Public Limited Company (PLC) in Ireland, for raising money from the public
A PLC is the only Irish company type that can offer its shares to the public. That reach comes with higher capital requirements, an annual AGM and heavier reporting. For most start-ups, a private company is the better fit. Here is what a PLC involves and when it earns its place.
At a glance
What a PLC is
A PLC is a public company limited by shares. It can invite the public to subscribe for its shares and can seek a stock exchange listing, and there is no cap on the number of shareholders. A PLC does not have to be listed, but a company that wants to list is generally a public company.
A good fit for
- Companies planning a public share offer or listing
- Large ventures raising capital from many investors
- Businesses where investors expect a public company structure
The rules that shape a PLC
Six points that set a PLC apart from a private company.
Minimum share capital
The nominal value of allotted share capital must be at least €25,000, and at least 25% of it must be fully paid up before the company starts business or uses its borrowing powers. Company setup guide
Name ending
Must end in Public Limited Company, PLC or the Irish Cuideachta Phoiblí Theoranta. Company naming rules
Directors and secretary
At least two directors and a company secretary. Company secretarial services
AGM
Required every year. A PLC cannot dispense with it.
Shareholders
No upper limit.
Offers, listings and audit
Public offers and listings bring prospectus and market rules on top of company law, and PLCs are generally not eligible for the small-company audit exemption. Annual accounts & audit rules
How to register it
Most of the work is in the preparation, so a clean filing goes through without fuss.
PLC or LTD?
| PLC | LTD | |
|---|---|---|
| Public share offer | Allowed | Not allowed |
| Minimum share capital | €25,000 allotted | None |
| Minimum directors | 2 | 1 |
| AGM | Required | Can be dispensed with |
| Shareholders | No upper limit | Up to 149 |
General guide only. Your own facts can change the answer, so ask us before you file. Compare all company structures
What you take on once it's registered
Three things to put in the diary on day one.
Questions about PLC companies in Ireland
Is a PLC the same as a listed company?
No. A PLC can seek a listing but does not have to. An unlisted PLC is simply a public company.
What is the minimum share capital for a PLC?
The allotted share capital must be at least €25,000 in nominal value, with at least 25% fully paid up before the company starts business.
How many directors does a PLC need?
At least two, plus a company secretary. Company secretarial services.
Can an LTD become a PLC?
Yes. A private company can re-register as a public company, which needs the right capital and constitution. Read our re-registration guide.
Thinking about a PLC?
Tell us what you plan to raise and from whom. We'll tell you honestly whether a PLC is needed, or whether a private company will do.
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