About This Guide
A comprehensive practical reference for international entrepreneurs, investors and advisers considering Ireland as a business jurisdiction. Covers company formation, legal structures, corporation tax, VAT, banking, employment, immigration, intellectual property, regulated activities and Ireland's role as a European business base.
Ireland occupies a distinctive position in the international business landscape: the eurozone's principal English-speaking common-law jurisdiction, a full EU and eurozone member, and home to the European headquarters of many of the world's largest technology, pharmaceutical and financial services companies. For international businesses seeking a credible, well-regulated gateway to European markets, Ireland offers genuine and enduring advantages — but only to those who approach it correctly. The Coutts Guide to Ireland is a practical, authoritative reference for international entrepreneurs, company owners, investors and professional advisers considering establishing or maintaining a business presence in Ireland. It covers every principal dimension of Irish business establishment: choosing the right legal structure, incorporating through the CRO, understanding corporation tax and VAT, navigating banking onboarding, employing people, managing immigration considerations, protecting intellectual property and complying with Irish regulatory requirements. Written with candour about both Ireland's strengths and its limitations, this guide is designed to ensure you ask the right questions before committing.