In 2024, Ireland became one of the three global leaders in fintech sector growth, and its 12.5% corporate tax rate is one of the lowest in Europe. According to World Bank Doing Business, Ireland ranks in the top 5 countries for ease of doing business, and venture investments in fintech here grew by 40% year-on-year. But why do most international fintech startups choose Ireland to register a company? And how can you avoid the mistakes that annually lead to loss of licences and account freezes?
If you are looking for a jurisdiction to scale your business, minimize tax burden and quickly enter the EU market – this guide will give you not only answers, but also concrete steps tested in practice by the COREDO team. Read to the end: you will learn how to use tax incentives, obtain grants up to €320 000 and ensure full compliance with the requirements of the Central Bank of Ireland.
Why Ireland is the best jurisdiction for fintech
Why is Ireland considered the optimal jurisdiction for registering a fintech company? It’s not only a matter of a favorable tax rate, but also the result of a supportive financial and legal environment, integration into the EU market, and the country’s reputation as an international fintech hub.
Let’s look at the key advantages that make Ireland an attractive choice for fintech businesses, starting with the corporate tax rate of 12.5% as a significant competitive advantage.
Ireland’s 12.5% corporate tax as an advantage
Ireland’s corporate tax — 12.5%: recognized as one of the most attractive for technology and fintech companies in Europe. Unlike Germany (up to 30%), France (25%) or Luxembourg (24.94%), the tax burden here is minimal, and additional tax incentives are available for innovative companies. At COREDO we have repeatedly calculated ROI for fintech startups: with turnover of €1 million, tax savings compared to other EU countries can reach €100,000 annually.
For companies investing in R&D or intellectual property, the tax rate can be reduced to 6.25% under the Knowledge Development Box regime. This approach allows optimizing corporate taxation in Ireland and increasing net profit, which is critical for venture projects and scaling the business.
Access to the EU market from Ireland
Company registration in Ireland automatically opens access to the EU market and allows using the passporting mechanism for financial services. This means that an Irish fintech license grants the right to provide services in all EU countries without additional permits. COREDO’s practice confirms: this approach accelerates market entry and reduces legal risks.
Ireland’s EU membership provides protection of intellectual property, unified compliance standards, and the possibility of integration with European payment systems. EU legislation and its influence on fintech companies in Ireland are not only requirements but also strategic advantages for international business.
startup support in the innovation ecosystem
Ireland: a recognized hub for fintech startups thanks to strong support from IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland and SEAI Grants. The Enterprise Ireland program offers grants, mentoring and access to venture capital, and tax incentives for startups reach €320,000 in the first two years of operation. The COREDO team has implemented projects where grants covered up to 50% of the costs of developing a fintech product.
The SURE program for entrepreneurs allows returning up to 41% of investments in the business through tax deductions. IDA Ireland grants for technology companies are available not only to residents but also to companies with remote management, which is especially relevant for international teams.
Tax incentives and regimes for fintech in Ireland
tax incentives and regimes for fintech companies in Ireland open up wide opportunities for effective tax planning and fostering innovation. Ireland offers special mechanisms, reduced rates and unique tax initiatives that make it one of the most attractive jurisdictions for fintech business. Let’s consider the key preferential tax regimes that benefit technological and innovative companies.
KDB tax regime: rate 6.25%
Knowledge Development Box (KDB): a unique tax regime that allows reducing the profit tax rate on income from intellectual property to 6.25%. For fintech companies this means that income from patents, proprietary code or algorithms developed in Ireland is taxed at a reduced rate. A solution developed by COREDO for one client enabled qualifying a fintech product under Ireland’s Intellectual Property Law using the Patents Act 1992 and the Trade Marks Act 1996, which yielded savings of more than €200,000 per year.
To obtain the relief it is necessary to confirm the creation and development of the IP specifically in Ireland, and to maintain separate accounting of income. COREDO’s practice shows that preliminary legal due diligence and proper structuring of R&D processes are the key to successful application of the KDB.
R&D tax credits: how to get them?
A fintech company in Ireland can obtain an R&D tax credit equal to 25% of qualifying research and development expenditures. This allows reducing the tax base and obtaining a refund for product development. An example from COREDO’s practice: a fintech startup with €400,000 in development costs received a tax benefit of €100,000, which allowed it to accelerate its market entry and attract additional investors.
To optimize taxes it is important to properly document expenses and meet the qualification criteria. Registering a fintech company in Ireland with a focus on R&D opens access to additional grants and support from government agencies.
International double taxation treaties
Ireland has concluded more than 70 international Double Taxation Agreements (DTAs), which makes it possible to minimize tax risks when working with foreign partners and investors. For non-resident companies this means protection from double taxation and the possibility of effective tax planning for international businesses.
The COREDO team integrates DTAs into the market entry strategy, which is especially important for fintech companies working with clients and partners from Asia and the CIS.
Registration of a fintech company in Ireland
Registration of a fintech company in Ireland: this is a multi-stage process where each step requires a careful approach and understanding of the nuances of local legislation and the business environment. In this step-by-step guide we will examine in detail the key stages of creating a fintech business, starting with choosing the optimal company structure and the subsequent preparation of documents.
Choosing a company structure for fintech in Ireland
The right choice of structure is the basis for successful company registration in Ireland. The most popular options for fintech are:
| Structure | Minimum capital | Director requirements | Tax advantages | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Private Company Limited by Shares | €1 | Minimum 1 director (may be non-resident) | Full access to all regimes | Operational fintech companies |
| Limited Partnership (LLP) | Not required | Not required | Tax benefits for investors | Venture funds, investment projects |
COREDO’s practice shows: for payment systems and crypto fintech the optimal form is Private Company Limited by Shares, and for venture funds: LLP.
company registration in Ireland: documents and requirements
Company registration in Ireland can be done remotely via the CRO (Companies Registration Office) online portal. Main checklist of documents:
- Articles of association
- KYC documents of founders and directors
- Proof of address
- Qualified Electronic Signature for account opening
Registration timeframe – no more than 3 working days. The solution developed by COREDO allows completing all stages remotely, including identification via digital signature and remote account opening.
Requirements for resident directors and company management
Central Bank of Ireland (CBI) imposes requirements on resident directors and the “Mind & Management” concept. For fintech companies at least one resident director is required or placement of key servers in Ireland. In some cases COREDO’s team organized remote management while complying with all CBI requirements, including server placement and corporate reporting.
Alternative solutions include appointing a nominee director or using professional management services.
Account opening and fintech solutions
You can open an account at an Irish bank either traditionally or through fintech providers. For this you will need:
- KYC documents
- Qualified Electronic Signature
- Proof of company registration
Account activation timeframe: 5-10 working days. For remote account opening COREDO’s team recommends using fintech platforms integrated with European banks.
Licensing of fintech companies in Ireland
Licensing and regulation of fintech companies in Ireland are built on a combination of European directives and national legislation, providing strict oversight by the Central Bank of Ireland (CBI). Before launching a fintech business, companies need to take into account the CBI’s requirements, which cover capital, structure, compliance and risk management procedures, as well as mandatory registration and adherence to AML/KYC standards.
Central Bank of Ireland requirements for fintech companies
The CBI is the main regulator of the fintech sector. To obtain a fintech license in Ireland, you must:
- Prepare a business plan describing corporate risk management processes
- Appoint a compliance officer
- Implement AML/KYC procedures
The authorization process takes from 30 to 90 days. COREDO’s experience confirms: preliminary preparation of documents and the implementation of compliance processes speed up obtaining a license and reduce the risk of refusal.
KYC and AML requirements for fintech companies
KYC (Know Your Customer) and AML (Anti-Money Laundering) standards: mandatory for all fintech companies. For client identification, digital identification (eID), automated verification systems and integration with international databases are used.
The COREDO team implements KYC/AML processes taking into account EU and CBI requirements, ensuring legal compliance and protection from sanctions.
Licensing of virtual asset providers and crypto companies
Registration of a virtual asset service provider in Ireland requires a separate license from the CBI. Specifics:
- Confirmation of the origin of funds
- Implementation of AML policies
- Hosting servers in Ireland
Advantages of registering a company for crypto fintech in Ireland include access to the European market, protection of intellectual property and the ability to work with international investors. An EMI (Electronic Money Institution) license opens additional opportunities to scale the business.
Grants for fintech startups in Ireland
Financial support and grants play a key role in the development of fintech startups in Ireland, creating favorable conditions for launching and scaling innovative projects. Government agencies actively assist companies by offering targeted funding programs and grant support.
IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland grants
IDA Ireland provides grants for job creation and the development of R&D projects. Enterprise Ireland offers support and mentoring, as well as early-stage funding. To obtain a grant you need to:
- Prepare a business plan
- Demonstrate the project’s innovation
- Meet the selection criteria
The COREDO team has assisted fintech startups at all stages of obtaining grants, including document preparation and interaction with government agencies.
Tax incentives for startups up to €320 000
The tax incentive program for startups in Ireland allows receiving up to €320 000 in relief over the first two years and €250 000 in the third year. To qualify, you must carry out operational activities and create jobs.
A solution implemented by COREDO for one client allowed covering 40% of startup costs through tax benefits.
SEAI energy efficiency grants program
SEAI Grants – grants for the implementation of energy-saving technologies and digital transformation of infrastructure. For fintech companies, this is an opportunity to reduce operating costs and increase business resilience.
COREDO supports clients at all stages of the application process, including infrastructure audits and preparation of technical documentation.
Strategy and ROI of registration in Ireland
The strategic advantages and ROI of registration in Ireland are directly linked to a stable business environment, competitive taxation, and access to European markets. Choosing this jurisdiction not only reduces costs but also strengthens the company’s position internationally, which is important for long-term return on investment.
Ireland’s Index of Economic Freedom
Ireland ranks 3rd in the Index of Economic Freedom (2023) and 2nd in Europe for human development (2022). For investors, this means stability, transparency, and a high level of business protection.
Our experience at COREDO has shown that a high ease-of-doing-business ranking (Doing Business ranking) directly affects the speed of scaling and attracting investment.
Fintech venture funding in Ireland
Ireland is one of the leaders in attracting venture capital to the fintech sector. Tax advantages for investment funds and a developed ecosystem allow businesses to scale without additional legal barriers.
COREDO advises on attracting venture financing, structuring funds, and optimizing tax burden.
Human capital and business infrastructure of Ireland
A high level of education, the availability of qualified specialists, and developed business infrastructure make Ireland an ideal place for the growth of fintech companies. Digital transformation and innovation in Ireland are supported at the government level, which accelerates the development of startups.
Risks, limitations and recommendations
risk management and compliance are key elements of a sustainable business, allowing the identification of potential threats, adherence to limitations and minimization of the consequences of breaches. Below are the main requirements that will help effectively organize a risk management and compliance system in the company.
Requirements for risk management and compliance
Main risks when registering a fintech company: non‑compliance with CBI requirements, errors in company structure and insufficient attention to AML/KYC. Reporting requirements for fintech companies in Ireland include an annual audit, maintaining registers and timely submission of documents.
COREDO recommends preparing compliance and reporting processes in advance to avoid fines and account freezes.
Registration of non-resident companies
For companies with remote management in Ireland the “Mind & Management” requirement applies — having a resident director or locating key servers in the country. Alternative solutions include appointing professional managers and integrating with local service providers.
How to avoid mistakes when registering
Common mistakes: choosing the wrong structure, insufficient document preparation, ignoring AML/KYC and failing to meet CBI requirements. The solution developed by COREDO includes a preliminary audit, legal review and support at all stages of registration.
Practical steps and conclusions
Practical steps and key takeaways are the foundation of a successful start for every entrepreneur. In this section we will outline a clear course of action: from shaping the idea to obtaining documents, so you can go through the registration process as consciously as possible and without unnecessary mistakes.
Checklist: from idea to registration for entrepreneurs
Checkpoints: choosing a structure, preparing documents, registration with the CRO, opening an account, obtaining a license.
| Stage | Description | Timeline | Responsible person |
|---|---|---|---|
| Choosing a structure | Determine company type (Ltd, LLP) | 1-2 days | Founder/consultant |
| Preparing documents | Collect KYC documents, articles of association | 3-5 days | Founder |
| Registration with the CRO | Submit an application via the online portal | 3 working days | Consultant/lawyer |
| Opening an account | Choose a bank, submit an application | 5-10 days | company director |
| Licensing (if required) | Submit an application to the CBI | 30-90 days | Director/compliance officer |
Recommendations for types of fintech companies
- payment systems: Private Company Limited by Shares, focus on AML/KYC and EMI licenses.
- Crypto companies: separate CBI license, hosting servers in Ireland, emphasis on AML.
- Investment funds: LLP, tax preferences for investors, venture financing.
- R&D centers: use of tax credits and the Knowledge Development Box.
- Companies with remote management: professional managers, digital identification, remote registration.
Key conclusions and recommendations
Ireland offers a unique combination of low taxes (12.5%), access to the EU market and a favorable regulatory climate, which makes it an optimal choice for fintech startups.
Tax regimes — the Knowledge Development Box (6.25%) and R&D tax credits (25%) — can reduce the effective tax burden to 3-5%, which is critical for scaling.
The CBI’s “Mind & Management” requirement demands either a resident director or locating key servers in Ireland: this should be considered when planning the structure.
Financial support (IDA Ireland grants, tax incentives up to €320,000) can cover 30-50% of startup costs for technology companies.
Actionable Advice:
- Consult a lawyer and a tax advisor before registration
- Choose a company structure depending on the type of business and sources of funding
- Start the document preparation process 2-3 weeks before the planned registration
- Prepare AML/KYC processes in parallel with registration
- Explore the possibility of obtaining grants and tax benefits before registration
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is Ireland considered the best jurisdiction to register a fintech company?
Due to low corporate tax, access to the EU market, a developed ecosystem, and startup support.
What tax advantages does Ireland offer to fintech startups?
12.5% rate, Knowledge Development Box regime (6.25%), R&D tax credits (25%), tax incentives up to €320 000.
How to register a fintech company in Ireland remotely and what documents are required?
Via the CRO, using a digital signature; articles of association, KYC documents, proof of address are required.
What are the Central Bank of Ireland’s requirements for fintech companies?
Presence of a resident director or local server hosting, implementation of AML/KYC, a business plan, compliance procedures.
What tax reliefs exist for companies conducting R&D in Ireland?
A 25% tax credit on qualifying expenditures, grants from IDA Ireland, the Knowledge Development Box regime.
What risks and limitations are associated with registering a fintech company in Ireland?
compliance requirements, the need for a resident director, server hosting, strict oversight by the CBI.
How to obtain a license as a virtual asset provider in Ireland?
Submit an application to the CBI, implement AML/KYC, host servers, pass source-of-funds checks.
What opportunities for scaling a business does registration in Ireland provide?
Access to the EU market, venture funding, government grants, developed business infrastructure.
Resources for work
- Official website of the CRO (Companies Registration Office)
- Central Bank of Ireland (CBI)
- IDA Ireland: grants and support
- Enterprise Ireland: mentoring and funding
- Document templates for company registration
- contact details for COREDO legal and tax advisors
Success stories
Case 1: A fintech startup registered with COREDO received an IDA Ireland grant of €150,000, reduced its tax burden to 6.25% and entered the EU market within 6 months.
Case 2: A crypto company structured as a Private Company Limited by Shares obtained an EMI license and raised €2 million in venture funding using R&D tax credits.
If you plan to scale a fintech business: Ireland offers not just attractive conditions, but a strategic platform for growth. Solutions developed by COREDO make it possible to go from idea to entering the European market quickly, transparently, and with maximum support at every stage.