Eligibility & Residence

Eligibility and Restrictions on Director Appointment

A person must consent to their appointment; otherwise, the appointment is void. Corporations, unincorporated bodies, and individuals under 18 cannot serve as directors. Additionally, undischarged bankrupts are prohibited from acting as directors, and violations are punishable under law unless court approval is granted.

Disqualification and Restrictions

Directors may face disqualification or restrictions if they fail to meet legal standards, with disqualified persons prohibited from managing or forming companies. Violations carry serious penalties, and disqualified individuals are recorded by the CRO. Similarly, restrictions may be placed on directors of insolvent companies, typically for five years, limiting their ability to act without specific capital requirements and CRO registration.

EEA Residence and Bond Requirement

Irish companies must have at least one EEA-resident director or provide a €25,000 bond covering penalties for company law or tax breaches. Alternatively, companies with a “real and continuous link” to Ireland can obtain CRO certification, exempting them from these requirements. Non-compliance results in penalties for both the director and the company.

Directorship Limit

Directors are limited to 25 private company directorships, with certain exceptions for public and financial services companies. Exceeding this limit is an offense, voiding excess appointments. Exemptions may apply, and disputes over certification can be appealed to the Minister.