IRELAND

Ireland’s Start-up Entrepreneur Program (STEP)

Ireland’s Start-up Entrepreneur Program (STEP) allows non-EEA nationals to establish an innovative business in Ireland and gain residency rights for themselves and their families. The program is designed to attract high-potential entrepreneurs who can contribute to Ireland’s economy and innovation ecosystem. The STEP scheme enables entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas and sufficient funding to launch and operate a start-up in Ireland while obtaining legal residency.

Key Objective

  • To support high-potential start-ups that create jobs, introduce innovation, and scale internationally.
Key Benefits
  • Residency permission in Ireland for the applicant and immediate family
  • Access to the EU market and business environment
  • Ability to live, work, and run a business in Ireland
  • Pathway to long-term residency and citizenship eligibility
  • Access to Ireland’s strong tech, finance, and innovation ecosystem
Eligibility Requirements
  • Be a non-EEA national
  • Propose a High Potential Start-Up (HPSU)
  •  Have a minimum funding of €50,000 available for the business
  • Demonstrate a viable and scalable business model
  • Show potential to create jobs and generate revenue internationally
  •  Have a clean criminal record and good character
Investment Requirement
  • Minimum investment: €50,000
  •  Funding can come from:
  •  Personal funds
  •  Business partners
  •  Angel investors
  •  Venture capital funding
Required Documents
  • Detailed business plan
  • Proof of funding (€50,000 minimum)
  •  Passport & identification documents
  •  Police clearance certificate
  • Evidence of business experience
  •  Financial projections & market analysis

Residency Permission

Successful applicants receive:

  • Initial Residence Permission: 2 years
  • Renewal: Additional 3 years
  • After 5 years: Eligible for long-term residency
  • Citizenship: Possible after meeting residency requirements
  • Family members (spouse & children) can join and reside in Ireland.

Ireland – Immigrant Investor Programme (IIP)

Ireland’s Immigrant Investor Program (IIP) is one of the most reputable in Europe. With options like €1 million investment in an Irish enterprise, €2 million in REITs, or a €500,000 donation to public projects, investors can obtain residency within months. Ireland offers an English-speaking environment, low corporate tax rates (12.5%), and strong global business ties. Residency is renewable and leads to permanent residency after 5 years, with eligibility for citizenship after the same period if residence requirements are met, subject to residence requirements. Ireland’s combination of stability, EU access, and international connectivity makes it a prime choice.

Investment Options:

  • €1M in Irish enterprise (3 years)
  • €2M in Irish REITs
  • €500,000 philanthropic donation

Key Benefits:

  • Residency approval in 4–6 months
  • Citizenship after 5 years
  • English-speaking business hub
  • 12.5% corporate tax rate

Eligibility:

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens
  • Proven financial capacity
  • Clean criminal record

Process:

  • Select investment option
  • Apply to Irish Naturalisation & Immigration Service (INIS)
  • Receive approval
  • Make investment and receive residence permit