Do you have an innovative business idea and want to launch your startup in Ireland? The Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) can help make that happen.
Whether you’re a non-EEA national or looking for a secure path to set up your business in a thriving European market, the STEP programme offers an excellent opportunity — from securing a Stamp 4 visa to turning your idea into a high-potential startup.
At R&A Immigration Consultants, we specialize in guiding entrepreneurs through the STEP process — from checking your eligibility to preparing your application, business plan, and investment documents — ensuring a smooth path to launching your venture in Ireland.
Our STEP service covers:
Expert Guidance
Business Plan & Documentation Support
End-to-End STEP Application Management
Call us on +353 89 970 9212, email info@rnlsolicitors.ie, or fill in the Free Online Enquiry Form. You can also request a call back, and we’ll get in touch at a time that suits you.
STEP is a government initiative by the Department of Justice designed to attract non-EEA entrepreneurs with high-potential start-up ideas to establish their businesses in Ireland and contribute to economic growth.
Non-EEA nationals with an innovative and scalable business proposal who can demonstrate:
Access to a minimum of €50,000 in funding
A viable business plan
The potential to create employment and contribute to the Irish economy
Approved applicants are granted a Stamp 4 residence permission, which allows them to live and work in Ireland for two years initially, with the possibility of a three-year extension.
Applicants must secure a minimum investment of €50,000, which can be sourced from:
Personal savings
Angel investors
Venture capital firms
Other designated or approved funding bodies
The business plan must be comprehensive and well-structured, including:
Business objectives and model
Market research and analysis
Financial projections
Job creation strategy
Timeline and growth potential
Yes. The start-up must:
Create at least one full-time job in the first year, and
A total of ten full-time jobs within the first four years of operation in Ireland
Ireland is known for its highly educated and skilled workforce, supported by world-class universities and a strong emphasis on lifelong learning. This makes it an ideal environment for start-ups that depend on a knowledgeable and adaptable talent pool.
Ireland offers a pro-business environment characterised by a low corporate tax rate, robust legal and financial systems, and extensive government and private sector support for start-ups. These factors collectively foster innovation and growth.
As an English-speaking EU member, Ireland provides strategic access to the European Single Market, one of the largest economic zones globally. This makes it a prime base for companies seeking to expand across Europe.
As an English-speaking EU member, Ireland provides strategic access to the European Single Market, one of the largest economic zones globally. This makes it a prime base for companies seeking to expand across Europe.
Ireland offers a high standard of living, featuring vibrant cultural life, welcoming communities, excellent healthcare and education, and beautiful natural landscapes. It is a desirable location for entrepreneurs seeking both professional and personal fulfilment.