Ireland•EuropeStart-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) Visa
At a Glance
Processing Time
84-112 days
Application Fee
350 EUR
Stay Duration
2 years
Renewable
Yes
Job Offer
Not Required
Dependents
Allowed
PR Pathway
Available
This visa can lead to permanent residency — the right to live and work here indefinitely without renewing your visa.Remote Work
Not Required
Overview
Visa for non-EEA entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas and €50,000 minimum investment. Target: jobs creation and €1M+ sales within 3-4 years.
The Start-up Entrepreneur Programme targets innovative entrepreneurs with viable business ideas and adequate capital. The business must be scalable, innovative, and have potential to create jobs. Traditional retail and personal services excluded. After 5 years, entrepreneurs can apply for long-term residence.
Check Your Eligibility
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Requirements
Financial
Minimum Savings
50,000 EUR
Investment Required
50,000 EUR
Excluded Nationalities
Citizens of the following countries are not eligible: AT, BE, BG, HR, CY, CZ, DK, EE, FI, FR, DE, GR, HU, IE, IT, LV, LT, LU, MT, NL, PL, PT, RO, SK, SI, ES, SE, IS, LI, NO, CH, RU, BY
Documentation
Applicant Documents
Valid passport
6+ months validity
Business plan
Comprehensive innovative business plan
Financial projections
3-4 year revenue and job creation forecasts
Proof of funds
€50,000 investment capital
CV/background
Business experience and qualifications
Bank statements
Source of investment funds
No criminal record
Criminal record certificate from home country
Health insurance
Comprehensive medical coverage
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Advantages
- Clear path to permanent residency
- €50,000 investment capital available for business
- Self-employment option
- Family can join
- 5-year PR pathway
Considerations
- Must prove innovation and job creation potential
- Retail/personal services excluded
- €50,000 capital requirement
- Competitive selection process
- Business must be in Ireland
- 12-16 week processing
Application Process
Develop business plan
Create comprehensive plan for innovative business
Secure €50,000 funding
From personal resources, loan, angels, or VC
Prepare application
Gather business plan and financial documentation
Apply to embassy
Submit application to Irish embassy/consulate
Visa processing
Typically 12-16 weeks
Receive visa
Obtain long-stay business visa
Establish business
Register company and begin operations in Ireland
Application Forms
STEP Visa Application Form
Ready to Apply?
Check your eligibility first to see how well you match this visa