The Ireland Start-Up Entrepreneur Visa (STEP) is designed for entrepreneurs looking to start a business in Ireland. It focuses on supporting innovative businesses with strong potential for growth, job creation, and international expansion. The program is ideal for businesses in sectors like technology, green industries, or health.
The benefits of the STEP visa include residency for the entrepreneur and their family, the opportunity to grow a business in a supportive environment, and the possibility of applying for permanent residency and citizenship over time.
This guide will explain everything you need to know about the Ireland STEP Visa, including eligibility, investment requirements, the application process, and the timeline to citizenship.
Here is more of what we will cover:
- What is the Ireland Start-up Entrepreneur Visa?
- Benefits of the Ireland Start-up Entrepreneur Program (STEP)
- Eligibility Requirements for the Ireland Start-up Entrepreneur Visa
- Preferred Business Sectors for the STEP Visa
- Required Documents for the Ireland Start-Up Entrepreneur Visa
- Investment Options for the Ireland STEP Visa
- Step-by-Step Application Process for the Ireland Start-Up Entrepreneur Visa
- Can family members be included in the Ireland STEP Visa application?
- Fees and Costs for the Ireland Start-Up Entrepreneur Visa
- Residency requirements for the Ireland Start-Up Entrepreneur Visa
- Taxation in Ireland
- Processing Time and Timeline to Citizenship
What is the Ireland Start-up Entrepreneur Visa?
Ireland’s Start-up Entrepreneur Program (STEP) Visa aims to attract entrepreneurs from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) who want to start innovative businesses in Ireland. To apply, applicants need to have at least €50,000 in funding and a business idea that is unique, scalable, and has the potential to create jobs and target international markets. If approved, applicants receive a two-year residency permit, which can be renewed if the business is successful. This program encourages economic growth by bringing new, innovative businesses to Ireland, and it could eventually lead to long-term residency or citizenship.
Benefits of the Ireland Start-up Entrepreneur Program
Residency permission
Residency permissionApplicants are granted five years of residence in Ireland under the STEP visa.
Pathway to permanent residency
Pathway to permanent residencySTEP grants a Stamp 4 visa to successful applicants, allowing them and their families to live and work in Ireland for an initial two years, extendable for an additional three years. This can eventually lead to long-term residence or citizenship in Ireland.
Opportunity for citizenship
Opportunity for citizenshipIn many cases, successful applicants may also become eligible for Irish citizenship, allowing for dual citizenship.
Family inclusion
Family inclusionThe program allows the applicant’s family members to join, giving them similar residency rights to ensure family unity.
Access to the EU market
As Ireland is part of the EU, STEP visa holders can do business throughout the European Union, which helps expand their market opportunities.
Support for start-ups
Support for start-upsThe program is specifically designed for entrepreneurs, providing access to business networks, resources, and funding opportunities.
Pro-business environment
Pro-business environmentIreland’s favorable tax regime and strong support systems make it an attractive destination for start-ups and growing businesses.
Eligibility Requirements for the Ireland Start-up Entrepreneur Visa
Business idea
Applicants must have a scalable, high-potential business idea that introduces an innovative product or service targeting international markets. The business must have the potential to generate significant revenue and create jobs in Ireland.
Funding
To start your business, you must have at least €50,000 in funding. This can come from personal resources, loans, business angel funding, venture capital, or grants from Irish state agencies.
Business structure
The business can be established as a Limited Company in Ireland, which aligns with the STEP program’s focus on innovation and high growth.
Job creation
The business is expected to create at least 10 jobs in Ireland and reach €1 million in sales within the first three years.
Other requirements
Applicants must demonstrate their entrepreneurial experience or managerial skills and the ability to run a business. The program is open to non-EEA nationals. Applicants must have also have a comprehensive health insurance cover.
Investment Options for the Ireland STEP Visa
Individual applicants
You must secure €50,000 in funding for your start-up. This funding can come from:
- Personal savings
- A business loan
- Business angel or venture capital funding
- A grant from an Irish government agency
Multiple principals
- If there are other main founders (not family members) in your business, each must secure at least €30,000 in funding.
- The funds must be available and transferable to a financial institution regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.
Funds through a limited Company
You can invest in a Limited Company registered in Ireland as long as your business meets the innovation and growth requirements.
Gifted Funds
- You can use gifted funds if they are legally obtained and transferable to Ireland. You need to provide:
- Proof of the source of the funds.
- A letter from a regulated financial institution confirming that the funds are in your name and can be transferred to Ireland.
Preferred Business Sectors for the STEP Visa
The Ireland STEP Visa focuses on innovative, high-growth businesses designed to enter global markets. Businesses must be capable of creating at least 10 jobs and generating €1 million in sales within three years.
Eligible sectors
Here are the main industries encouraged under the program:
- Technology & Innovation: Software, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, Cybersecurity, and Blockchain.
- Life Sciences & Healthcare: Biotech, MedTech, and HealthTech.
- Green & Sustainable Solutions: Renewable energy, Cleantech, and Sustainability initiatives.
- AgriTech: Innovations in food technology and precision agriculture.
- Advanced Manufacturing: Robotics and Smart manufacturing.
- Digital Media: Gaming and Digital content creation.
Excluded sectors
Retail, catering, and personal services businesses are not eligible. The STEP Visa is specifically tailored to attract businesses that bring innovation and economic impact through international market focus.
Required Documents for the Ireland Start-Up Entrepreneur Visa
A valid passport issued within the last 10 years and valid for the duration of your stay.- Proof of €50,000 in funding, such as recent bank statements or investment letters.
- A clear and realistic business plan, with financial projections for the next 2-5 years.
- An up-to-date CV, showing your education and work experience.
- Letters of support or references for your business idea, ideally within the last 6 months.
- Proof of relevant qualifications, like certificates or diplomas.
- A police clearance certificate confirming no criminal record, valid for 3-6 months.
A valid passport issued within the last 10 years and valid for the duration of your stay.Documents needed for in-country registration upon entry to Ireland
- A valid passport is used to enter Ireland.
- Visa approval notification, if applicable.
- Proof of address in Ireland, such as a utility bill or bank statement from the last three months.
- Two passport-sized photos that meet Irish visa photo requirements.
- A completed registration form for the Irish Residence Permit (IRP), is available at the IRP office.
Step-by-Step Application Process for the Ireland Start-Up Entrepreneur Visa
1. Check eligibility
Make sure you meet the basic requirements, such as having a strong business idea and at least €50,000 in funding.
2. Create a business plan
Prepare a comprehensive business plan, including your business model, target market, financial projections, and how you’ll meet the €50,000 funding requirement.
3. Gather documents
Collect all necessary documents for your application. The new business is likely to also require a business bank account.
4. Complete the application
Fill out the online application form on the Irish Naturalization and Immigration Service (INIS) website.
5. Pay the application fee
Pay the non-refundable application fee.
6. Submit your application
Submit your completed application form and documents online or by post, as required.
7. Wait for processing
Your application will typically be processed in 6 to 8 weeks. You may be asked for additional information or an interview.
8. Receive a decision
You’ll be notified by email once a decision is made. If approved, you’ll get instructions on how to proceed.
9. Get your visa
If your application is approved, visit an Irish embassy or consulate to have your visa stamped in your passport.
10. Travel to Ireland
After receiving your visa, you can travel to Ireland and start your business.
11. Register for IRP
Upon arrival, register with the Irish Residence Permit (IRP) office within 90 days to get your residence permit.
12. Collect your IRP
Attend your appointment to collect your IRP card, which confirms your legal residency status in Ireland.
Physical presence during application: For the out of country visa application process, an individual completes the process outside Ireland. However, for the collection of IRP, the applicant must be physically present in Ireland to complete the registration process. This includes attending an appointment at the IRP office to provide biometrics and collect the IRP card
Can family members be included in the Ireland STEP Visa application?
Yes, family members can be included in the Ireland STEP Visa application. This includes the spouse, de facto (common-law) partner, and children under 18 years old. They can apply alongside the main applicant or later if they are traveling to Ireland at a different time. If a new family member, like a newborn, joins later, they will need to provide proof of their relationship to the main applicant.
Fees and Costs for the Ireland Start-Up Entrepreneur Visa
Fee Type | Amount | Description |
Application Fee (STEP) | €350 | A non-refundable fee will be charged to the principal applicant and all nominated family members. |
Visa Fee (for visa-required nationals) | €100 (Multiple Entry) | Fee for obtaining an entry visa to Ireland if applicable (varies by visa type). |
Irish Residence Permit (IRP) Fee | €300 | The fee for registering your residency and obtaining the IRP card confirms your legal status in Ireland. |
Affidavit of Good Character | Varies | The fee for obtaining the affidavit must be produced by a legal practitioner registered in Ireland. |
Medical Insurance | Varies | Private health insurance is required for the applicant and family members during residency. |
Renewal Fee (IRP) | €300 | The fee for renewing the IRP after the initial residency period is applicable every time the permit is renewed. |
Additional Legal/Consultancy Fees | Varies | Legal and business consultancy fees associated with preparing the business plan, financial setup, etc. |
Taxation in Ireland
Holding the STEP visa does not automatically make you a tax resident in Ireland. Tax residency in Ireland is determined by the individual’s physical presence in the country, not solely by holding a specific visa.
Condition | Description |
183-Day Rule | Considered a tax resident if you spend 183 days or more in Ireland during the tax year (January 1 - December 31). |
280-Day Rule | Alternatively, consider a tax resident if you spend 280 days or more in Ireland over two consecutive years, with at least 30 days in each year. |
Domicile and Ordinary Residence | Domicile and Ordinary Residence |
Tax Year Definition | The Irish tax year runs from January 1 to December 31. The residency tests apply to this period. |
Non-Resident Taxation | Non-residents are taxed only on income sourced from Ireland (e.g., income from an Irish employer or Irish property). |
Day Count | Any part of a day spent in Ireland counts as a full day for residency purposes. |
Tie-Breaker Rules | In case of dual residency, tax treaties may provide rules to determine primary tax residency |
Residency requirements for the Ireland Start-Up Entrepreneur Visa
The Ireland STEP visa grants temporary residency with the option to renew, as long as the applicant meets specific conditions. To maintain residency, the business must remain viable and scalable, while the applicant must comply with immigration rules and meet financial and business obligations.
This is what the validity for the permits and renewable timeline looks like:
Category | Details |
Initial residence permit validity | 2 years |
Renewal duration | 3 years (after the initial 2 years) |
Total potential validity | 5 years (2 years initial + 3 years extension) |
Renewal requirement | - Business must be operational and viable |
Long-term residency | After 5 years, eligible to apply for long-term residency in Ireland or citizenship if requirements are met. |
STEP Visa Processing Time and Timeline to Citizenship
Please note that the processing times are at the discretion of the Irish authorities and are subject to change.
- Initial STEP Visa application: 2-3 months
- STEP Visa duration: 2 years
- Visa renewal (if applicable): 2-3 months
- Total residency requirement: 5 years
- Citizenship application: 6-12 months
- Passport application: 4-6 weeks
- Total time like to citizenship: Six to seven years
How Can Global Citizen Solutions Help You?
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Frequently Asked Questions about the Ireland Start-Up Entrepreneur Visa
What is the Ireland STEP Visa?
The Ireland STEP Visa (Start-Up Entrepreneur Program is designed for innovative entrepreneurs who want to establish a business in Ireland, requiring a minimum investment of €50,000.
What are the eligibility requirements?
Applicants must propose a high-potential start-up in Ireland, provide a detailed business plan, and demonstrate sufficient funds for investment and living expenses.
Can family members be included?
Yes, dependents such as spouses, partners, and children under 18 can be included and apply either simultaneously or later.
What is the visa's duration?
Initial residence permit is granted for five years, with the potential for long-term residence thereafter.
What is the minimum investment required?
Applicants must invest at least €50,000 of their own funds into their start-up.
What kind of business qualifies?
The business must be innovative, scalable, and export-focused, with high growth potential in technology or other innovative industries.
What documents are required?
Key documents include a detailed business plan, proof of investment funds, and evidence of the start-up’s potential to create jobs and generate revenue.
