🇳🇱Netherlands vs Ireland🇮🇪
Checked November 4, 2026 · How we score
| Metric | Netherlands | Ireland |
|---|---|---|
| Corporate tax | 25.8% | 12.5% |
| Top personal tax | 49.5% | 40% |
| Capital gains tax | 31% | 33% |
| VAT | 21% | 23% |
| Usual entity | BV (private limited company) | Private company limited by shares (LTD) |
| Setup cost | $2,000–$4,500 | $1,500–$4,000 |
| Yearly cost | $4,000–$9,000 | $3,500–$9,500 |
| Time to form | 10 days | 10 days |
| Remote setup | Yes | Yes |
| Banking difficulty | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| Digital nomad visa | No | No |
| Our score | 5.1/10 | 6.7/10 |
Choose Netherlands if…
- →Holding companies and IP structures
- →Tech and e-commerce firms with EU customers
- →US citizens using DAFT
Choose Ireland if…
- →Tech and IP-heavy businesses selling into the EU
- →Founders who can use an EEA-resident director
- →Companies planning outside investment
Questions people ask
Is Netherlands or Ireland better for a new company?
Ireland has the lower overall tax burden (12.5% corporate, 40% top personal). Netherlands is easier to set up, while Ireland is cheaper to run. Netherlands carries more weight with banks, investors and customers. Overall, Ireland scores 6.7/10 on our index vs 5.1/10.
What is the corporate tax in the Netherlands?
19% on the first EUR 200,000 of profit and 25.8% above it. Qualifying income can use the 9% Innovation Box, and qualifying dividends and gains are exempt under the participation exemption.
Can a foreigner open a BV in the Netherlands?
Yes. A Dutch civil-law notary must execute the deed, and non-residents can sign by power of attorney. There is no minimum capital; costs are roughly EUR 1,500–4,000 including notary fees, KvK registration and an address.
Can a non-EU resident open a company in Ireland?
Yes, but at least one director must be an EEA resident, or the company must put up a EUR 25,000 bond. Many founders use a nominee director from a corporate service provider, which adds roughly EUR 1,500–3,000 per year.
What is Irish corporation tax in 2026?
12.5% on trading profit, 25% on passive income, and 15% for groups within Pillar Two (revenue of EUR 750m or more). Start-ups may also claim relief on the first three years.
More comparisons
Not tax or legal advice. Rates and rules change; we check official sources and update every page, but verify with a licensed adviser in the country before acting. Spotted something out of date? Use the correction form below.