🇮🇪 Ireland start-up residence · For entrepreneurs
Ireland start-up residence permit
The Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) for entrepreneurs from outside the EEA. A low entry threshold, low corporate tax and a path to citizenship.
Ireland is a country with a fast-growing economy, a friendly business climate and one of the lowest corporate tax rates in Europe. The STEP program opens a path to residence for entrepreneurs from outside the European Economic Area who launch a startup.
Legal grounds
The Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) is designed for entrepreneurs ready to build an innovative, high-potential startup in Ireland. The main conditions:
- An innovative project. The business has to offer a new or improved product or service aimed at international markets.
- Financial requirements. You need at least €50,000 to invest in the startup. If there are several founders, each one contributes at least €30,000.
- A business plan. You need a detailed plan showing the potential to create 10 jobs in Ireland and reach €1 million in turnover within 3-4 years of launch.
On a free consultation we review your project and tell you honestly whether STEP is right for you.
Benefits of the Ireland start-up residence permit
A path to citizenship
After five years of living in Ireland, foreigners can apply for Irish citizenship.
Residence for the whole family
The applicant's family members get the right to live, study and work in Ireland.
No job creation obligations at the start
There are no strict job creation requirements in the first two years - you can focus on growing the business.
Low corporate tax
The corporate tax rate in Ireland is 12.5%, one of the lowest in Europe.
How to get the Ireland start-up residence permit: step by step
Writing the business plan
You prepare a detailed plan: how the project is innovative, the target markets and the financial projections.
Preparing the documents
You collect proof of funds, personal documents and details of your previous work experience.
Filing the application
You send the application and the supporting documents to the Irish Department of Justice and Equality.
Waiting for a decision
The application is reviewed within 3-6 months and you are notified of the decision.
Getting the residence permit
You move to Ireland and start building your project.
FAQ
How soon can I get citizenship?
Can I bring in co-founders?
What if the business does not hit its targets?
How long is the initial permission valid?
Can family members get a residence permit?
Don’t want to figure this out alone?
We handle the whole process end to end: we check your documents, match a program to your situation and give you honest timelines and costs. Leave your details and a migration expert will get back to you. The first consultation is free.