Ireland’s Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) is an immigration pathway that enables non-EEA nationals to establish a high-potential start-up in Ireland and obtain residence permission to do so.
The programme is designed to attract innovative entrepreneurs capable of contributing to Ireland’s employment growth and economic development.
The STEP programme is administered by the Irish Department of Justice. Applications are submitted online and assessed by an independent evaluation committee, which makes recommendations to the Minister for Justice.
What is the STEP Programme?
The STEP programme provides residence permission to non-EEA nationals who establish a High Potential Start-Up (HPSU) in Ireland. The business must demonstrate:
- Potential for international growth
- Innovation and scalability
- Capacity to create employment in Ireland
- Alignment with Ireland’s enterprise development objectives
This route is not intended for small local service businesses. Applicants must demonstrate access to a minimum of €50,000 in funding for their proposed start-up.
Residence Permission Granted
Successful applicants are granted:
- 2 years initial residence permission
- Renewable for an additional 3 years (subject to compliance)
After 5 years of legal residence, applicants may be eligible for long-term residency.
Family Members
Residency under STEP may also be granted to:
- Spouse or partner
- Dependant children under 18
Conditions Attached to STEP Permission
Applicants must:
- Establish the business as outlined in the approved proposal
- Work full-time in the business
- Not undertake employment outside the approved enterprise
- Not become a financial burden on the Irish State
- Maintain good character
Failure to comply may affect renewal eligibility.
Why Consider Ireland for Entrepreneurial Expansion?
Ireland offers:
- Access to EU markets
- Corporate tax advantages
- Strong start-up ecosystem
- English-speaking business environment
- Government support for innovation and technology sectors
The STEP programme is selective and approval is not guaranteed, even where eligibility criteria are met.
Why Hudson McKenzie
Hudson McKenzie provides structured immigration advisory for entrepreneurs and founders seeking residence pathways in Europe. Our approach includes:
- HPSU eligibility assessment
- Business proposal alignment review
- Funding structure guidance
- Documentation oversight
- Compliance advisory support
For founders seeking to expand into Ireland, early legal structuring and regulatory planning can significantly improve application positioning.
Speak to an Ireland Entrepreneur Immigration Lawyer
If you are considering the Ireland Start-up Entrepreneur Programme, our team can provide structured eligibility assessment and application advisory support. Please get in touch with us at HudsonVIP@hudsonmckenzie.com to know more about this programme.
Ireland STEP applications require careful structuring and regulatory planning. Early strategic advice can significantly reduce delays and compliance risks. Given the competitive and selective nature of the STEP programme, early legal and commercial structuring is strongly recommended. Contact us to arrange a private consultation.
