Post Study Visa in Ireland
You’ve just completed your degree in Ireland and you’re asking: how can you stay on and build your career? The post study visa in Ireland opens that door. Interestingly enough, over 20,000 graduates apply through Ireland’s Third Level Graduate Programme each year (Irish Immigration Service). Exciting, right?
In this guide, you’ll learn what a post study visa in Ireland really is, who’s eligible, how to apply, what it costs, and crucial tips to smooth your application. Ready to dive in?
Let’s get started.
Table of Contents
What Is a Post Study Visa?
Imagine having a safety net after graduation. That’s exactly what Stamp 1G provides. It’s officially called the Third Level Graduate Programme, letting international students work full-time without needing a job offer at application time.
Here’s why it matters: you gain Irish workplace experience, expand your network, and boost your resume. Plus, who doesn’t love getting paid while learning on the job?
“Ireland’s Third Level Graduate Programme offers a flexible pathway for international graduates to gain valuable work experience without needing a job offer at application time.” – Abhinav Jain, Founder & Director, Gateway International
Example: Priya, an engineering graduate from UCD, secured a six-month contract with a Dublin-based startup just three weeks after applying for her Stamp 1G.
Actionable takeaway: Register for Stamp 1G immediately after exams to kickstart your job hunt.
Why a Post Study Visa Matters
Hook: Graduating is one thing. Staying on to work? That’s a game-changer.
Context: Ireland’s economy is booming, especially in tech, pharma, and finance. A post study visa lets you tap into that growth.
Detailed Explanation: You’ll enjoy full work rights, unlike the 20-hour-per-week cap under Stamp 2. Earning real wages means you can pay off student loans faster and gain international work experience — highly valued back home.
Real Example: Ahmed, a business analytics graduate, used his Stamp 1G to land a data science role at a Fortune 500 company in Cork.
Expert insight: Applicants must apply within six months of completing their studies and maintain valid medical insurance and proof of funds to ensure smooth processing (Gateway International).
Actionable takeaway: Line up at least three job interviews before your course ends — the sooner you start, the better.
Eligibility Criteria for a Post Study Visa in Ireland
Hook: Not everyone qualifies—so let’s check your status.
Context: The Immigration Authority has clear rules. Missing one requirement can lead to a rejection.
Detailed Explanation:
- Valid Stamp 2 student permission at the time of application
- Completion of an eligible higher education degree (level 8, 9 or 10) from a recognized Irish institution
- Application within six months of exam results or thesis submission
- Proof of funds: €10,000 for courses over eight months starting June 30, 2025
- Valid medical or health insurance
Example: Sara held Stamp 2 when she applied and displayed her university transcript and bank statements showing €12,000.
Actionable takeaway: Double-check expiry dates on your Stamp 2 and insurance before you hit submit.
How to Apply for a Post Study Visa in Ireland
Hook: The clock is ticking—use these steps.
Context: A streamlined application avoids delays. Digital portals make it faster than ever.
- Prepare Documents (see next section)
- Pay the €300 application fee online
- Fill out the post-study work visa application form on Irish Immigration
- Upload scanned copies (transcript, passport, insurance, funds proof)
- Submit and note your application ID
- Attend any requested interview or biometrics appointment
Example: Diego applied on Day 1, tracked his status online, and received Stamp 1G approval in four weeks.
Actionable takeaway: Save screenshots of submissions and fee receipts—proof is power.
Required Documents and Costs
Hook: Papers, papers, papers—let’s get organized.
Context: Missing docs are the #1 reason for rejections.
Detailed Explanation:
- Passport biodata page (valid for at least six months)
- Confirmation of successful course completion
- Proof of funds (€10,000 bank statement or sponsor letter)
- Valid medical or travel insurance
- English proficiency test results (IELTS 6.5 or equivalent) if required by university
- Stamped visa permission (Stamp 2)
Cost breakdown:
- Application fee: €300
- Medical insurance: €200–€400 per year
- English test (if needed): €150–€250
Expert quote: “Applicants now face more rigorous proof of funds and insurance checks — so prepare in advance,” says Immigration Authority Guidance.
Actionable takeaway: Bundle your costs into one spreadsheet to avoid surprise expenses.
Recent Changes and Future Trends
Hook: Policy tweaked in June 2025—here’s what’s new.
Context: Non-visa nationals now need proof of €10,000 funds for long courses (over 8 months).
Detailed Explanation: Digital submissions have accelerated processing times to 4–6 weeks. Plus, graduates with level 9 degrees must show active job search or employment within 12 months for extensions.
Future outlook: Expect further digital integration and possible eligibility expansions for entrepreneurial graduates.
Actionable takeaway: Check the online portal regularly for policy updates and set calendar reminders.
Quick Tips and Advanced Advice
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long can I stay on Stamp 1G?
- Level 8 graduates get up to 12 months; level 9 and 10 may qualify for up to 24 months.
- Can I bring my family?
- Yes, dependents can apply for Stamp 3 permission alongside your application.
- What if I don’t find a job?
- You must show active job seeking. If unsuccessful, Stamp 1G ends and you must switch to another permission.
- Is workstudies allowed?
- No, Stamp 1G permits full-time employment only.
- Can I switch to a different visa?
- Absolutely. Many move to Critical Skills Employment Permits after Stamp 1G.
Conclusion
By now, you have a clear roadmap for securing your post study visa in Ireland: define the visa, confirm eligibility, gather documents, follow the digital application steps, and anticipate costs. The main benefit? Gaining full-time work rights to jump-start your career in a thriving economy.
Next steps:
- Verify your Stamp 2 validity and insurance.
- Compile your documents, focusing on proof of funds.
- Submit your application within six months of graduation.
The future is bright—make the most of your time in Ireland with your post study visa in Ireland. Good luck!
