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Ireland

Ireland offers a unique blend of innovation, quality of life, and economic opportunity within the European Union.

Ireland

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12.5% Corporate Tax

Trading income taxed at 12.5%; 25% rate applies to passive/non‑trading income; 15% minimum effective rate for in‑scope groups.

Ireland’s headline 12.5% trading rate remains, with a 15% minimum for large multinationals under Pillar Two complementing the regime’s stability.

32nd in Tax Competitiveness

International Tax Competitiveness Index 2024.

A strong corporate framework and extensive treaty network support competitiveness, though structural complexities shape the overall ranking

25% R&D Tax Credit

A tax credit on qualifying research & development expenditure.

Ireland strongly incentivises innovation with a generous 30% tax credit for research and development, supporting companies at the forefront of technology and science.

71% Achievement on SNS #1: Fast Startup Score

Efficiency of starting a business and administrative support. 2024.

With a top score for startup efficiency, Ireland provides a highly supportive and streamlined digital environment, making it exceptionally easy to launch a new business.

2.3% GDP Growth in 2025

Annual real GDP growth rate forecast. 2025.

Ireland's dynamic, export-driven economy is projected to continue its strong growth trajectory, solidifying its position as one of Europe's top-performing nations.

67% on SNS #6: Access to Finance Score

Availability of public and private funding for startups. 2024.

Ireland's mature and globally connected financial ecosystem provides startups with outstanding access to venture capital and a wide range of funding opportunities.

24th on Ease of Doing Business Ranking

With strengths in paying taxes and starting a business within a transparent, common‑law framework

Ireland is globally recognized as one of the best places to do business, with a transparent, common-law legal system and a pro-business regulatory environment.

€40.20/hr Labour Cost

Hourly labour costs reflects a highly skilled, productive, and multilingual workforce. 2025.

Ireland's labour costs reflect its highly productive, skilled, and multilingual workforce, which is a key driver of its knowledge-based economy.

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40% Top Personal Income Tax Rate

Progressive rates of 20% and 40%, plus social security charges. 2025.

Ireland's personal tax system is structured to fund its extensive public services, with two main rates ensuring a progressive contribution from all earners.

22nd in European Health Index

Overall measure of national health system performance.

Ireland's healthcare system provides high-quality care, and the country is committed to improving access and efficiency through ongoing investment and reforms.

15th on Global Cost of Living Rank

Measures relative costs of goods and services. 2025.

Ireland's high cost of living is reflective of its dynamic, high-income economy, offering residents a vibrant lifestyle with excellent career opportunities.

15th on Global Happiness Rank

Evaluates national wellbeing and overall life satisfaction. 2025.

Renowned for its friendly culture and strong sense of community, Ireland consistently ranks among the happiest nations, offering a high quality of life.

2nd in Global Security Index

Assesses national peacefulness, safety, and security levels. 2025.

As the second most peaceful country in the world, Ireland offers an exceptionally safe and stable society, making it an ideal place to live and work.

79.8% Working-Age Employment Rate

Percentage of population aged 20-64 that is employed. 2024.

With a robust and growing employment rate, Ireland's flexible labour market provides extensive opportunities for its young, educated, and skilled workforce.

75% on Digital First Score

Measures the digital-by-default availability of key public services. 2024.

A leader in digital government, Ireland offers comprehensive and user-friendly online services, making interactions with public bodies seamless and efficient.

1.3% Annual Inflation Rate

Measures the change in consumer prices over time. 2025.

With inflation forecast to be low and stable, Ireland's economy provides a predictable financial environment that supports both consumer confidence and business planning.

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Embassies and Consulates

Ireland has embassies and consulates worldwide that offer visa services and assistance to its citizens abroad. A current list of these missions is available on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website.

Entry for EU Citizens

EU/EEA/Swiss A citizens may enter with a valid passport or national ID; after 3 months they must work, be self‑employed or studying, or have sufficient resources and healthcare, with permanent residence after 5 years

Entry for Non-EU Citizens

Non‑EU nationals require a valid passport; many need a short‑stay “C” visa for visits up to 90 days, while stays over 90 days require a long‑stay “D” visa and registration for an Irish Residence Permit.

Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP)

Ireland’s Start‑up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) offers residence (Stamp 4) for innovative founders, requiring an approved plan and at least €50K in funding; applications are reviewed quarterly.

Immigrant Investor Programme (IIP)

A pathway for non-EEA nationals on the basis of long-term investment of a sum of money in a project that has been approved for that purpose by the Department of Justice and other Government stakeholders.

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