Business Registration Process in Cork
Step-by-step process for registering your business in Cork, including local requirements and supports.
1
Choose Business Structure
- •Sole Trader - Simplest for individuals
- •Partnership - For multiple owners
- •Limited Company - Most popular for growth
- •DAC/PLC - For larger enterprises
2
Register with CRO
- •Companies Registration Office filing
- •Form A1 for new companies
- •Constitution and compliance
- •Director appointments
3
Revenue Registration
- •Tax registration (Form TR1/TR2)
- •PAYE/PRSI for employees
- •VAT registration if required
- •ROS online access setup
4
Insurance & Compliance
- •Employer's Liability Insurance
- •Public Liability Insurance
- •Professional Indemnity if applicable
- •Data protection compliance (GDPR)
5
Business Licenses
- •Trading licenses (sector-specific)
- •Planning permissions if required
- •Food business registration
- •Waste collection permits
6
Cork Local Requirements
- •Cork City/County Council registration
- •Shop front/signage permits
- •Fire safety certificates
- •Commercial rates registration
Cork Business Support Services
Local and regional supports available to Cork entrepreneurs and businesses.
Local Enterprise Office Cork
Services Available:
- • Business plan development
- • Start-up grants up to €15,000
- • Mentoring and training
- • Feasibility study grants
Contact: Cork City Hall, Anglesea Street
Cork Chamber of Commerce
Business Benefits:
- • Networking opportunities
- • Business development support
- • Export assistance
- • Policy advocacy
Member benefits and events
UCC Innovation & Research
Tech Supports:
- • Technology transfer
- • R&D partnerships
- • Talent access
- • Innovation funding
University-industry collaboration
Key Business Sectors in Cork
Cork's diverse economy offers opportunities across multiple growing sectors.
Established Sectors
Pharmaceuticals
- • Major global companies present
- • Supply chain opportunities
- • Life sciences ecosystem
- • Research collaborations
Technology
- • Software development
- • Fintech and cybersecurity
- • Gaming and digital media
- • Enterprise solutions
Growing Opportunities
Tourism & Hospitality
- • Wild Atlantic Way gateway
- • Food and beverage tourism
- • Business tourism
- • Cultural attractions
Creative Industries
- • Film and television
- • Music and performing arts
- • Design and architecture
- • Digital content creation
Cork Business Registration Checklist
Complete checklist for starting your business in Cork successfully.
Essential Steps
Legal & Compliance
- ✓Choose and register business name
- ✓Select appropriate business structure
- ✓Register with Companies Registration Office
- ✓Obtain tax number from Revenue
- ✓Register for VAT if threshold exceeded
Local Requirements
- ✓Register with Cork City/County Council
- ✓Obtain required business licenses
- ✓Secure appropriate insurance coverage
- ✓Setup business bank account
- ✓Consider Local Enterprise Office supports
Start Your Cork Business Journey Today
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