Start-Up Entrepreneur Program (STEP)

Turning Ambition into Opportunity.
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Your Path to Entrepreneurial Success Starts Here

Launched by the Irish Government in 2012, the Start-Up Entrepreneur Program (STEP) invites non-EEA entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas to establish and grow their ventures in Ireland. With a focus on high-potential start-ups that can create jobs and generate exports, STEP is open to those with a compelling business plan, proof of sufficient financial backing, and a record of good character. nextSTEP supports you through every step, helping you bring your entrepreneurial vision to life in Ireland.

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Why Start-Up in Ireland

See why Ireland is a top destination for entrepreneurs worldwide

Low Corporation Tax (12.5%)

Access to European Market

Pro Business Environment

Skilled Workforce

English Speaking Hub

Application Process

Starting your venture in Ireland just got easier!

Step 1: Prepare a Detailed Business Plan

Step 2: Submit Application to INIS

Step 3: Review and Decision

Step 4: Establish your Business in Ireland

Step 5: Renewal and Long-Term Residency

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How can applying for STEP benefit You?

Key Benefits

  • Residency for Family: The program allows the entrepreneur to bring immediate family members (spouse/partner and children under 18) to Ireland.
  • No Requirement for a Job Offer: Unlike other visa programs, this one focuses on the business potential rather than the availability of a job offer.
  • Pathway to Citizenship: After five years of continuous residency, entrepreneurs can apply for Irish citizenship, subject to meeting the requirements.
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Important Considerations

  • Evaluation of Innovation: The success of the application heavily relies on the innovative nature of the business. It’s crucial to demonstrate how the start-up is different from existing businesses.
  • Economic Impact: The potential to create jobs and generate exports will be closely scrutinized.
  • Compliance: Entrepreneurs must comply with Irish laws, including tax obligations and business regulations.

Testmionials

Hear from our happy clients!

Executive Chef Employment Permit for a 4* Hotel

As a fast-growing hotel, we needed to fill a key position in our kitchen, but finding a qualified chef locally proved difficult. nextSTEP’s work permit consultancy allowed us to bring in a talented chef from overseas without any of the usual stress. Their professionalism and expertise were evident from the start, and they handled all the paperwork quickly and efficiently. Now, thanks to nextSTEP, we have the chef we need and can focus on delivering quality service to our guests.

Tina

Critical Skill Employment for an IT Company

Our tech company was in urgent need of skilled developers, but sourcing talent locally was a challenge. nextSTEP stepped in and helped us secure work permits for highly qualified IT professionals from abroad. The process was seamless, and their team handled everything from documentation to compliance, allowing us to focus on scaling our business. We were impressed by their industry knowledge and quick turnaround times.

Jerry

Business Sales Executive for an ethnic food distributer

Hiring specialized sales staff with experience in ethnic food distribution was crucial to our business expansion. nextSTEP took the burden off our shoulders by managing the entire work permit application process for a key sales executive. Their team was proactive, responsive, and ensured everything was handled correctly. Thanks to them, we’ve added an invaluable member to our sales team, and our operations are growing smoothly.

Khan

Contact Us

We'd love to hear from you!

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