Ireland’s Start up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP)
- Alan Kearney
- Feb 11
- 2 min read
What STEP Is
The Start‑up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) is Ireland’s official residency route for non‑EEA founders who want to establish an innovative, internationally scalable business in the State. It provides a Stamp 4 residence permission (full work and business rights) for the founder and their family.
STEP is designed to attract founders who can build High Potential Start‑Ups (HPSUs) capable of creating jobs, generating export revenue, and contributing to Ireland’s innovation ecosystem.
Who the Programme Is For
STEP is suitable for founders who can demonstrate:
Eligibility
A minimum of €50,000 in funding for the first founder
A new or early‑stage business (less than 5 years old)
A product or service that is innovative, scalable, and internationally traded
A credible plan to create 10 jobs and reach €1m+ in revenue within 3–4 years
A full‑time commitment to the venture
A clean immigration and criminal record
Not suitable for
Retail, hospitality, personal services, or other local‑market businesses
Passive investors
Founders seeking part‑time residency or employment outside the start‑up
What STEP Offers
Residency
Stamp 4 for 2 years (renewable for 3 more)
Permission for spouse/partner and dependent children
A pathway to long‑term residency and ultimately citizenship
Business Advantages
Access to Ireland’s EU single market
A base in a globally recognised tech and innovation hub
Proximity to multinationals, accelerators, and venture networks
Potential alignment with Enterprise Ireland supports (subject to separate assessment)
Funding Requirements
The founder must show €50,000 in available funding.Acceptable sources include:
Personal funds
Angel investment
VC investment
Accelerator or incubator funding
Additional founders require additional funding, but the threshold remains comparatively low versus other jurisdictions.
Application Process
Applications are accepted year‑round and assessed quarterly.
Steps
Prepare documentation (business plan, financials, CV, proof of funds, passport, etc.)
Submit online application and pay the fee
Evaluation committee review
Possible request for clarifications or additional evidence
Ministerial decision
Residence permission issued upon approval
If refused, applicants receive written reasons and may reapply.
What a Strong Application Looks Like
Founders who succeed typically demonstrate:
A compelling business case
Clear articulation of the problem, solution, and market opportunity
Evidence of innovation (IP, technology, methodology, or market disruption)
A credible go‑to‑market strategy
Realistic financial projections
A clear scaling pathway
Founder credibility
Relevant experience and track record
Ability to execute the plan
Commitment to establishing the business in Ireland
Operational readiness
Plans for Irish incorporation
Early customer validation or traction
Engagement with Irish ecosystem actors (accelerators, EI, universities, etc.)
Conditions After Approval
Founders must:
Establish and run the business as proposed
Work full‑time on the venture
Not take up outside employment
Maintain financial independence
Comply with Irish law and immigration conditions
Failure to meet these conditions can affect renewal.
Why Ireland?
Ireland offers a combination of advantages that make it particularly attractive for global founders:
Strategic
English‑speaking EU member
Strong legal and regulatory environment
Gateway to European and transatlantic markets
Commercial
Deep talent pool
Access to multinational customers and partners
Strong venture and accelerator ecosystem
Lifestyle
High quality of life
Safe, stable, and internationally connected
Attractive for relocating families
Founder Checklist
A STEP‑ready founder should have:
A validated business idea
A clear innovation narrative
€50k+ in available funds
A strong business plan and pitch deck
Evidence of market research
A credible financial model
A plan for Irish operations
A willingness to relocate and build in Ireland
Comments