction with strong logistics infrastructure, favorable customs agreements, and access to major trade blocs (like the EU or US). Consider VAT deferral schemes and free trade zones.
Last verified: June 12, 2026
Corporate Tax
12.5%
State Tax
0.0%
Formation Cost
$58
Annual Fee
$23
Forming a Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD) in Ireland as a Import / Export & Trading means a total tax burden of 12.5% and an official formation cost of $58. The minimum capital requirement is 1 EUR. Standard formation takes 5-10 business days, or 1-3 business days expedited. No local director is required; the process can be managed remotely. This guide covers the steps, tax breakdown, banking options, and compliance requirements — all from verified data.
First-year total cost
≈ $3,677
Ongoing (per year)
≈ $1,522
Why Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD) for Import / Export & Trading?
A business model focused on sourcing goods from one country and selling them in another. Success relies heavily on supply chain efficiency, customs compliance, and navigating international trade tariffs.
Ideal for
- Physical product brands
- Wholesalers and distributors
- Dropshippers scaling to bulk inventory
- Cross-border B2B traders
Challenges to watch
- Complex customs and import duties
- High shipping and logistics costs
- Cash flow management due to inventory delays
- Regulatory compliance across multiple jurisdictions
Key decision criteria
- Proximity to major ports or logistics hubs
- Availability of Free Trade Zones (FTZs)
- VAT and sales tax registration requirements (e.g., EORI in the EU)
- Double taxation treaties between sourcing and selling countries
Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD) formation requirements
Minimum capital
1 EUR
Standard timeline
5-10 business days
Expedited timeline
1-3 business days
Local director
Not required
Registered office
Virtual office allowed
Notarization
Required
At least one EEA-resident director is required. If none, the company must secure a Section 137 Non-Resident Director Bond (€25,000 coverage) costing around €1,500-€2,100 for two years.
Estimated breakdown (based on avg. $1,000,000 revenue)
Simulate with your own revenue →
VAT / Sales Tax
Standard rate 23%. Registration threshold: 42,500 EUR. Non-established businesses supplying digital services to Irish consumers must register for VAT with no threshold, or use the EU One-Stop Shop (OSS) scheme.
Banking & payments for Import / Export & Trading
Opening a traditional bank account in Ireland is notoriously difficult for non-resident founders due to strict AML regulations requiring face-to-face meetings and proof of local substance. Most international entrepreneurs rely on fintech solutions like Revolut Business or Wise, which offer fully remote onboarding and multi-currency support.
Supported payment gateways
Remote-friendly accounts
Revolut Business
Highly recommended for remote founders. Offers quick online setup, multi-currency accounts, and physical/virtual corporate cards.
Wise
Excellent for international startups needing local account details in EUR, GBP, and USD with low FX fees.
Fire
An Irish fintech providing dual EUR and GBP accounts. Great alternative for UK-Ireland cross-border businesses.
Ireland incentives & advantages
R&D Tax Credit
35% credit on R&D costs, which can be used to reduce corporation tax or refunded in cash instalments.
Start-Up Relief for Entrepreneurs (SURE)
Refund of up to 41% of the capital invested, based on income tax paid in the previous four years.
Enterprise Ireland & LEO Grants
Grants ranging from €15,000 (Feasibility) up to €150,000+ (Priming/HPSU), often requiring matched funding.
Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD) formation steps
Choose a unique company name and verify its availability with the Companies Registration Office (CRO).
Determine the company structure, including authorized share capital (typically €100) and issued shares (typically €1).
Appoint at least one EEA-resident director, or secure a Section 137 Non-Resident Director Bond if all directors reside outside the EEA.
Secure a registered office address in Ireland (virtual offices with mail forwarding are permitted, PO Boxes are not).
Prepare and sign the Company Constitution and Form A1. Non-residents without an Irish PPSN must also submit a notarized Form VIF.
Submit the incorporation documents to the CRO and pay the €50 statutory filing fee (usually handled by a formation agent).
Register the company for Corporation Tax, and if applicable, VAT and PAYE/PRSI with the Revenue Commissioners.
File the Register of Beneficial Ownership (RBO) within 5 months of incorporation to avoid criminal penalties.
Import / Export & Trading FAQ
Do I need a company in the country I am importing to?
Not always. You can often act as a Non-Resident Importer (NRI), but having a local entity can simplify customs, VAT registration, and local banking.
What is an EORI number and do I need one?
An Economic Operators Registration and Identification (EORI) number is required for businesses importing or exporting goods into or out of the European Union.
Should I incorporate in a Free Trade Zone (FTZ)?
FTZs offer tax exemptions and simplified customs procedures, making them ideal if you plan to re-export goods without them entering the local domestic market.
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Related guides
Complete Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD) guide
Taxes, requirements, banking, compliance
Private Company Limited by Shares (LTD) cost calculator
One-time and annual cost breakdown
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