Choosing the Right Start Up Business Account in Ireland

17th February 2026

Opening a start up bank account is one of the first practical steps after launching a new business in Ireland. While it is not legally required for every business structure, having a separate account is considered best practice. It helps keep personal and business finances apart, simplifies bookkeeping, and makes it easier to manage taxes, payments, and day-to-day expenses.

Ireland offers a mix of traditional banks and digital providers, each with different strengths. Some established banks offer special startup packages, often including a fee-free period for the first one or two years. This can be valuable during the early stages when managing cash flow is critical. These accounts usually include online banking, debit cards, and access to lending or overdraft facilities if the business grows.

Digital banking providers are also popular with modern startups, especially those operating online or dealing with international customers. These accounts are typically faster to open, often fully online, and may include multi-currency features, accounting software integrations, and real-time spending controls. However, some digital accounts charge monthly subscriptions or transaction fees, so it is important to review the pricing structure carefully.

When choosing a start up bank account, business owners should compare fees, transaction limits, application processes, and available features. Key questions include whether the bank offers direct debit facilities, how many authorised users can access the account, and whether a mobile app is available. The application process is also important, particularly if you need to start receiving or making payments quickly.

To open a business account, banks will usually request photo ID and proof of address for all account holders. Limited companies must also provide their Certificate of Incorporation, company constitution, and proof of registration with the Register of Beneficial Ownership.

Ultimately, the best start up bank account depends on the needs of the business. Some owners prefer traditional banks for their branch access and lending options, while others choose digital providers for speed, flexibility, and lower day-to-day costs.

Below you can review Available Banks for a Start-Up Business Account in Ireland:

1) AIB – Startup Package

The AIB Business Startup Package is designed for businesses trading for less than three years and opening their first AIB Business Startup Current Account.

Pros

• No maintenance or transaction fees for the first two years (startup package).
• Discount of up to €100 on quarterly cash-handling fees.
• Access to AIB merchant services for in-store, online, and phone payments.
• Online banking platform for small, medium, and large businesses.
• Business support programmes and networking initiatives.

How to open an account

1. In-branch meeting required:
   • The company director and at least one authorised signatory must attend.
2. Documents must be signed in advance:
   • Typically, two directors, or one director and company secretary.
3. Additional checks for non-resident directors may apply.

2) Bank of Ireland – Startup Package

Bank of Ireland offers a startup package for businesses operating for up to three years.

Pros

• Waiver of transaction, maintenance, and certain service fees for the first 24 months.
• Access to business tools, guides, and startup support resources.
• Deposit options including instant access and fixed-term accounts.
• Online banking via Bank of Ireland 365.
• Free subscription to Business Online (BOL) for two years.
• Access to Workbench co-working and event spaces in multiple Irish cities.

How to open an account

1. Sole traders:
   • Can usually apply online.
2. Limited companies, partnerships, and other entities:
   • Meeting with a business advisor required (often in person or scheduled remotely).

3) Permanent TSB – Business Banking

Permanent TSB provides business banking mainly for small and medium-sized enterprises.

Pros

• Business current accounts for SMEs and sole traders.
• Bulk payment functionality for wages and suppliers.
• Visa business debit card.
• Online banking via Business24 platform.
• Branch network and in-person support available.

How to open an account

1. Book an appointment at a branch or apply online where available.
2. Gather required documents.
3. Complete forms and account terms.
4. Initial deposit may be required.

Note: Fee-free European transactions are subject to specific terms and account types; standard account fees may apply.

4) Revolut – Business Account

Revolut offers a fully digital, multi-currency business account.

Pros

• Digital account supporting multiple currencies.
• Integration with accounting platforms (e.g. Xero, FreeAgent, QuickBooks).
• Physical and virtual business debit cards for teams.
• Expense management and approval tools.
• Invoice creation and payment links.
• Open API for automation.
• Irish IBANs now widely available for Irish business customers.

Revolut Pro (for freelancers)

• Dedicated IBAN.
• Cashback debit card.
• No monthly fee on basic plan.
• Multi-currency payment acceptance.

How to open an account

1. Online application.
2. Document upload and ID verification.
3. Application review—often completed within hours or a few days.

5) Wise – Business Account

Wise provides a digital, multi-currency business account focused on international payments.

Pros

• Local bank details in multiple currencies (EUR, USD, GBP, etc.).
• Integration with accounting software such as Xero.
• API for automation and expense management.
• Batch payments for up to 1,000 transfers.
• Debit Mastercard available.
• Full-feature mobile and web app.

How to open an account

1. Fully online registration.
2. Verification usually takes a few days.
3. One-time account setup fee (typically around €50; subject to change).
4. Optional debit card fee.

6) N26 – Business Account

N26 provides a digital banking service primarily for freelancers and sole traders.

Pros

• Fully mobile-based banking.
• Transaction tagging for projects and tax tracking.
• Business Mastercard with small cashback.
• “Spaces” feature for budgeting and tax savings.
• Savings options through partner banks.

Key points

• Available only to residents of supported European countries.
• No traditional branch network.

How to open an account

1. Choose a plan (Standard, Smart, or You).
2. Complete the online application.
3. Verify ID through the app.
4. Multilingual customer support available.

7) Fire – Business Account

Fire is a digital business account popular with online and e-commerce businesses.

Pros

• Multiple users with individual access permissions.
• Multiple debit cards linked to EUR and GBP accounts.
• Real-time payment and FX notifications.
• EUR and GBP accounts available.
• API integration for automation.
• Compatible with accounting software (Xero, QuickBooks, Sage).

How to open an account

1. Fully online application.
2. Typical setup time: about 24–48 hours (subject to checks).
3. Available to Irish- or UK-incorporated companies.

Need help choosing the right account?
Our team works with startups across a wide range of industries and can guide you through the banking setup process. If you would like advice on the most suitable account for your business or assistance preparing the required documents, please contact us and we will be happy to help.