The Start-up Entrepreneur Programme allows non EEA nationals with a proposal for a high potential start-up in the innovation economy and funding of €75,000 to be given residency in this State for the purposes of developing their business.

A High Potential Start-Up (HPSU) is defined by the Minister for Justice as a start-up venture that is:

• Introducing a new or innovative product or service to international markets.
• Capable of creating 10 jobs in Ireland and realising €1 million in sales within three to four years of starting up.
• Led by an experienced management team.
• Headquartered and controlled in Ireland.
• Less than six years old.

No initial job creation targets requirements are included in the programme.

A non-EEA national may apply for residency status as an individual, or he/she may also apply for residency status for themselves and their spouse/ partner and children under the age of 18.  Where family members are granted residency under the Start-up Entrepreneur Programme, as long as the applicant fulfils the criteria for residence status under the Programme, that status will automatically be maintained on their spouse/partner and minor children living in Ireland.

Successful applicants and their family members will initially be granted residence in Ireland for two years,  which will be renewable for a further three years.  After 5 years residence, participants under the programme will be eligible for long term residence in the State.

Successful applicants will be granted a multiple entry visa for Ireland for the same duration as their residence permission in order that he or she can  reside in Ireland and travel freely to Ireland for the duration of the permission.