5th January 2026
CIRI Registration in Ireland: Are You Ready for 2026?
Introduction
CIRI registration refers to registration on the Construction Industry Register Ireland, a statutory register established to improve standards, transparency, and compliance within the Irish construction sector. The register is overseen by the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) on behalf of the Irish Government and plays a central role in determining who is eligible to carry out certain construction activities in Ireland.
For businesses operating in construction, understanding who must register, when registration is required, and how the process works is essential—particularly as mandatory registration is being introduced on a phased basis.
Who needs to register?
Registration on the Construction Industry Register Ireland applies to builders and construction contractors carrying out construction works in Ireland. This includes both Irish-established businesses and overseas contractors operating in the State.
In practical terms, registration may be relevant for:
- Building contractors carrying out residential or non-residential construction works
- Sole traders, partnerships, and companies engaged in construction activities
- Contractors seeking to tender for public sector construction projects
- Contractors working for developers, local authorities, or other regulated clients
Subcontractors may also be required to register, depending on the nature of the works performed and the phase of implementation.
Voluntary vs mandatory registration
At present, CIRI registration operates under a phased model, with an important distinction between voluntary and mandatory registration.
Voluntary registration allows contractors to apply to the register even where registration is not yet legally required for their category of works. Many businesses choose voluntary registration to:
- Demonstrate compliance and professionalism
- Strengthen tender submissions and commercial credibility
- Prepare in advance for future mandatory requirements
Mandatory registration applies once regulations specify that certain classes of builders or works must be carried out only by CIRI-registered contractors. Where mandatory registration applies:
- Contractors must be registered to legally undertake the relevant construction works
- Clients may be prohibited from engaging non-registered contractors
- Non-compliance may expose contractors to enforcement action and penalties
The scope of mandatory registration is expected to expand over time, making early preparation critical.
When registration is required and key timeframes
The statutory rollout of CIRI registration will begin in early 2026 and will operate on a phased, division-based approach. Registration obligations will depend on which division a contractor falls into and when that division is formally launched.
Start of the regime
Applications for registration on the Construction Industry Register Ireland are expected to open by early 2026. From that point onward, divisions will be introduced sequentially by regulation.
12-month registration window
Once a specific division is launched, applicants will have 12 months from that launch date to submit a valid application and become registered. Failure to register within this timeframe may prevent contractors from legally carrying out works within their division.
Expected phased divisions
- First Division – Residential providers
This initial phase is expected to apply to providers of residential dwellings, specifically:- Triplex and duplex buildings
- Housing developments of ten or more units
- All apartment providers
- Second Division – Non-residential builders
Following the initial residential phase, the next division is expected to include builders of non-residential (commercial) buildings. - Subsequent Divisions – Sub-contractors and trades
Later phases are expected to extend mandatory registration to specialist sub-contractors and trades, with scope and sequencing to be confirmed.
The exact order, scope, and commencement dates for the second and subsequent divisions will be set out in regulations as the phased rollout continues. Contractors should monitor developments closely and prepare in advance, particularly where their activities are likely to fall within early phases.
How the registration process works
The CIRI registration process is completed online through the official CIRI portal and generally involves:
- Selecting the appropriate registration category based on construction activities
- Providing business, tax, and compliance information
- Demonstrating relevant experience and competence
- Submitting supporting documentation
- Paying the applicable registration fee
Applications are reviewed before approval, and successful applicants are listed on the Construction Industry Register Ireland.
Conclusion
CIRI registration represents a significant compliance development for the construction sector. As mandatory registration continues to be rolled out, contractors should assess their position early, understand whether and when registration applies, and ensure that the necessary documentation is in place.
Taking a proactive approach—whether through voluntary registration now or preparation for future mandatory requirements—can help businesses remain compliant, competitive, and well-positioned in the Irish construction market.
Our team can guide you through the CIRI registration process to help you meet deadlines and avoid penalties.
