How to Become a Freelancer Legally in Ireland

Ah, the dream of being your own boss in Ireland! It sounds absolutely liberating, doesn't it? Trading the corporate grind for flexible hours, choosing your own clients, and truly owning your work. But let's be real, for us expats, the thought of navigating the legal and administrative labyrinth to become a legal freelancer here can feel like a headache waiting to happen. This guide is here to cut through the confusion, offering a clear, step-by-step roadmap to help you legitimately launch your freelance career in the Emerald Isle.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Legal Landscape for Freelancers in Ireland

Stepping into the world of freelancing in a new country can feel like walking onto a stage where you don't know the lines. Ireland, like any other nation, has its own set of rules and definitions for what it means to be a self-employed individual. Getting this right from the start is absolutely crucial; it dictates everything from your tax obligations to your social welfare entitlements.

Who is Considered a Freelancer in Ireland?

In Ireland, the term "freelancer" broadly falls under the umbrella of "self-employed" or "sole trader" status, especially when you're starting out on your own. This essentially means you're running your own business, even if that business is just you, providing a service or selling goods to clients. You're not an employee of a company; instead, you're an independent contractor. Think of writers, graphic designers, IT consultants, language tutors, photographers, and even artisans selling their crafts – all can be considered freelancers. The key characteristic is that you bear the risk and reward of your business, and you decide how, when, and where you do your work, rather than being directed by an employer.

What truly distinguishes a freelancer (or sole trader) from an employee in the eyes of the Irish tax authorities (Revenue) is the level of control, integration, and financial risk involved. If you're providing services to multiple clients, invoicing for your work, using your own equipment, and have the freedom to accept or refuse work, chances are you'll be classified as self-employed. This distinction is vital because it determines how you interact with the tax system and what your legal responsibilities are. It’s a completely different ballgame from being on a company payroll, and understanding this will save you a lot of grief down the line.

Key Differences: Employee vs. Self-Employed (Sole Trader)

The distinction between being an employee and being self-employed (a sole trader, as often the case for freelancers) is fundamental in Ireland and carries significant implications for expats. As an employee, you receive a regular salary, your employer deducts taxes (PAYE, PRSI, USC) directly from your wages, and you have certain statutory rights regarding sick pay, annual leave, and notice periods. Your employer also pays a contribution to your PRSI (Pay Related Social Insurance), which goes towards state benefits like the State Pension. Essentially, the company takes on most of the administrative and financial burden associated with your employment.

On the other hand, as a self-employed individual, you are responsible for calculating and paying your own income tax, PRSI, and USC directly to Revenue. You don't get statutory sick pay or annual leave from a 'boss' because you are the boss. While this offers incredible flexibility and autonomy, it also means you're solely responsible for your financial security, including making provisions for time off, illness, and retirement. Furthermore, your PRSI contributions as a self-employed person (known as Class S PRSI) entitle you to a different set of social welfare benefits compared to employees, often excluding certain short-term benefits. Understanding these nuanced differences is crucial not just for compliance but for your personal financial planning in Ireland. It's a trade-off: more freedom, but also more responsibility.

Visa and Immigration Considerations for Freelancers

This is where things can get a bit tricky for non-EU/EEA expats dreaming of the freelance life in Ireland. While many countries have dedicated "freelancer visas," Ireland, unfortunately, does not. The general rule is that you cannot come to Ireland specifically to freelance unless you hold an immigration permission that explicitly allows self-employment. Most standard work permits, like the Critical Skills Employment Permit or the General Employment Permit, are tied to a specific employer and do not permit you to work as a self-employed person. If you're here on such a permit, your ability to freelance is severely restricted or entirely prohibited.

However, there are exceptions. If you are an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, you have the right to live and work in Ireland, including being self-employed, without any specific visa or permit. For non-EU/EEA nationals, the path is narrower. You might be able to freelance if you have an immigration Stamp 4, which often comes after a number of years on certain employment permits or through marriage/civil partnership to an Irish or EU citizen. Stamp 4 generally grants the holder permission to work without an employment permit and to establish a business. There's also the Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) for those with innovative business ideas and significant capital, which can lead to self-employment, but it's not designed for the typical freelancer. Always check your current immigration stamp and consult with the Irish Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) if you're unsure about your eligibility. Trying to freelance without the correct immigration permission can lead to serious legal consequences, including deportation, so it's not a risk worth taking. You'll want to review The Complete Guide to Irish Visas and Immigration Permission for Expats (2027) for more detail on this critical aspect of expat life.

Registering Your Freelance Business with Revenue (Irish Tax Authority)

Once you've confirmed your immigration status allows for self-employment, the next big hurdle (and it can feel like a jump over a particularly tall hedge in the rain) is getting registered with Revenue. This isn't just a formality; it's how the Irish government officially recognises you as a legitimate, tax-paying individual contributing to the economy. Messing this up can lead to fines and complications, so let’s get it right.

Getting Your PPS Number and Registering as a Sole Trader

Before you can even think about registering your freelance business, you absolutely need a Personal Public Service (PPS) number. Think of it as your unique identifier for all public services in Ireland, including tax. If you don't have one, you'll need to apply to the Department of Social Protection. This usually involves proving your identity and your reason for needing the number, such as employment or applying for a service. Once that's sorted, the real fun begins: registering as a sole trader with Revenue.

To officially tell Revenue you're self-employed, you use their online system, myAccount. If you haven't already, you'll need to register for myAccount first. Once logged in, you navigate to the "Manage My Record" section and select "Register for Tax." Here, you'll indicate that you are registering as a "Sole Trader." You’ll need to provide details like your business start date, the nature of your freelance work, and your expected income. It’s a relatively straightforward process online, but it requires careful attention to detail. This registration ensures you're on Revenue's radar for income tax, PRSI, and USC as a self-employed individual. This is a foundational step, and you can find a lot of guidance on this in posts like How to Register for Tax and Get a PPS Number in Ireland. Don't forget that this is also how Revenue will communicate with you regarding your tax affairs, so ensure all your contact details are up to date.

Understanding Your Tax Obligations: Income Tax, PRSI, and USC

Alright, let's talk about the big three: Income Tax, PRSI (Pay Related Social Insurance), and USC (Universal Social Charge). For employees, these are usually handled automatically by their employer through the PAYE (Pay As You Earn) system. But as a self-employed freelancer, you are your own payroll department. This means calculating these amounts and making sure they're paid to Revenue on time.

Income Tax: Your taxable income as a freelancer is generally your gross income minus your allowable expenses. Ireland operates a progressive tax system with different tax bands and rates. The standard rate is 20%, and the higher rate is 40% (for 2024, the standard rate cut-off point is €42,000 for a single person). You’ll also benefit from tax credits, which reduce the amount of tax you pay.
PRSI (Class S): As a self-employed person, you pay Class S PRSI. This rate is typically 4% of your gross income, with a minimum payment due if your annual income exceeds a certain threshold. While it does contribute to certain social welfare benefits (like the State Pension, Maternity Benefit, Paternity Benefit, and some illness benefits), it's important to note that Class S PRSI does not cover all benefits that Class A (employee) PRSI does, such as Jobseeker's Benefit.
USC (Universal Social Charge): This is a tax on your gross income, similar to income tax, but applied at different rates depending on your income level. It's paid after relief for certain specified expenses but before pension contributions.

These taxes are typically paid through the self-assessment system, meaning you estimate your tax liability for the year and make preliminary payments, usually by 31st October each year, along with filing your tax return (Form 11). It's a lot to wrap your head around, so many expats rely on services like Taxes for Expats to ensure they are compliant and taking advantage of all possible deductions and credits. Understanding How Much Income Tax Will I Pay in Ireland in 2026? is a good starting point for your financial planning.

Navigating VAT: Do You Need to Register?

Ah, VAT, or Value-Added Tax. This is another layer of complexity that self-employed individuals need to consider. Not every freelancer needs to register for VAT, and whether you do largely depends on your annual turnover. In Ireland, the current thresholds for compulsory VAT registration are:

€40,000 for the supply of services.
€80,000 for the supply of goods.

If your freelance income from services is expected to exceed €40,000 in any continuous 12-month period, then you are legally obliged to register for VAT. Once registered, you must charge VAT on your services (at the appropriate rate, usually 23% for most services), collect it from your clients, and then remit it to Revenue. You also get to reclaim VAT on your business expenses, which can be a significant benefit.

If your turnover is below the threshold, VAT registration is optional. Some freelancers choose to voluntarily register for VAT even if they don't meet the threshold, primarily if they have significant VAT-able expenses and want to reclaim the VAT. However, voluntary registration also means you must charge VAT to your clients, which could make your services more expensive and potentially less competitive, especially if your clients cannot reclaim VAT themselves. It's a strategic decision that requires careful thought. You can learn more about the process in How to Register for VAT as a Business in Ireland. Always keep a close eye on your turnover, as exceeding the threshold without registering can lead to penalties from Revenue.

Setting Up Your Freelance Finances and Banking

Once you’re legally registered, the next logical step is to get your finances in order. This isn’t just about making money; it’s about managing it responsibly, ensuring you can track your income and expenses for tax purposes, and keeping your professional and personal finances separate. Trust me, future-you will thank past-you for setting this up properly.

Opening a Business Bank Account as a Freelancer

You might be thinking, "Do I really need a separate bank account for my freelance work?" And the answer, my friend, is a resounding yes. While technically, as a sole trader, your business and personal finances are treated as one for tax purposes, having a dedicated business bank account simplifies your life immensely. It makes tracking income and expenses for your annual tax return (Form 11) incredibly straightforward. No more sifting through personal transactions trying to figure out what was a client payment and what was your weekly grocery shop.

Most major Irish banks, like Bank of Ireland and AIB, offer business accounts, but they often come with monthly fees or transaction charges. Digital banks like Revolut or N26 can also be an option, often offering lower fees or even free basic business accounts, but it's essential to check if their features meet your needs (e.g., direct debits, international transfers). When opening an account, you'll generally need your PPS number, proof of address, and sometimes proof of your self-employment registration with Revenue. Some banks might require a business plan or proof of anticipated income. Getting this in place is a smart move right from the start. You'll find more on this in How to Open a Bank Account at an Irish Bank as a Foreigner.

Managing Invoices, Expenses, and Record-Keeping

Effective record-keeping is the backbone of any successful freelance business, and it’s non-negotiable for tax compliance in Ireland. As a freelancer, you’ll be issuing invoices to your clients for your services. Your invoices should always include:

Your name and address (or business name if you have one).
Your client's name and address.
A unique invoice number.
The date of issue and the date the services were provided.
A clear description of the services provided.
The amount charged (before and after VAT, if applicable).
Your VAT number, if registered.
Payment terms and due date.

On the flip side, you need to meticulously track all your business expenses. These are the costs incurred "wholly and exclusively" for your trade, profession, or vocation. Keep receipts, bank statements, and any other documentation for everything. This includes things like office supplies, software subscriptions, professional development courses, marketing costs, and even a portion of your utility bills if you work from home. Tools like QuickBooks, Xero, or even a simple spreadsheet can be invaluable for this. Good record-keeping isn't just for Revenue; it helps you understand your business's profitability and cash flow. It’s part of your obligation when you How Do I Register My Freelance Income with Revenue in Ireland?.

Understanding Deductible Expenses for Freelancers

One of the great advantages of being self-employed in Ireland is the ability to deduct allowable business expenses from your gross income before calculating your income tax liability. This effectively reduces your taxable income, saving you money. However, the golden rule is that an expense must be incurred "wholly and exclusively" for the purpose of your trade. This means it can't be for personal use, or at least not entirely.

Common deductible expenses for freelancers include:

Office costs: Rent (if you have a dedicated office), stationery, postage, internet, phone bills (a portion if used for personal and business).
Professional fees: Accounting fees, legal advice, professional body memberships.
Marketing and advertising: Website hosting, domain names, online ads, business cards.
Travel expenses: Costs associated with client meetings, conferences, or necessary business travel.
Software and subscriptions: Tools essential for your freelance work (e.g., Adobe Creative Cloud, project management software).
Training and professional development: Courses or workshops directly related to improving your freelance skills. This could even include online language learning platforms like iTalki if you're a language teacher or need to learn a new language for international clients.
Equipment: Computers, cameras, printers, software.

If you work from home, you can usually claim a portion of your household expenses (e.g., electricity, heating, internet, mortgage interest/rent) as business expenses. This is typically calculated based on the proportion of your home used exclusively for work and the amount of time it's used. Keep detailed records and be prepared to justify these deductions if Revenue ever asks. It’s always a good idea to consult with an accountant, especially when you’re starting out, to ensure you're maximising your legitimate deductions.

Essential Compliance and Insurance for Irish Freelancers

Beyond taxes, there’s a whole layer of compliance and protection that savvy freelancers need to consider. Ignoring these aspects can expose you to unnecessary risks, both financial and legal. Think of it as building a robust foundation for your freelance castle.

Professional Indemnity and Public Liability Insurance

As a freelancer, you are personally liable for your work and any potential harm or loss it might cause. This is where insurance comes in, offering a crucial safety net.

Professional Indemnity (PI) Insurance: This is arguably the most important type of insurance for many freelancers, especially those offering advice, design, or professional services (e.g., consultants, designers, writers, IT specialists). PI insurance protects you against claims of negligence, errors, or omissions in the professional advice or services you provide that result in financial loss for your client. For instance, if a piece of code you wrote caused a client's system to crash, or an architectural design you produced had a costly flaw, PI insurance would cover the legal defence costs and any damages awarded. Many clients, particularly larger companies, will insist you have PI insurance before engaging your services.
Public Liability (PL) Insurance: If you interact with clients or the public in person, or if clients visit your home office, PL insurance is essential. It covers claims made against you for injury or property damage to third parties (e.g., a client slips and falls in your home office, or you accidentally damage a client's equipment while on their premises).

While neither PI nor PL insurance is typically legally mandatory for all freelancers in Ireland (unless specified by your professional body or client contract), they are highly recommended. The cost varies depending on your profession, turnover, and the level of cover, but it's a small price to pay for peace of mind and protection against potentially crippling legal fees. You can get quotes from various insurers like AIG, AXA, or specialist brokers who understand the freelance market.

In today's digital world, handling personal data is almost inevitable, and as a freelancer in Ireland, you must comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). This means you need to be mindful of how you collect, store, process, and protect any personal data belonging to your clients, their customers, or indeed anyone else. This includes names, email addresses, payment details, and any other identifiable information.

Key GDPR considerations for freelancers include:

Consent: If you're collecting data, ensure you have explicit consent.
Security: Protect data from unauthorised access, loss, or damage. This means using strong passwords, encryption, secure cloud storage, and being careful with what you send via email.
Transparency: Be clear with individuals about how you're using their data.
Data Processor Agreements: If you're processing data on behalf of a client, you might need a Data Processor Agreement (DPA) in place with them.

Equally important are client contracts. Never, ever work without a written contract, even if it's just a simple one. A well-drafted contract protects both you and your client by clearly outlining the scope of work, deliverables, timelines, payment terms, intellectual property rights, and dispute resolution mechanisms. This prevents misunderstandings and provides a legal basis if things go awry. You don't need a fancy lawyer for every contract; templates are available, but ensure they are tailored to Irish law and your specific services.

Understanding Irish Business Regulations

While the major hurdles for freelancers are usually tax and immigration, it’s worth being generally aware of other Irish business regulations that might indirectly affect you. For most typical freelancers (e.g., a copywriter or graphic designer), the regulatory burden is relatively low compared to businesses dealing with physical products, employees, or specific licensed professions. However, some areas to consider include:

Consumer Rights: If you offer services directly to consumers, you need to be aware of your obligations under Irish consumer protection law. This typically means providing services with reasonable skill and care, and that they are fit for purpose.
Advertising Standards: Any marketing or advertising you do for your services must be truthful and not misleading, adhering to advertising codes set by the Advertising Standards Authority for Ireland (ASAI).
Health and Safety: If clients visit your home office, or you work on client premises, you have a general duty to ensure their health and safety. While not as stringent as for larger businesses, basic considerations like keeping workspaces clear and safe apply.
Intellectual Property (IP): Understand who owns the IP for the work you create. Your contract should explicitly state whether you retain IP rights or transfer them to the client upon full payment.

For most individual freelancers, these general regulations are less daunting than the tax and immigration aspects, but they are part of operating legally and professionally in Ireland.

Finding Your Niche and Clients in Ireland

Okay, all the legal and financial groundwork is laid. Now for the exciting part: actually getting paid work! It's one thing to be ready to freelance legally, and another entirely to build a thriving business. Finding your feet and your first clients in a new country requires a proactive and strategic approach.

Identifying High-Demand Freelance Skills in the Irish Market

Ireland, particularly Dublin, has a vibrant and growing economy, heavily influenced by multinational tech, pharma, and finance companies. This creates a strong demand for specific freelance skills. To maximise your chances of success, it’s wise to align your offerings with these in-demand areas.

Consider skills related to:

Technology: Web development (front-end, back-end), app development, UI/UX design, cybersecurity, data analysis, IT consulting. Many startups and established tech firms here rely on freelance expertise.
Digital Marketing: SEO, content writing (especially for tech or finance), social media management, PPC advertising, email marketing. Businesses constantly need help reaching their target audiences online.
Creative Services: Graphic design, video editing, photography (for events, products), copywriting, branding. The creative sector supports many businesses' marketing efforts.
Business Support: Virtual assistants, project management, financial consulting, HR support, translation services. Companies, especially SMEs, often outsource these functions.
Language Services: Given Ireland’s international population and the presence of many European HQs, demand for multilingual professionals is consistent. If you're a language teacher, platforms like iTalki could be a direct source of clients, allowing you to teach remotely to students worldwide, including those in Ireland looking to learn your native tongue.

Do some market research. Look at job boards like IrishJobs, LinkedIn, and even specific freelance platforms filtered for Irish clients to see what roles are frequently advertised for contract or temporary work. This will give you a good sense of where your skills can best fit into the local ecosystem. You might also find some relevant insights in The Expat Guide to Finding a Job in Ireland (2027), even though it's focused on traditional employment.

Marketing Yourself and Building a Professional Network

Once you know your niche, you need to tell people about it! Marketing yourself effectively is crucial for a freelancer. This isn't just about shouting into the void; it's about strategically showcasing your expertise and building relationships.

Start with a strong online presence:

Professional Website/Portfolio: This is your digital storefront. Showcase your best work, clearly state your services, and make it easy for potential clients to contact you.
LinkedIn: Optimise your LinkedIn profile to highlight your freelance services, connect with people in your industry, and join relevant Irish professional groups. LinkedIn is a powerful tool in Ireland's business landscape.
Freelance Platforms: Sites like Upwork, Fiverr, or local Irish platforms (if available for your niche) can be a good starting point, especially for finding your first few clients and building a portfolio.

Beyond the digital, networking is king in Ireland. Attend industry events, meetups, and conferences related to your field. Join local expat groups – you never know who might need your services or know someone who does. Word-of-mouth is incredibly powerful here. Don't be shy about telling people what you do and what value you can bring. A simple "I'm a freelance copywriter specialising in tech content" is much more effective than a vague "I do writing stuff." Be clear, be confident, and be consistent.

Utilising Online Platforms and Local Resources

In addition to direct networking and a personal website, several resources can help you land those crucial first clients and continue to grow your freelance business.

Online Freelance Platforms:
These platforms can be a great way to kickstart your freelance career, especially if you're new to Ireland and don't have an established network.

General Platforms: Upwork, Fiverr, PeoplePerHour. These are global platforms where you can bid on projects or offer your services.
Specialised Platforms: For niche skills, look for industry-specific platforms. For example, language tutors can leverage sites like iTalki to connect with students, while designers might use Behance or Dribbble to showcase portfolios.
Remote Job Boards: Websites like FlexJobs or even the remote filters on LinkedIn and Indeed often list contract or freelance roles. Checking out How to Find Remote and Hybrid Jobs Based in Ireland can give you some leads.

Local Irish Resources:

Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs): These government-backed offices are fantastic resources for sole traders and small businesses. They offer training, mentoring, and even financial supports like grants. They have offices in every county and are an invaluable first port of call.
Chambers of Commerce: Joining your local Chamber of Commerce can provide networking opportunities and access to local business insights.
Co-working Spaces: Many cities, especially Dublin, Cork, and Galway, have vibrant co-working spaces. These offer not just a desk but also a community, networking events, and a chance to meet other freelancers and potential clients.
Professional Associations: Join any professional bodies relevant to your industry. They often have resources, directories, and networking opportunities for members.

The key is to explore a mix of these avenues. Don't put all your eggs in one basket. Diversify your client acquisition strategies, and you'll be well on your way to a sustainable freelance career.

Practical Tips for Thriving as an Expat Freelancer in Ireland

Being a freelancer is more than just doing the work; it’s about managing your entire professional and personal life, especially when you’re doing it in a new country. Expats often face unique challenges, so it's essential to proactively address them to ensure long-term success and well-being.

Managing Work-Life Balance and Mental Well-being

One of the biggest myths about freelancing is that it automatically grants you perfect work-life balance. In reality, it can be incredibly easy to let work creep into every corner of your life, especially when you're the sole person responsible for income generation. For expats, this pressure can be compounded by being away from established support networks.

To maintain a healthy balance:

Set Boundaries: Define clear working hours and stick to them. Communicate your availability to clients. When the workday is over, switch off.
Create a Dedicated Workspace: Even if it’s a corner of your living room, having a physical space you associate with work can help you mentally transition in and out of "work mode."
Schedule Downtime: Actively plan for breaks, exercise, hobbies, and social activities. Don't wait until you're burned out. Explore Ireland's stunning natural beauty or vibrant cultural scene.
Build a Support Network: Connect with other expats, join local clubs or groups, and make friends. Having people to talk to, share frustrations with, and celebrate successes can significantly boost your mental well-being. Don't underestimate the power of a good chat over a cuppa or a pint.
Seek Professional Help if Needed: It's okay not to be okay. If you're struggling with stress, anxiety, or loneliness, remember that mental health services are available in Ireland. How to Access Mental Health Services in Ireland as an Expat provides valuable information on this.

Remember, you moved to Ireland for a richer life experience, not just to work. Make time to enjoy it!

Continuous Learning and Skill Development

The freelance market is dynamic and ever-evolving. To stay competitive and relevant, continuous learning is not just a nice-to-have, it's a necessity. As an expat, this can also be a way to adapt your skills to the local market needs and gain an edge.

Stay Updated in Your Niche: Follow industry blogs, subscribe to newsletters, attend webinars, and read books. What were best practices last year might be outdated this year.
Learn New Skills: Identify complementary skills that can expand your service offerings. For example, if you're a writer, learning basic SEO or social media strategy can make you more attractive to clients. If you're a designer, learning a new software tool can open new doors.
Take Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, LinkedIn Learning, and local Irish educational institutions offer a vast array of courses, many of which are specifically designed for professional development.
Practice and Experiment: Don't be afraid to try new things, even if it's on personal projects. This is how you hone your craft and discover new talents.
Learn the Local Nuances: Understanding Irish market trends, consumer behaviour, and even local slang can make your services more relevant and relatable to Irish clients. If you’re a language tutor, learning some Gaeilge (Irish) phrases might just impress potential clients on iTalki!

Investing in yourself is the best investment you can make as a freelancer. It keeps your services fresh, keeps you engaged, and ultimately allows you to charge more for your expertise.

Building a Support System and Community

Moving to Ireland and starting a freelance business simultaneously can feel incredibly isolating. You don't have colleagues in the traditional sense, and the initial phase can be tough. That's why intentionally building a strong support system and community is vital.

Connect with Other Freelancers: Look for online communities, Facebook groups for Irish freelancers, or local meetups. Sharing experiences, challenges, and tips with people who "get it" is invaluable. They can also be a source of referrals or collaborations.
Join Expat Networks: There are numerous expat groups across Ireland, both online and in person. These communities provide a sense of belonging, practical advice, and ready-made social connections.
Find a Mentor: Someone with more experience in freelancing or in your specific industry can offer guidance, advice, and emotional support.
Utilise Your Personal Network: Don't forget your friends and family, even if they're back home. Regular calls or video chats can provide much-needed comfort and perspective.
Engage with Local Communities: Join a sports club, a book group, a volunteer organisation, or a class. Integrating into local Irish life beyond your work can significantly enhance your experience and well-being.

Having a robust network, both professional and personal, will not only help you navigate the ups and downs of freelancing but will also enrich your overall experience of living in Ireland. It truly makes the journey so much more enjoyable and sustainable.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this guide is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or tax advice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, regulations and laws in Ireland can change. Expats are strongly advised to seek independent professional advice from qualified legal, immigration, tax, and financial advisors regarding their specific circumstances before making any decisions related to freelancing or business operations in Ireland.