Last updated on June 5th, 2023 at 09:36 am
We usually advice clients to submit three alternative names for approval by the Registrar of Companies.
Choosing the right company name depends on a host of considerations – some as obvious as the kind of business you do, others as unique as your own tastes and style. There are, however, a few guidelines that will steer you in the right direction. A good company name should:
- be distinctive
- be memorable
- be easily spelled and pronounced
- suggest the products or services you offer, and
- distinguish you from your competitors.
In addition the following rules apply by the Registrar of Companies when examining company names:
- The name is already on the register.
- it is offensive;
- its use would be a criminal offence.
- it is deceptive
- it implies that there is a relationship with the government.
- Only in special cases and upon certain conditions, names that include the following words will be approved: NATIONAL, INTERNATIONAL, DEMOCRATIC, EUROPEAN UNION, EUROPE, EURO.
- The name should not include the words COOPERATIVE, MUNICIPAL, PRIVILAGED or RECOGNISED.
- Names that include the following words will be approved in exceptional cases: BANK, BANKING, INVESTMENT, TRUST, INSURANCE, BROKER.
Before you apply to set up a company, or do anything to change its name, it is a good idea to contact us to see if there are already any companies with names similar to the one you want.
Currently the Registrar of Companies needs around 2 working days to examine and approve/reject a company name.
To check whether your desired name is available please send us an email here
