Ireland

Tax advantages

• Corporate tax rate of 12.5% on trading income, one of the lowest in the EU.
• R&D tax credit of 25% on qualifying expenditures.
• Participation exemption on dividends and capital gains from qualifying subsidiaries.
• No withholding tax on certain interest and royalty payments under domestic law and treaties.
• Section 110 SPVs allow tax-efficient structuring of asset-backed securities and debt.

Tax disadvantages

• Personal income tax rates are progressive up to 40%, with a high effective tax burden on high earners.
• Capital gains tax at 33% and capital acquisitions tax (inheritance) at 33% with limited reliefs.
• Stamp duty on property transfers up to 7.5% for non-residential property.

Residency advantages

• No minimum physical presence requirement for non-domiciled residents; remittance basis of taxation for foreign income and gains.
• Access to the EU single market and the Common Travel Area with the UK.
• Strong IP regime with patent box and knowledge development box (6.25% effective rate).
• High-quality education system and English-speaking environment.
• Stable political and legal environment with a common law system.

Residency disadvantages

• High cost of living, especially in Dublin, with expensive housing and private education.
• Personal tax rates are high for residents; worldwide income taxed after 3 years of residence.
• Limited double tax treaty network compared to some other hubs.
• Healthcare system under pressure, with long waiting times for public services.

Living quality

Ireland offers a high quality of life with a vibrant cultural scene, historic castles, and stunning landscapes from the Cliffs of Moher to the Ring of Kerry. Dublin provides world-class dining, shopping, and international schools, while the countryside offers tranquility. The climate is temperate but rainy, with mild winters and cool summers. Safety is generally high, though urban areas have typical petty crime. Infrastructure is modern, with excellent connectivity via Dublin Airport and a growing motorway network.

Best for

• Ireland is ideal for tech and pharma entrepreneurs, senior executives of multinationals, and UHNWIs seeking a European base with a favorable corporate tax regime. It suits those who value a strong legal framework, English language, and proximity to both the US and EU. Family offices looking to establish a presence in a sophisticated wealth management hub will find a dense ecosystem of advisors and fund structures.