Ireland STEP
Ireland
Residency
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See if you're a match →This residence pathway is for founders building a startup or innovative business in Ireland. It generally requires an eligible business idea, enough funding or support, and approval through the country's startup process.
- Type
- Startup residence
- Startup fit
- Founders building an approved startup in Ireland
- Core requirements
- Startup approval, business plan, and funding proof
- What to know
- Approval can depend on official judgment or program space
Summary
Ireland's Start-up Entrepreneur Programme, often called STEP, is for non-EU/non-UK founders who want to build an innovative business in Ireland and live there while doing it. It is meant for a real start-up with growth potential, not an ordinary local service business or a passive investment.
British citizens normally do not need this route because Common Travel Area rules let British and Irish citizens live and work in each other's country.
Eligibility
You may be a fit if:
- You have an innovative business proposal.
- You have at least €50,000 in funding available for the business.
- You can show the source of those funds.
- You are of good character and have not been convicted of criminal offences.
- You are ready to work on the Irish business full time.
- You will not take other employment while on this permission.
Ireland reviews STEP proposals through an evaluation process. A strong proposal should explain what the business does, why it is innovative, why Ireland is the right base, how it can grow, and how the funds will support the business.
What This Route Allows
If approved, STEP can allow you to live in Ireland and work on the approved start-up business. The permission is tied to the business plan you submitted, so the business needs to be real and active.
What This Route Is Not
This is not a route for freelancing, consulting, ordinary retail, local services, or buying a small business without an innovative start-up angle. It is also not a general work permission; STEP holders are not allowed to be employed in another capacity.
Approval is discretionary. Having €50,000 and a business idea is not enough by itself.
Next Steps
- Write a plain, detailed business plan for the Irish start-up.
- Confirm that the business is genuinely innovative and scalable.
- Gather proof that at least €50,000 is available and lawfully sourced.
- Prepare evidence of your background, good character, and ability to build the business.
- Submit the STEP application and supporting documents to Immigration Service Delivery.
- Pay the application fee listed by ISD.
- If approved, follow ISD's instructions for entry, registration, and operating the business in Ireland.