Ireland Post-Study Work Visa 2026

Ireland's reputation for world-class education is matched by its thriving economy, making it a top destination for international students seeking a global career. Home to European headquarters for giants in tech, pharmaceuticals, and finance, the country offers incredible opportunities for graduates.

The primary pathway for non-EU/EEA students to work after graduation is the Third Level Graduate Programme (TLGP), also known as the Stamp 1G visa. This is not a separate visa but an extension of your student permission, specifically designed to allow you to seek employment and gain valuable work experience. This article will walk you through the entire process, from application to transitioning to a long-term work permit.

Ireland's Post-Study Work Pathways Explained

For graduates, the Stamp 1G visa is the crucial first step. It acts as a bridge to a long-term employment permit. It's essential to understand how these permits differ as you plan your career in Ireland.

For more information, reach out to AECC to get the latest information on the Stamp 1G visa.

How to Get the Third Level Graduate Scheme (Stamp 1G) Visa

This is the first and most important application for any graduate. You are applying to change your permission from a Stamp 2 (student) to a Stamp 1G (graduate).

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Third Level Graduate Programme, you must:

• Hold a valid Stamp 2 (student) immigration permission.
• Have successfully completed a full-time, Irish-accredited course at NFQ Level 8 (e.g., Honours Bachelor's Degree) or Level 9 or above (e.g., Master's Degree, PhD).
• Have received written confirmation of your final results from your institution (a final transcript or official letter).
• Apply within six months of receiving your final results.
• Not have exceeded the overall time limits for non-EEA students (seven years for Level 8, eight years for Level 9+).
• Apply from within Ireland.

Application Process and Required Documents

The application process depends on where you live in Ireland

1. For Graduates in Dublin: You must apply online via the Irish Immigration Service (ISD) online renewal portal.
2. For Graduates Outside Dublin: You must book an appointment to attend your local Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) registration office in person.

Required Documents:

You will need to provide the following:

• Valid Passport: Your current, original passport.
• Current IRP Card: Your valid Irish Residence Permit (Stamp 2 card).
• Proof of Qualification: An original letter from your college or university confirming you have completed your course and your final results.
• Valid Medical Insurance: Proof of private medical insurance, which must be valid for your entire 12-month period.
• Application Fee: The fee for the new IRP card is €300, payable by credit/debit card.

Timeline for Application

You can only apply after you have received your official final results. You must apply within six months of receiving these results and before your current Stamp 2 permission expires. Processing times for online renewals (Dublin) can take several weeks, so apply as soon as you have your documents

Stamp 1G Visa Duration and Conditions

This is the most critical part of the visa to understand. The duration of your Stamp 1G permission depends on the NFQ level of your qualification.

• Level 8 Qualification (e.g., Honours Bachelor's Degree): Graduates are granted a non-renewable permission of 12 months.
• Level 9 or Above Qualification (e.g., Master's Degree or PhD): Graduates are eligible for a total permission of 24 months, which is granted in two 12-month blocks:
  • Initial 12 Months: You will first be granted a Stamp 1G permission for 12 months.
  • Renewal for 12 Months: Towards the end of this first year, you can apply to renew your Stamp 1G for a further 12 months. This renewal is subject to you demonstrating to the immigration authorities that you have taken appropriate steps to secure graduate-level employment (e.g., providing evidence of job interviews or registration with graduate recruitment agencies). [1, 3]

During your time on a Stamp 1G, you can work full-time (up to 40 hours per week). You cannot be self-employed or operate a business.

Transitioning from Stamp 1G to an Employment Permit

The goal of Stamp 1G is to find a job that makes you eligible for a full employment permit. Your two main options are the Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP) and the General Employment Permit (GEP).

Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP)

This is the most desirable pathway for graduates.

• Eligibility: Your job must be on the Critical Skills Occupations List. This list includes many roles in IT, engineering, finance, and healthcare
• Salary: The job must pay a minimum of €32,000 per year (for most degree holders in relevant occupations).
• Application: Once you have a valid job offer, you or your employer can apply. The employer does not need to conduct a Labour Market Needs Test, making you a much more attractive candidate.

General Employment Permit (GEP)

This permit covers a wider range of occupations that are not on the Critical Skills list.

• Eligibility: You must have a valid job offer from an Irish-based employer.
• Salary: The job must pay a minimum of €30,000 per year (in most cases).
• Application: Your employer must first conduct a Labour Market Needs Test. This means they must prove they advertised the job and could not find a suitable candidate from within the EU/EEA.

Best Practices for Using Your Stamp 1G Visa

Your 12 or 24 months on a Stamp 1G will pass quickly. It is vital to use this time effectively.

• Start Your Job Search Early: Do not wait. Begin networking and applying for graduate-level roles as soon as you have your Stamp 1G permission.
• Target the Critical Skills List: From day one, review the Critical Skills Occupations List. Target companies and roles that fall under this list, as it provides the most direct path to long-term residency (Stamp 4).
• Keep Your Documents in Order: If you are on a Level 9+ visa, keep a log of all your job applications, interview emails, and any registrations with recruitment agencies. You will need this evidence to apply for your 12-month renewal.
• Stay Compliant: Do not let your IRP card or medical insurance lapse. Always inform the immigration authorities of any change of address, as this is a condition of your 

Your Pathway from Graduate to Professional

Your post-study work life in Ireland begins with the Third Level Graduate Programme (Stamp 1G). This visa gives you the necessary time to find a graduate-level role. The main goal, however, is to use this period to secure a long-term Critical Skills or General Employment Permit. Understanding how to make this transition is the key to successfully building your career in Ireland.

From selecting your university to navigating visa rules, the process has many steps. Our expert counsellors at AECC are here to support you all the way. We assist with university applications and your Stamp 2 student visa and provide clear, practical advice on your Stamp 1G post-study work options. Book your FREE consultation today to ensure your plan to study and work in Ireland is clear and achievable.