Value-Added Tax (VAT) is a crucial part of doing business in Ireland. Whether you're a local startup or an international company looking to expand into the Irish market, understanding when and how to register for VAT is essential for staying compliant and optimizing your tax structure. Chern & Co, a trusted accountancy and business advisory firm based in Dublin, provides expert guidance to make the VAT registration Ireland process smooth and hassle-free.

What is VAT and Who Needs to Register?

VAT is a tax on the consumption of goods and services, levied at each stage of the supply chain. In Ireland, the standard VAT rate is 23%, though reduced rates of 13.5%, 9%, and 0% apply to certain goods and services.

You must register for VAT in Ireland if:

  • Your annual turnover exceeds €37,500 for services or €75,000 for goods.
  • You receive goods or services from outside Ireland and use them for business.
  • You distance-sell goods to Irish consumers and exceed the €10,000 threshold (EU-based sellers).
  • You're an EU business with no Irish presence but you sell into Ireland.
  • You wish to reclaim Irish VAT as a non-resident business.

Even if your turnover is below the threshold, voluntary VAT registration is allowed and sometimes recommended — especially for startups expecting to grow quickly or those with significant upfront expenses, as it enables reclaiming VAT on business costs.

The VAT Registration Process in Ireland

Registering for VAT in Ireland involves several steps and can vary depending on whether your business is resident or non-resident. The process generally includes:

Preparing Required Documentation

You'll need to submit:

  • Business identification details
  • Proof of trading activity in Ireland
  • Details of business directors/shareholders
  • Contracts, invoices, or letters of intent
  1. Completing the VAT Registration Application

    VAT registration in Ireland is done through Revenue's ROS (Revenue Online Service). Depending on your company's circumstances, you may be required to fill out different forms, such as TR1 (for individuals, partnerships, and trusts) or TR2 (for companies).
  2. Verification by Irish Revenue

    Revenue may request additional documentation or proof of trade. This step can take a few weeks, and applications lacking sufficient detail or supporting documentation may be rejected.

This is where Chern & Co proves invaluable. Their team of experienced accountants and tax advisors work directly with Revenue and handle the entire VAT registration process on behalf of clients. They help ensure your application is fully compliant and increase the chances of fast approval.

Why Choose Chern & Co?

Chern & Co has built a strong reputation in Ireland for helping businesses of all sizes with company formation, tax registration, and ongoing compliance. Here's what makes them stand out:

  • Tailored Advice: They assess your unique business needs and provide custom solutions.
  • Expertise with Non-Resident Clients: Chern & Co specializes in assisting foreign companies and entrepreneurs who want to operate in Ireland but are unfamiliar with the local tax system.
  • Full-Service Support: From initial consultation to filing VAT returns, they manage everything, giving you peace of mind.
  • Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees — just clear, upfront costs for VAT registration and other services.

After VAT Registration: Your Responsibilities

Once registered, you'll receive a VAT number and will be required to:

  • File VAT returns (usually bi-monthly or quarterly)
  • Maintain proper VAT invoices and records
  • Pay VAT owed to Revenue or claim VAT refunds
  • Keep detailed records for at least six years

Non-compliance can result in penalties, audits, or delays in reclaiming VAT, so it's important to stay on top of your obligations. Chern & Co also offers ongoing VAT return filing and tax advisory services, making them a one-stop solution for businesses trading in Ireland.