Ireland Stamp 2 Student Visa & 2-Year Stamp 1G Third Level Graduate Scheme

Studying in Ireland on Stamp 2

Non-EEA students enrolled on an eligible full-time course listed on the official Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP) receive Stamp 2 immigration status. Key parameters include:

• Work Entitlements: 20 hours per week during term time, and 40 hours per week during June, July, August, September, and mid-December to mid-January.
• Proof of Funds: Proof of access to at least €10,000 for courses of 1 academic year or more, lodged with the Department of Justice / Immigration Service Delivery (ISD).
• Private Medical Insurance: Mandatory private policy covering at least €25,000 in emergency medical treatment.

Third Level Graduate Scheme (Stamp 1G)

Graduates holding a Master’s degree (Level 9 NFQ) or Doctoral degree (Level 10 NFQ) from a recognized Irish university are eligible for a 24-month Stamp 1G stay-back option. Bachelor (Honours) graduates (Level 8) receive a 12-month Stamp 1G.

Path to Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP)

During the Stamp 1G period, graduates can accept full-time employment without needing a sponsor initial labor market needs test. Securing a job offering €38,000+ on the Critical Skills Occupations List allows conversion to a CSEP, providing a direct 2-year pathway to Stamp 4 permanent residence.