By Shannon Power, 22nd August 2025

Starting a business in Ireland is an exciting step, whether you’re setting up as a sole trader, forming a partnership, or eventually planning to incorporate. For many entrepreneurs, trading under a business name, rather than their legal name, creates a more professional image and helps establish a brand identity from the outset.

However, if you decide to operate under any name other than your legal name, Irish law requires business name registration with the Companies Registration Office (CRO). This process is straightforward but comes with specific rules and ongoing obligations that every business owner should understand. In this article, we walk you through the requirements for business name registration in Ireland, who should register, and what to be aware of in 2025.

Why Register a Business Name?

Registering your business name is a legal requirement under the Registration of Business Names Act 1963 if you trade under a name other than your own. Registrations ensure transparency between the business and its customers, suppliers, etc., so that they can identify the person or entity behind the business.

• Sole Traders: Using business names helps avoid trading under personal names. If you anticipate significant growth, not having a brand name could hinder your expansion.
• Limited Companies: Often use business names if the company name they desire is unavailable with the CRO.

It is important to note that the registration of a business name does not give you exclusive rights to that name. If you wish to protect your name from being used by others, you should consider applying for a trademark.

If you would like to see whether a name is already in use, you can check using our Free Company Name Check Service!

When Do I Need to Register a Business Name?

There are several situations in which registering a business name is essential to ensure compliance. These include:

1. Individuals using a business name that differs from their legal surname. This applies regardless of whether the individual’s first name or initials are included.
2. Partnerships employing a business name that is different from the true names of all individual partners and the official names of any corporate partners.
3. Corporations using a business name that is different from their full corporate name in any way.
4. Persons publishing a newspaper in the state under a name other than their own.

What is the Difference Between Registering a Business Name and Company Incorporation?

When deciding whether you want to register a business name or incorporate a company, it is important to understand the difference between the two.

• Registering a business name does not create a separate legal entity. As a sole trader or partnership, you remain personally liable for debts and obligations.
• Incorporating a company on the other hand, creates a separate legal entity with limited liability.

Choosing between the two solely depends on the structure of your business, the risks involved, and your plans for growth.

How Do I Register a Business Name?

You can register a business name yourself using a Form RBN1 (Business Name Registration Form) through the CORE.ie site, or you can enlist the help of a professional agent, such as Company Bureau, to make the process easier for you!

Take a look at our Business Name Registration Services here!

There are a few items of information that you will need to provide to register your business name, including:

1. Business name – Your chosen name, which must comply with the CRO business name guidelines.
2. Nature of the business.
3. Principal place of business – You must have an Irish business address before registering a business name in Ireland. If you don’t already have one, consider our Registered Office Service.
4. Date of business name commencement.
5. Details on the proprietor.

Why Might My Name Be Rejected?

Registering a business name in Ireland comes with some specific restrictions when it comes to choosing a name. Make sure to check your desired name with the below restrictions to avoid any delays.

Key Restrictions:

• Similarity to Existing Names: The CRO will reject a name if it is too similar, identical, or phonetically the same as an already existing name. If you do want to register a name that is similar to one already on the register, we recommend adding extra distinguishing words to create a sufficient distinction.
• Offensive Wording: Names that contain language or connotation considered offensive are strictly prohibited.
• Implying State Endorsement: Any names that imply government or state sponsorship or endorsement, without official authority, will be rejected.
• Restricted Words: Specific words have restricted use and must be approved by the relevant bodies to be used. This includes words such as Bank, University, holding, society, architect, and more. Read the full list of restricted words here.
• Names as Gaeilge: If you wish to use a word in the Irish language in your business name, the entire chosen name must be in Irish. Registered names can only be 100% Irish or 100% English and cannot be combined.

I’ve Registered My Business Name – What Next?

With your business name successfully registered, the next step is to adhere to a few key requirements to stay compliant.

Certificate of Registration:

The registrar will issue you a certificate of registration once your name has been registered. A copy of the certificate of registration must be exhibited in a conspicuous position:

• Firms & Individuals: Must be at the principal place of business and in every branch office, or place where business is normally conducted.
• Body Corporate: Must be at its registered office within the State and in every branch, office, or place where business is normally conducted.

Business Letters:

The name(s) of the proprietor(s) of the business must be shown on all business letters, circulars, etc., on which the business name appears. If the proprietor of the business name is a corporate body, the following additional information must be shown on the business letter:

1. The full name of the company.
2. The name and any former names of the directors and their nationality if not Irish.

Changes to Business:

Registered business names do not expire in Ireland; however, you must notify the CRO if:

• The business ceases trading.
• There is a change in the details of the business, e.g. address change, partner changes, etc.

Business name registration in Ireland is a simple yet crucial step in kickstarting your sole tradership or partnership. By understanding the requirements, avoiding common pitfalls, and keeping your details up-to-date, you can ensure your business runs smoothly from the get-go!

If you have any questions regarding the above information, or on setting up a business, do not hesitate to contact the Company Bureau team!

Disclaimer: This article is for guidance purposes only. It does not constitute legal or professional advice. No liability is accepted by Company Bureau for any action taken or not taken in reliance on the information set out in this article. Professional or legal advice should be obtained before taking or refraining from any action as a result of this article. Any and all information is subject to change.