The possibility of working in your study abroad destination after graduation may well be something you consider when you choose it. By the time you have lived there for a while, the chance to immerse yourself further into its culture could be highly desirable – and in Ireland, it can be yours.
In this article, we explore post-study work visa options in Ireland, with a focus on the application process for the third level graduate programme.
The third level graduate programme
The third level graduate programme is a long-standing initiative of the Irish government. It allows eligible graduates to look for and get work in Ireland without needing an employment permit. Approved applicants receive Stamp 1G immigration permission.
Who can apply?
You can make use of the third level graduate programme if you have recently completed your studies in Ireland and received an Irish qualification at bachelor's degree level or above. Officially, this is level 8 on the country's NFQ (National Framework of Qualifications).
Additionally, you must have:
- an up-to-date Irish Residence Permit (also known as an IRP card) and Stamp 2 student immigration permission
- not exceeded the seven-year limit of stay for non-EEA students
- received your qualification from an approved Irish education provider or awarding body
- not accessed the programme more than once before.
International students from the EU, EEA and Switzerland do not need a visa. You may continue to live and work in Ireland after graduation if you are either employed or looking for work within three months of completing your studies.
How long can I stay?
The third level graduate programme allows you to stay in Ireland for 12 months. If your qualification is at NFQ level 9 or above (for example, a master’s degree), you may be able to renew and stay for a further 12 months. Additionally, you can re-enter the programme if you subsequently complete a qualification at a higher level than your first.
Wondering where you could get a degree in the country? Discover the top universities in Ireland.
What rules are there?
The third level graduate programme allows you to:
- look for work
- work full-time or part-time.
It does not allow you to:
- start a business or be self-employed
- bring your family to Ireland (unless your qualification was a PhD).
You must buy and maintain adequate health insurance for the length of your time in Ireland.
Be aware that every visa is unique, and given on a case-by-case basis. Yours may have other conditions, depending on your circumstances.
When to apply
You must apply to the third level graduate programme within six months of completing your studies.
What are the costs?
Registration for the Irish third level graduate programme costs EUR 300. If your application is unsuccessful, the full amount will be returned to you.
In addition, you will need to be able to support yourself financially while you are in Ireland. Although proof of this ability is not required, it is always important to consider costs such as rent, bills and travel.
You may find our article about the cost of living in Ireland helpful when budgeting.
What documents do I need?
When you apply to the Irish third level graduate programme, you will need:
- your passport
- your Irish Residence Permit (IRP card)
- evidence of the qualification you have obtained, given as either:
- a copy of the award granted to you at the end of your studies; or
- a letter of confirmation from your education provider detailing the course you have studied and that you have completed it
- evidence of your medical insurance.
If you are applying to extend your time on the third level graduate programme as the holder of a level 9 qualification, you must also show that you have sought graduate-level work in the last 12 months. This can be done with proof of employment or attendance at job interviews – anything that shows your commitment to working in Ireland.
You can start working part-time while you study. Find out more with our guide to international student work rights in Ireland.
Completing your application
Applying to the third level graduate programme involves renewing your immigration registration. You must do this online via the Irish Immigration Service portal. Make sure to have all your documents and payment details ready – you must pay your registration fee at this point.
The following video explains more about the process. Although it refers to Dublin, it applies nationwide.
After you apply
You can expect to receive a decision on your application to the third level graduate programme within four weeks of making it, although the exact time can vary.
If your application is successful, you will be given a new IRP card. This should arrive by post within 10-15 working days.
If you are unsuccessful, you will be sent an explanation of why. Your registration fee will also be refunded.
Other Irish work permits
There are other Irish employment permits that may be a better fit for you, or which you may wish to use in future. The following table explains two of the options.
|
Permit type |
Eligible applicants |
|
Highly skilled people with a job offer in a position listed on the Critical Skills Occupations List. |
|
|
People with an offer of work that meets a minimum pay requirement and is not in an ineligible occupation. |
Find out more about the range of employment permits available in Ireland.
Final considerations
Check the conditions and dates of your visa when you receive it. These will tell you what you can and cannot do when you are in Ireland, and for how long. If you think there has been a mistake, you must inform the Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration as soon as possible for it to be corrected.
Now you know about your options for post-study work visas in Ireland, see more of what the country can offer your career. First, explore the top employers in Ireland. Then, discover the top graduate jobs in Ireland.
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