By the end of this article, you’ll understand who qualifies for Ireland’s Startup Entrepreneur Programme (STEP), how to apply, and what unique advantages it offers compared to other migration routes.

What Is the Startup Entrepreneur Programme?

Ireland’s Startup Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) allows non-EEA founders to launch high-potential businesses on Irish soil. Launched in 2012 to attract global entrepreneurial talent, STEP has become a key component of Ireland’s drive to become a leading innovation hub, as detailed on Enterprise Ireland’s support for startups page.

Key Features

• Open to early-stage founders with scalable ideas
• Initial permission for two years, renewable for three more
• Access to Enterprise Ireland supports

Who Can Apply?

To qualify, you must:

1. Be a non-EEA national
2. Hold at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience
3. Present an original business concept with strong growth potential
4. Secure a minimum of €50,000 in funding or personal resources, in accordance with the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service’s €50,000 funding requirement
5. Demonstrate you won’t become a burden on the state

Funding: Sources and Flexibility

The required €50,000 can come from:

• Personal savings
• Angel investors
• Venture capital firms
• Bank loans

This range of options gives you room to tailor investment to your model.

Application Process and Timeline

Step-by-Step Overview

1. Prepare a detailed business plan (focus on innovation, market size, job creation)
2. Gather supporting documents (degree certificates, bank statements, police clearances)
3. Submit your application online via the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) portal
4. Attend an interview at an Irish embassy or consulate (if required)
5. Receive an initial decision within 8–12 weeks

Required Documentation

• Police certificate from each country where you’ve lived more than six months in the last ten years, as outlined by the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs’ Certificates of Character guidelines
• Proof of health insurance covering you and any dependents
• Audited financial statements (if relocating an existing business)

What Happens After Approval?

Once approved, you can:

• Relocate immediately and set up your company
• Employ staff, with a view to creating at least 10 jobs over three years
• Access Enterprise Ireland’s startup package grants and mentoring services

A two-year permission is granted initially, and if your venture progresses, you can extend for another three years.

Family Inclusion and Self-Sufficiency

One of STEP’s standout features is that you can bring:

• Your spouse or partner
• Children under 18

You must prove your family’s health insurance and that you can support them without recourse to public funds.

Sector Focus: Aligning with Ireland’s Economy

While STEP is sector-agnostic, authorities emphasize these areas:

• Technology (software, AI, fintech)
• Life sciences (biotech, medtech)
• Internationally traded services (digital marketing, remote consulting)

This aligns with Ireland’s broader strategy to strengthen export-driven industries.

Pathway to Residency and Citizenship

STEP isn’t just a temporary stay. After five years of legal residence you can apply for:

• Long-term residency (Stamp 4) via the Long-Term Residency (Stamp 4) guide by Citizens Information
• Irish citizenship via naturalization

This makes Ireland an appealing long-run base for your venture and family.

Shifting Gears: From Golden Visas to STEP

In 2023, Ireland ended its Immigrant Investor Programme (often called the “golden visa”), making STEP the primary pathway for entrepreneurial migrants, as reported in the Irish Tech News report on the discontinuation of the Immigrant Investor Programme.

“By focusing on entrepreneurs who bring jobs and innovation, Ireland positions itself to remain competitive in a global economy.” – Enterprise Ireland

STEP Application Checklist

• [ ] Completed INIS online form
• [ ] Business plan (innovation, scalability, job creation)
• [ ] Proof of €50,000 funding
• [ ] Police clearance certificates
• [ ] Health insurance for family
• [ ] Academic and professional credentials

Your Next Move

Securing a STEP visa takes preparation, but the prize is a dynamic European base for your startup. Gather your documents, refine your pitch, and get ready to join Ireland’s thriving entrepreneurial community.

Ready, Set, Launch!

I hope this guide gives you a clear roadmap. Now it’s your turn to turn an idea into a thriving Irish business. Best of luck on your journey to building something big!