The online register is being established under the Regulation of Lobbying Act 2015 and will provide a log of activities carried out by all lobby groups.
It means that lobbying can no longer be carried out behind closed doors, with the details of who met whom available for public view.
Returns of lobbying activity will have to be lodged every four months, with the first returns due by 21 January 2016.
Speaking at the launch of the register on Thursday, Chairman of the Standards Commission, Mr Justice Daniel O’Keeffe said the register is essential for transparency.
“This is a welcome development in public policy in Ireland. Active lobbying is an essential component to a well-functioning democracy. It is vital, however, that it be open and transparent," he said.
Meanwhile, the Irish Farmers Association (IFA) said the new legislation should not have a negative impact on the work being carried out by lobbyists.
"IFA’s view is that lobbying is a legitimate activity which plays an important role in the efficient functioning of a modern democracy. It is essential therefore, that the new legislation does not place excessive, impractical or costly requirements on bodies engaged in legitimate lobbying," said a spokesperson for the organisation.
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