Ireland is a thriving hub for global commerce, technology, and entrepreneurship. With its strategic location in the European Union, low corporate taxes, highly educated workforce, and pro-business environment, it’s an ideal destination for immigrants who want to launch or invest in a business. The Ireland Business Visa provides the legal pathway to make that ambition a reality.
Why Choose Ireland for Business?
| Reason | Details |
| EU Market Access | Gateway to 450M+ consumers in the EU |
| Business-Friendly Taxation | 12.5% corporate tax—one of the lowest in Europe |
| Strong Legal Framework | Stable, transparent, and globally respected legal system |
| English-Speaking Workforce | Highly educated and skilled talent pool |
| Startup Ecosystem | Government-backed supports for entrepreneurs (e.g., Enterprise Ireland) |
| Global Companies | HQs of Apple, Google, Facebook, and more based in Ireland |
What Is an Ireland Business Visa?
The Ireland Business Visa is an immigration permission that allows non-EEA (non-European Economic Area) nationals to enter and stay in Ireland for the purpose of establishing, investing in, or operating a business.
There are two primary business immigration pathways:
- Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP)
- Immigrant Investor Programme (IIP)
Types of Ireland Business Visas
| Visa Type | Purpose | Stay Duration |
| Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) | For high-potential start-ups with scalable business models | Initially 2 years (renewable) |
| Immigrant Investor Programme (IIP) | For investors contributing significantly to the Irish economy | Renewable 5-year permission |
| Short Stay ‘C’ Business Visa | For attending meetings, negotiations, trade events | Up to 90 days |
Eligibility Criteria
1. Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP)
| Criteria | Requirement |
| Business Type | Innovative, scalable, HQ or base in Ireland |
| Minimum Funding | €50,000 (plus more for each team member if co-founders) |
| No Job Creation Requirement | Initially, but growth plan expected |
| Clean Criminal Record | Required |
| Financial Support | Personal funds or verifiable investment |
2. Immigrant Investor Programme (IIP)
| Investment Option | Minimum Amount |
| Enterprise Investment | €1 million for 3 years |
| Investment Fund | €1 million in approved fund |
| Real Estate Investment Trusts | €2 million in Irish REITs |
| Endowment | €500,000 donation to public projects (e.g., arts, sports) |
How to Apply for an Ireland Business Visa
STEP (Start-up Entrepreneur Programme)
- Prepare Business Plan (must meet innovation and scalability standards)
- Gather Required Documents (passport, finances, CV, letter of intent)
- Submit Application to INIS (Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service)
- Wait for Approval Letter (~3-4 months processing time)
- Apply for Visa (if outside Ireland) using the approval letter
- Travel to Ireland and Register with immigration on arrival
IIP (Immigrant Investor Programme)
- Choose Investment Option
- Prepare and Submit Application
- Approval in Principle issued after assessment
- Transfer Funds into Irish enterprise or project
- Permission Granted for residency
Sponsorship for Business Visa in Ireland
While traditional “visa sponsorship” by an employer doesn’t apply to business visas, financial backing or endorsements can serve a similar role.
| Who Can Sponsor or Support | What They Provide |
| Investors or Business Partners | Capital, financial documents, letters of support |
| Enterprise Ireland | Endorsement for STEP if project is high potential |
| Accelerators & Incubators | Office space, mentorship, letters of intent |
| NGOs or Public Institutions | Letters supporting investment or innovation contributions |
Note: Sponsorship, in this context, means support with funding, resources, or validation—not legal employer sponsorship.
Cost of Ireland Business Visa
| Category | Estimated Cost (EUR) |
| STEP Application Fee | Free |
| IIP Application Fee | €1,500 (non-refundable) |
| Visa Fee (Single Entry) | €60 |
| Visa Fee (Multiple Entry) | €100 |
| Immigration Registration in Ireland | €300 (GNIB card) |
| Additional Legal/Consulting Fees | Varies (optional but recommended) |
Benefits of Ireland Business Visa
| Benefit | Details |
| Path to Residency and Citizenship | Eligible for long-term residency and Irish citizenship |
| Family Inclusion | Spouse and dependent children can join and reside |
| Access to EU Market | Seamless business operations within EU |
| Business Growth Support | Grants and mentoring from Enterprise Ireland |
| Education & Healthcare Access | Children can attend Irish schools; access to public services |
| No Language Test Requirement | English proficiency assumed, but no formal test for business visa |
Other Useful Tips
- Create a Solid Business Plan: Include projections, competitor analysis, innovation, and scalability.
- Get Legal Help: Immigration or business lawyers can help structure the application effectively.
- Network Before Arrival: Connect with Irish entrepreneurs, chambers of commerce, and enterprise hubs.
- Use Coworking & Innovation Spaces: Ireland has strong startup infrastructure in Dublin, Cork, and Galway.
- Stay Compliant: Renew residency on time, maintain investment/employment commitments.
Ireland is not just a gateway to Europe—it’s a thriving ecosystem for ambitious immigrants who want to start or invest in a business. Whether through the Start-up Entrepreneur Programme or the Immigrant Investor Programme, the Ireland Business Visa offers strong benefits like residency, market access, and business growth opportunities. With thoughtful planning, strong documentation, and strategic partnerships or sponsorships, your entrepreneurial journey in Ireland can lead to long-term success and settlement.
