Ireland•Europe2–3 months
€350 EUR
Varies by filing options
2 years
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Dependents allowed
PR Pathway
Yes
Sponsor
No job offer needed
Work
Remote not required
Irish residence for non-EEA founders of high-potential start-ups backed by €50,000+ in funding.
Ireland's Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP), run by Immigration Service Delivery since 2012, grants residence to non-EEA founders of High Potential Start-Ups capable of 10 Irish jobs and €1 million in turnover within three to four years. The innovation-led business must be headquartered and controlled in Ireland, with at least €50,000 in evidenced funding.
Successful applicants get Stamp 1 for 2 years initially, renewable for 3 more years; long-term residence is available after 5 years. The non-refundable €350 application fee is paid by electronic transfer, and proposals are reviewed quarterly by an independent committee. Immediate family receive matching residence and the spouse may work without restriction.
This visa is ideal for non-EEA founders of innovation-led, internationally scalable ventures in tech, life sciences, fintech, or advanced manufacturing with at least €50,000 in funding.
| Initial grant | 2 years |
Must be a non-EEA national with an innovative business idea.
Must have secured funding of at least €50,000 for the start-up venture.
The business must be a High Potential Start-Up (HPSU) capable of creating 10 jobs in Ireland and reaching €1 million in sales within 3-4 years.
The business must be headquartered and controlled in Ireland.
Applicant must be a founder or main decision-maker (e.g., CEO, CTO).
Must be of good character and have no criminal convictions.
Must work on the business on a full-time basis.
Investment
50,000 EUR
Valid passport
Business plan
Financial projections
Proof of funds
CV/background
Bank statements
No criminal record
Health insurance
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