🇮🇪 Ireland vs 🇪🇪 Estonia
Company formation compared. Tax, setup, banking, costs.
🇮🇪
Ireland
Private Limited Company (LTD)
Tax: 12.5% trading profit
Setup: €69 (€19 + €50 CRO)
Time: ~5 business days
- ✓ Stripe Ireland HQ — easier integration
- ✓ Real Irish IBAN with AIB / BOI
- ✓ 12.5% on trading profit
- ✓ Better for hiring
- ✓ Stronger Investor credibility
- ✗ 12.5% applies even if you don't withdraw
- ✗ Higher annual costs
- ✗ Section 137 if non-resident
🇪🇪
Estonia
Tax: 0% retained / 20% distributed
Setup: €265 e-Residency + €190 incorporation
Time: 24 hours via e-Residency
- ✓ 0% tax until you distribute
- ✓ 100% online via e-Residency
- ✓ Lower annual admin
- ✓ Cheaper accountant
- ✗ Stripe access via Atlas only
- ✗ No real EU bank — Wise/Payoneer only
- ✗ Limited physical presence
- ✗ 20% kicks in on payouts
Honest verdict