Opening a salon in Ireland (2026): Revenue, VAT, and HSE compliance
Sole trader vs limited company, €40k VAT threshold (services), HSE infection control, and the Workplace Relations Commission rates.
Revenue registration
Register as a sole trader via ROS or set up a Limited Company through CRO (€50 online). Most stylists start as sole traders and switch to Ltd after €70k profit for tax efficiency.
VAT threshold
Services VAT registration kicks in at €40,000 turnover in 12 months. Hairdressing is the 9% reduced rate; beauty (waxing, facials, nails) is the standard 23%. Mixed salons need careful POS configuration.
HSE infection control
Skin-piercing services (microblading, body piercing) need to comply with HSE's National Guidelines for Infection Prevention and Control in Aesthetic Services. Local Environmental Health Officers inspect.
WRC pay rates
There is no specific salon Employment Regulation Order — minimum wage (€13.50/hr 2026) applies, plus Sunday premium. Apprentices follow the FETAC scheme rates.
Booking and reminders
Beautifyx supports Eircode-based search, Revolut/Stripe payments, and SMS reminders to mobile numbers — average no-show reduction 40% in first month.