The Start-up Entrepreneur Programme is suitable for people with entrepreneurial ability and good financial backing who wish to start a business in the innovation area.

The Start-up Entrepreneur Programme will be suitable for you if have a good innovative business idea and a sound business plan. You also need to show that you have a good financial background (over €75,000 per applicant). As this programme is specifically developed for start-up businesses, that would need more time to expand and develop, there is no initial job creation target. The Entrepreneur programme aims to support high potential start-up businesses in areas of high–potential growth in the future.

There are 2 stages to an application:

1. Approval by the Evaluation Committee

Under the Entrepreneur category, your project will be assessed by an independent Evaluation Committee. Irish State agencies will play a key role in evaluating the suitability of proposed business proposals for the programme. A high potential start up should introduce a new or innovative product or service to international markets. It should be capable of creating 10 jobs in Ireland and realising €1 million in sales within three to four years of starting up. Other requirement includes that it be less than 6 years old and headquartered in Ireland.

2. Issue of Residency Permission.

Once approved, you will be granted initial residence permission for 2 years to develop and expand your business. After this initial period your case will be reviewed again and you can be granted an extension of further 3 years, depending on the progress of your business. After 5 years you can apply for permanent residency, if you would like to remain in Ireland. If you meet the eligibility requirements, you may even apply for Irish Naturalisation, after this 5 year period. The Entrepreneur programme does not require you to establish residency in Ireland, this is an option that will be available to you and your family and you can avail of it if you wish. In case you are not planning to reside in Ireland, you will need to enter the State at least once every 12 months, so that your Entrepreneur permit remains valid.

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