Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP)

Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) is a residence route in Ireland (Entrepreneur). €50,000 funding (savings, loans, VC, angel or state grant) for a High Potential Start-Up: innovative product, ≥10 jobs and €1m sales within 3–4 yrs, HQ in Ireland, <5 yrs old. Committee approval; €350 application fee; 2 yrs then 3-yr renewal.

Planning reference · Data snapshot 2026-10

Figures and requirements are indicative database snapshots, not newly verified eligibility decisions or personalised tax calculations. A residence permit does not automatically determine tax residence. Confirm conditions, deadlines and amounts in their original currency with the relevant authorities.

Tax residence in Ireland

Elect residence in arrival year (s.819(3)) if you will be resident next year; else 183 days or 280 over 2 yrs (≥30 each)

Non-domiciled: remittance basis for foreign income/gains; split-year relief only for employment income

Residence certificate: Revenue certificate of residence once resident

Your previous country applies its own residence tests separately. If both countries treat you as resident, the applicable tax treaty may resolve treaty residence.

Relocation planning guides

Open Ireland on the interactive map →open in database → →Official page ↗

Entrepreneur and startup residence routes →

Requirements at a glance

The minimum qualifying investment is about CHF 47'000. Spouse and children can usually be included. Permanent residence: after 5 years. Citizenship can be possible after about 5 years.

How holders are taxed

Irish tax resident; non-domiciled can use remittance basis on foreign investment income

Next steps

Check the official page for the current rules and fees, compare this route with the other programmes on the interactive map, and talk to a licensed immigration lawyer or authorised agent before applying.

Category	Entrepreneur
Investment	CHF 47'000
Fees (family)	CHF 1'180
Income / yr	—
Assets	—
Min. stay	—
PR	5
Citizenship	5
Work	ownBusiness
Eligible	non-EEA founders
Tax	Irish tax resident; non-domiciled can use remittance basis on foreign investment income
As of	2026-10

Official page

open in database →

General information only — not tax, legal, immigration, investment or financial advice, and no client relationship. Figures are simplified, indicative and may be out of date. Always verify with the official authority and a licensed professional in the country concerned before acting. Partner links, if any, are marked and may earn us a fee.