Chinese applicants · Republic of Ireland
Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) for Chinese citizens
Residence programme for founders establishing a High Potential Start-Up in Ireland.
- Processing time
- Varies with evaluation committee review cycle.
- Government fees
- Stamp fees €300 per year; funding requirement €50,000 minimum.
- Typical duration
- Initial 2-year permission; renewable; leads to Stamp 4 after 5 years.
- Sponsor required
- No
- Leads to settlement
- Yes
Bilateral context
- Schengen Area
Consular processing: Applicable consular post in origin country
Tourist entry vs. this route
Chinese nationals require a visa for any entry into Republic of Ireland. The Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) is one of the routes available; tourist entry is a separate application.
Visa overview
The Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) grants residence to non-EEA founders establishing a High Potential Start-Up (HPSU) in Ireland. The business must be introducing a new product or service with potential to create at least 10 jobs in 3–4 years and €1m turnover.
Eligibility
Typical criteria
- ✓High Potential Start-Up credentials: new product or service in an internationally traded sector.
- ✓Funding of at least €50,000 for the business.
- ✓Business plan showing potential to create 10+ jobs and €1m turnover in 3–4 years.
Common blockers
- !Business is primarily retail, catering, or similar non-traded sector.
- !Funding below the €50,000 threshold.
Typical evidence
- ·Detailed business plan.
- ·Evidence of funding.
- ·Proof of qualifications and experience.
Application pathway
Develop HPSU business case
Refine the business concept in consultation with Enterprise Ireland or an experienced advisor.
Apply to STEP
Submit business plan and supporting documents to the Immigration Service Delivery evaluation committee.
Secure visa and travel
Once approved, apply for an entry visa and travel to Ireland.
Register and build
Register with ISD, receive Stamp 1 permission, and execute the business plan with reviews at 2 and 5 years.
Other Republic of Ireland routes covered for Chinese applicants
Comparable routes in other destinations
Frequently asked questions
Are Chinese citizens eligible for the Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP)?+
Eligibility for the Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) is set by Immigration Service Delivery (Ireland) and is not nationality-restricted beyond the general criteria, though Chinese applicants may also have access to the following bilateral or treaty frameworks: Schengen Area. See the criteria below for the published requirements.
Where do Chinese applicants typically file the Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP)?+
Applicable consular post in origin country. Specific intake (online portal, biometrics centre, or in-country lodgement) is determined by Immigration Service Delivery (Ireland) — confirm the current intake channel on the primary source linked above before filing.
Do Chinese applicants need a tourist visa for Republic of Ireland as well?+
Chinese nationals require a visa for any entry into Republic of Ireland. The Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) is one of the routes available; tourist entry is a separate application.
Can STEP founders bring their family?+
Yes. Spouses and dependants can accompany STEP founders, with spouses on Stamp 3 (no work) or eligible to apply for their own permit.