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An Irish company with non-EEA directors

Every Irish company needs at least one EEA-resident director. The alternative is a non-resident director bond from a bank or insurer.

Facts checked against official sources on 27 September 2026

The official rules that apply

  • Section 137 of the Companies Act 2014 requires every company to have at least one EEA-resident director; failure is a criminal offence.
  • The requirement does not apply to a company holding a bond in the prescribed form to the value of €25,000.
  • The bond must be valid for at least two years and the surety must be a bank, building society, insurance company or credit institution.

Registration basics in Ireland

Company typePrivate company limited by shares (LTD)
RegistryCompanies Registration Office (CRO)
Government filing fee€50 — €50 filed online (Form A1 via CORE), €100 on paper.
Registration timeThe CRO aims for 10 working days online (its charter says 15); the Fé Phráinn scheme aims for 5.
Resident directorAt least one EEA-resident director, unless the company holds a €25,000 bond valid for at least two years.
Visit, notary or lawyerOnline via CORE; no notary requirement found.
Registered addressThe registered office must be a physical location in Ireland. The CRO does not address virtual offices.
Minimum capitalNot stated
Corporate tax12.5% on trading income; 25% on non-trading income such as rent or investment income.
Every yearAnnual return and financial statements to the CRO (not re-verified in this check).

Full step-by-step guide: company registration in Ireland.

Sources

  • cro.ie, checked 27 September 2026
  • cro.ie, checked 27 September 2026
  • cro.ie, checked 27 September 2026
FAQ · 3 questions

Frequently asked questions

Yes, with a condition on the director’s residence; a licensed provider will explain the accepted alternatives. No visit is required.

The registry does not say. Ask the provider to confirm the registry accepts the address before you pay.

No. We compare the official requirements and, if you ask, introduce you to one licensed provider in Ireland. The provider handles the filing and gives legal or tax advice where needed.