What you need to know about Setting-up a business in Ireland

Ireland promotes business growth and entrepreneurship with three different schemes for setting up your own business within its borders. If it has always been your dream to set up your business, then Ireland might be the place for you. The country is experiencing big economical growth and Ireland’s tax system has very good rates for businesses.

If you are a European Economic Area or Swiss national, then you have no restrictions on coming to Ireland and setting up your own business or becoming self-employed. Simply move over and get started! However, non-EEA citizens must first seek the appropriate permissions to relocate to the country for their business purposes. There are three government schemes for which you can apply to be granted an entrepreneurial work visa, and the one you choose will depend on your situation and type of business.

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Considering working in Ireland, here is what you need to know

If you would like to work in Ireland and are not a citizen of the EU or European Economic Area, then you will need to apply for a work visa. There are four main types of employment permits: General Employment Permit (formerly Work Permit), Critical Skills Employment Permit (formerly Green Card), Dependent/Partner/Spouse Employment Permit, and Reactivation Permit.

There are also five more that are more specific, but which may apply to your circumstances. Ireland also has a Working Holiday Visa programme for a few reciprocal nationalities.

EU and European Economic Area citizens
Citizens from the EU and the European Economic Area do not need any visas or work permits to live and work in Ireland. No job offer or work contract is needed prior to arrival in Ireland, however after the first three months you will either need a job or proof of enough funds to support yourself and any dependents.

EU countries are those that are members of the Euro