Business Name Registration in Ireland: Step-by-Step Guide

Starting a business in Ireland is very simple and easy if you are doing this with the help of a company formation expert in Ireland. The same is applicable to registering a business name too.

So the very next question is, do I always need to register my business name?

Whether you’re a sole trader or a limited company, registering a business name with the Companies Registration Office (CRO) is a legal requirement if you plan to trade under a name other than your own. The purpose of business name registration in Ireland is to make a public and legal identity of those people who run their businesses in the country.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of how to register a business name in Ireland including how to do a CRO business name search and submitting your application.

What’s In This Article!

#1: Who needs to register a business name?
#2: Why register a business name?
#3: When is business name registration required?
#4: How to register a business name in Ireland?
#5: Key considerations when registering a business name?

Who needs to register a business name?

Sole Traders

If you’re operating as a sole trader and want to trade under a name that isn’t your given name, you must register your business name with the CRO.

Example:

Allowed: Adam Flower can trade as “Adam Flower Consulting.”
Requires Registration: If John wants to trade as “O’Brien Solutions,” he must register this business name

Limited Companies

As a limited company, your official company name is already registered. However, if you want to operate under a different trading name, you must register a business name.

Example: “Michelle Innovations Ltd” trading as “Michelle Solutions”

Additionally, if you’re transitioning from a sole trader to a limited company, you must de-register your existing business name and re-register it under the new company structure

Why register a business name?

✔️ Brand Identity & Growth: Registering a business name allows you to establish a recognizable brand and build credibility with customers.
✔️ Compliance with Irish Law: The Registration of Business Names Act 1963 mandates that businesses trading under a name other than their legal entity must register it.
✔️ Differentiating Business Divisions: Limited companies often register multiple business names for different divisions operating under the same company umbrella.

When is business name registration required?

You must register a business name if:

✔️ You are a sole trader operating under a name different from your legal name.
✔️ Your limited company wants to use a different trading name.
✔️ You are in a partnership, and the business name does not include all partners’ names

⚠️ Note: Business name registration does not provide legal protection against duplication. Unlike trademark registration, another business can still use the same name.

How to register a business name in Ireland?

Registering a business name is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

✔️ Step 1: Conduct a Business Name Check: Before submitting your application, perform a CRO business name search to check if your desired name is available. You can do this via the CRO website. Business name registration in Ireland typically takes up to three weeks, though processing times may be longer during peak periods. It is important to plan ahead to avoid any delays in starting your business operations.

✔️ Step 2: Gather Required Information: You’ll need the details such as Proposed business name, Nature of business, Principal place of business (must be in Ireland), Date of adoption of the business name and Other business names under which you may be trading. To register a business name, your principal place of business must be in Ireland. Non-residents cannot register a business name unless they have a physical business address within the country.

✔️ Step 3: File Form RBN1: Online Registration: Submit the RBN1 form through the CORE portal (core.cro.ie). Paper Registration: Alternatively, you can submit a paper application to the CRO.

✔️ Step 4: Pay the registration fee.

✔️ Step 5: Sign & Submit the Application: Once the form is completed, you must print, sign, and submit it to the CRO. If applying online, scan and upload the signed document.

✔️ Step 6: Receive Business Name Certificate: The CRO typically processes applications within 3 weeks. Once approved, you’ll receive a Business Name Certificate via email, allowing you to start trading under your registered name. Additionally, business names are non-transferable. If an owner no longer wishes to use a registered business name, they must formally cease trading under it before another person or entity can register it anew.

Key considerations when registering a business name?

⚠️ The CRO does not check for name conflicts – it is your responsibility to ensure your chosen name doesn’t infringe on trademarks or existing business names.

Restricted Words: You cannot use words like “Limited,” “Ltd,” “Teoranta,” “Company,” or “Incorporated” in a business name
Domain Name Considerations: If your business name includes “.ie” or “.com,” proof of domain ownership is required
Business Letters & Branding: Your business name must appear on all invoices, websites, and official correspondence.

Final Thoughts & Next Steps

Registering a business name in Ireland is an essential step for sole traders and limited companies looking to establish a professional brand identity. While the process is straightforward, ensuring compliance with CRO regulations is key to avoiding potential legal issues.

Need Help Registering Your Business Name? Our team of experts simplifies the process for you. Contact us today to ensure a smooth registration process and get your business up and running with confidence.

Are you looking to start your dream company in Ireland?

For expert consultation, CALL (087) 225 7706
01 441 6919

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