Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP)
Non-EEA founders of an innovative, high-potential start-up with funding who want to set up in Ireland.
The Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) is a Irish business, talent & investor visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (No application fee (~€300 IRP card on approval)) and processing time (Assessed in periodic evaluation rounds), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) is for
Non-EEA founders of an innovative, high-potential start-up with funding who want to set up in Ireland.
Successful entrepreneurs can progress to long term residence and citizenship.
Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) - eligibility criteria
- Innovative, scalable High Potential Start-Up idea
- Minimum €50,000 in funding for a single founder
- Business in a knowledge-intensive or internationally traded sector
- Capable of creating jobs and exports
- Good character and sufficient personal funds
Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) (Ireland) is No application fee (~€300 IRP card on approval), with an indicative processing time of Assessed in periodic evaluation rounds. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at Irish Immigration Service.
| Type | Entrepreneur residence |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Apply to ISD (evaluation committee rounds) |
| Length of stay | 2 years initially, then 3-year renewal |
| Work rights | Run your own qualifying start-up business |
| Study rights | Permitted alongside the business |
| Government fee | No application fee (~€300 IRP card on approval) |
| Processing time | Assessed in periodic evaluation rounds |
| Route to PR | Successful entrepreneurs can progress to long term residence and citizenship. |
Pathway & next steps
Successful entrepreneurs can progress to long term residence and citizenship.
Many applicants also compare IIP · Immigrant Investor Programme (IIP), LTR · Long Term Residence, Stamp 4 · Stamp 4 Immigration Permission. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Irish route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) pitfalls we fix
Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) cost?
The Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) government fee is No application fee (~€300 IRP card on approval). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at Irish Immigration Service before applying.
How long does the Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) take to process?
Indicative processing time is Assessed in periodic evaluation rounds. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) lead to permanent residence?
Successful entrepreneurs can progress to long term residence and citizenship.
Can I work on the Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP)?
Work rights: Run your own qualifying start-up business.
Who can apply for the Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP)?
Non-EEA founders of an innovative, high-potential start-up with funding who want to set up in Ireland.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Ireland government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- Irish Immigration Service - official Ireland immigration authority