Unveiling the IPN Number for Company Directors in Ireland

Companies Registration Office announced the new requirements for PPSN for Irish Company directors. Starting on 11 June 2023, all directors of Irish companies must file their PPS numbers when making certain filings with CRO. This is done for verification purposes and to combat identity theft. Providing PPSN to CRO officers will ensure that all company directors are alive and are natural persons However, not all directors of Irish companies are residents of Ireland and don’t have PPS number. They will be required to obtain IPN (identified person number).
In this IPN number guide, we’ll navigate you through all the essentials you need to know about IPN number in Ireland, how to obtain it and what is the difference between IPN, RBO, and PPS numbers. 

What is IPN Number 

IPN is a unique number assigned to non-resident directors of Irish companies. Unlike PPS number which is assigned to Irish residents only, IPN number is used for identity verification purpose only and does not give permission to use social benefits services, public services and information within the state.

Under the new requirements, each company director will need to submit either PPS, IPN or RBO number for an extensive range of filings related to company formation and compliance. Here they are:
Form A1 - Company formation
Form B1 - Annual return
Form B10 - Change of company secretary, directors or their particulars
Form B10a - Change of registered office address of a company
Form B69 - Notification from an individual that they cease to be a company director or secretary

If you’re a director of Irish company and don’t have PPS or IPN number, you can be charged with a category four offence and a fine of €5,000. You can get your IPN by completing a Form VIF– Declaration as to Verification of Identity. It is available at the official online portal of CRO – CORE. Once the form is processes by CRO, your IPN will be sent to your email

Verification of Identity Form: Key Facts about VIF

Must be witnessed and signed by a notary: VIF contains he directors' name, date of birth, nationality and address. It must be witnessed and signed by a company director itself and a notary public.
ONLY wet signature applied: CRO and the Corporate Enforcement Authority (CEA) do not accept digital or electronic signatures.
It does not violate your privacy: the data submitted in VIF are stored at CRO and is not visible to public view.

PPS vs IPN vs RBO Numbers: What is the Difference

As a company director in Ireland, you might come across other identification numbers such as PPS (Personal Public Service) and RBO (Register of Beneficial Ownership) numbers. It is important to understand the distinctions between these identification codes:
PPS Number: The PPS (personal public service number) is an identification number used for various social welfare and taxation purposes. It is assigned to irish residents by the Irish government.
IPN Number: As mentioned earlier, the IPN number is a unique identifier for directors of Irish companies who don’t have a PPS number.
RBO Number: RBO (Register of Beneficial Owners) number is assigned to ultimate beneficial owners of a company. New PPSN requirements allow for using RBO number as IPN for all CRO filings.

Get IPN Number with Chern & Co

If you’re looking for assistance with obtaining IPN number in Ireland or have any questions left, feel free to contact us. We’re working closely with the CRO to simplify the entire procedure for you. With our expertise and personaliіed assistance, we'll help you navigate through the bureaucratic maze and ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Reasons to work with us go beyond a stress-free process of obtaining Identified Person Number. 

Expert Guidance: Our team of professionals has in-depth knowledge of the PPS number application process. We'll provide you with accurate information and guide you every step of the way.
Time-Saving: Skip the long waiting times and bureaucratic red tape. Our streamlined approach will expedite your IPN number application, saving you valuable time and energy.
Stress-Free Experience: Let us handle the complex paperwork and documentation. We'll take care of the details, so you can focus on what matters most to you.
Affordability: Get the Identified Person number in Ireland with us for just 150 Eur*. Notary fee included.

Please note that 150 Eur is the cost of IPN application for only ONE company director.