Golden Visa Partners

Residence by Investment

İrlanda

The Ireland Immigrant Investor Programme (IIP) was closed to new applications on February 15, 2023. For those seeking residence through investment, the Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) and the approved charitable donation route offer limited alternatives; Ireland retains its appeal as an English-speaking EU country.

Last updated: 2026-07-07

At a glance

IIP status
Closed (February 15, 2023)
Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP)
Innovative business, ~EUR 50,000 funding
Donation route
Approved projects (limited, oversubscribed)
Residence
At least one visit per year
Language
English-speaking EU country

Who is it for?

  • Those seeking alternative routes to live in Ireland now that the IIP has closed.
  • Entrepreneurs wishing to establish an innovative and scalable business (STEP).
  • Those prioritizing residence in an English-speaking EU country.
  • Those seeking residence with a low physical presence requirement (one visit per year).

Alternatives After the IIP

Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP): Offers a residence route for entrepreneurs with an innovative, high-potential business idea.

Charitable donation route: Assessed through qualifying capital donations to approved healthcare and education projects; however, eligible projects are limited and oversubscribed.

Benefits

  • Residence in an English-speaking EU country.
  • Possibility of establishing an innovative business through STEP.
  • Low physical presence requirement (one visit per year).
  • Family members can be included.

Requirements

  • An innovative and scalable business plan and funding for STEP.
  • An approved project for the donation route.
  • Clean criminal record and legal source of funds.

Costs

IIP (investor program)
No longer available (closed in 2023)
Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP)
~EUR 50,000 funding
Donation route
Project-based

Process

  1. Eligibility assessment

    Determining eligibility for STEP or the donation route.

  2. Business plan / project

    Preparing the approved business plan or donation project.

  3. Application

    Submitting a formal application to the relevant program.

  4. Residence

    Obtaining the residence permit after approval.

FAQ

Is the Ireland golden visa (IIP) still open?
No. The IIP was closed to new applications on February 15, 2023.
Is residence through investment still possible in Ireland?
The direct investor program has closed; however, the Start-up Entrepreneur Programme (STEP) or the approved donation route may be considered.
Do I have to live in Ireland?
Continuous residence is not required; however, at least one visit to Ireland per year is required to maintain the permit.
How much funding is required for STEP?
The Start-up Entrepreneur Programme generally requires approximately EUR 50,000 in funding and an approved business plan for an innovative and scalable business.
What happens to existing IIP holders?
IIP permits approved before the program closed are preserved and can be renewed as long as conditions are met.
Is there a path to citizenship in Ireland?
Irish citizenship can generally be applied for after 5 years of reckonable residence.

Disclaimer: Golden Visa Partners is an investment and immigration advisory firm; it does not provide legal or attorney services. The investment amounts, timelines and program conditions on this page are for general guidance only and, because regulations change quickly, may be out of date. Before making any decision, we recommend consulting current official sources and obtaining independent legal and financial advice.

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