The Companies Registration Office (CRO) has introduced new rules for Identified Person Number (IPN) applications.

What is an Identified Person Number (IPN)?

Anyone acting as a director or ultimate beneficial owner of an Irish‑registered company must have a unique identifier in order to make certain filings with the CRO:

 All directors of Irish companies need to provide their Personal Public Service Number (PPSN) when:
  • Incorporating a new company (Form A1)
  • Notifying a change of director (Form B10, B69)
  • Filing the yearly Annual Return (Form B1)

For non-resident individuals who do not have a PPSN, the CRO introduced the Identified Person Number (IPN) as an alternative.

This is a unique identifier number that is specifically assigned to directors (or beneficial owners) for the purposes of completing these filings.

Application for IPN – What Has Changed?

In a move to further strengthen the integrity of the Director\Ultimate Beneficial Owner identification regime, CRO has released a new version of the Verification of Identity Form (VIF Form) used when applying for an IPN.
The key change is that online witnessing is no longer permitted as per previous applications.

The reasoning for the change according to the CRO is that:

“The CRO has serious concerns surrounding the integrity of online witnessing on the VIF Forms. For this reason, the CRO will only accept forms that have been witnessed and signed with the witness and declarant physically in the same room for the verification of identity”.

The new rules come into effect the 30th of April 2026 and VIF forms must be verified in person going forward from that date.

Should you need any assistance in applying for an IPN, you can find further details on the process or submit an order here:

Alternatively, if you have any questions, please contact our team at ph: 01 664 1177 or email: [email protected]

Disclaimer:  This article  is for general informational purposes only. All content is provided in good faith; however, we make no representation or warranty of any kind regarding the accuracy, adequacy, validity, reliability, availability, or completeness of any information. All or any information is subject to change. This post does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Always seek the advice of a qualified professional or legal advisor with any questions you may have. CFI are not liable for any loss or damage arising from your use of the information contained in this Article.

For More Information:

Company Formations

Company Secretarial

Annual Returns

Register of Beneficial Owners