Ireland Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) | Startup Visa for Non-EEA Founders
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. Often referred to as the Ireland entrepreneur visa or startup visa, the STEP programme is the primary immigration route for non-EEA nationals seeking to establish a business in Ireland.
The programme is designed to attract innovative entrepreneurs capable of contributing to Ireland’s employment growth and economic development. The STEP programme requirements remain unchanged for 2026. The minimum funding threshold of €50,000 and the HPSU criteria apply as set out on this page.
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 such as cafés, retail shops or locally focused service businesses. Applicants must demonstrate access to a minimum of €50,000 in funding for their proposed start-up.
Ireland Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) – Key Benefits, Eligibility Requirements & Application Process
Key Benefits
Eligibility Requirements
Application Process
Conditions Attached to STEP Permission
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
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. The programme receives significantly more applications than it approves — strong commercial viability, a credible management team and a clearly differentiated proposition are essential to a competitive application.
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. The STEP programme is a great pathway for ambitious non-EEA nationals keen on establishing an innovative business in Ireland. However, the programme is very selective, and meeting all eligibility criteria will still not guarantee approval.
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 info@hudsonmckenzie.com to know more about this programme.
Ireland STEP applications require careful structuring and regulatory planning. The programme receives significantly more applications than it approves — strong commercial viability, a credible management team and a clearly differentiated proposition are essential to a competitive application. 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.
