To qualify for immigration permission under STEP, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• A high-potential start-up introducing an innovative product or service to international markets.
• A business that can create at least 10 jobs and generate €1,000,000 in turnover within 3–4 years.
• The start-up must be led by an experienced management team.
• The business must be headquartered and controlled in Ireland.
• The business must be less than six years old.
• Retail, hospitality, catering, and general services businesses are not eligible—STEP focuses on industries such as technology, science, engineering, mathematics, and communications.

Financial Requirements

Applicants must have access to at least €50,000 to start their business. The funding can come from:

✔️ Personal financial resources
✔️ Business loans
✔️ Venture capital or angel investment
✔️ Grants from Irish state agencies

Applicants must provide evidence of funds and their ability to transfer them to Ireland.

Application Process

1. Prepare a business plan demonstrating innovation, job creation, and economic viability.
2. Submit the application via email to IIPandSTEPapplications@justice.ie with the required documents.
   • Application form: STEP Application Form
3. Pay a non-refundable €350 processing fee to the Department of Justice.
4. Assessment by an Evaluation Committee and decision by the Minister for Justice.
5. If approved, applicants receive Stamp 4 residence permission.

Post-Approval Requirements

• Funds must be transferred to an Irish bank account before final approval.
• Private medical insurance must be arranged after arrival.
• Visa-required nationals must apply for an entry visa before traveling to Ireland.

Residency & Renewal

Successful applicants receive an initial two-year residence permit. Extensions may be granted as follows:

• Three-year extension if business progress and compliance conditions are met.
• After five years, applicants may apply for long-term residence and Irish citizenship.

Renewal Criteria After Two Years

To extend their residence, applicants must prove that they have:

✔️ Established and actively operated the business as per the original business plan.
✔️ Worked full-time on the business.
✔️ Not become a financial burden on the Irish State.
✔️ Maintained a clean legal record and private health insurance.

An Evaluation Committee will review business progress before granting renewal. If conditions are not met, residency status may be revoked.

Family Inclusion & Citizenship Eligibility

Immediate family members—spouse, civil partner, and dependent children (under 18, or under 24 if in full-time education)—can be included in the application and granted Stamp 4 residency.

After five years, applicants may apply for Irish citizenship by naturalisation. However, strict residency rules apply, so applicants should familiarise themselves with Irish citizenship requirements from the outset.