The Importance of Considering Next Steps: A Graduate Student's Guide to Irish Immigration

University degree complete: What’s next?

In today's interconnected world, the pursuit of education often transcends borders. Many students aspire to study abroad, experiencing diverse cultures and broadening their horizons. While the completion of studies is an exciting time for many students, it can also cause uncertainty for non-EEA students in Ireland who currently hold a Stamp 2 Immigration Permission considering their next steps.

By proactively thinking about their next steps, students can ensure they remain compliant. Understanding the terms of their student permission, including limitations on work, duration of stay, and any potential post-study opportunities, empowers them to navigate the immigration landscape confidently.

Next steps for foreign nationals holding a Stamp 2 Permission

Now that you have completed your studies in Ireland, the expiry of your student immigration permission (Stamp 2) may be approaching. It is important to be proactive at this time and consider your next steps as soon as possible to renew your permission, should you wish to remain in the country.

If you have successfully completed your exams and will be awarded a bachelor’s degree (or higher) from a recognized Irish university, and hold a valid Stamp 2 Permission, you may be eligible to apply for a Stamp 1G Permission through the Third Level Graduate Programme. This permission will allow you to enter the labour market and begin working for your desired employer. This permission will be granted for a period of 12 months.

If you have been awarded a master’s degree (level 9 NFQ) or higher from a recognized Irish university, you may be eligible to renew your Stamp 1G Permission for a further 12-month period (24 months in total), providing you with additional time to seek employment – but the authorities may require you to show that you have been seeking appropriate graduate employment during the first 12-month period. 

In practice, this is often no problem, but it is inconsistently applied by immigration offices, which has led to the common belief among graduates and employers that it is a two-year permission. It is important to understand that this is not the case. The purpose of the Third Level Graduate Programme is to give you time to find appropriate graduate employment.

One of the many benefits of this permission is that it counts towards your residency for a future naturalisation application. It is important that you make your employer aware of your requirement for an employment permit well in advance of the expiry of your Stamp 1G Permission.

When can I apply for the Third Level Graduate Programme and obtain my Stamp 1G Permission?

Once you have completed your final year exams and your results have been issued showing that you have successfully passed all modules, you can begin applying for your Stamp 1G Permission. It is not necessary for your official degree to be issued for this application.

What do I need to apply for the Third Level Graduate Programme and obtain my Stamp 1G Permission?

To apply for your Stamp 1G Permission, you will be required to submit the following to renew your IRP card: 

1. Your current valid passport
2. Proof of medical insurance
3. Confirmation from your university of the award granted to you (including your final results, if you do not have the degree certificate)
4. A fee of €300

If you live in county Dublin, you will need to visit the online renewal portal and apply for your Stamp 1G Permission. If you live outside of county Dublin, you will be required to email your local Garda office to apply for your Stamp 1G Permission.

What happens if my Stamp 2 Permission expires in advance of receiving my Stamp 1G?

If it is the case that your Stamp 2 Permission is due to expire, and you have applied for the Third Level Graduate Programme but have not yet received your Stamp 1G IRP card, you are permitted to remain in Ireland based on your Stamp 2 Permission for a period of eight weeks post-expiry.

If it is the case that you are not yet eligible to apply for your Stamp 1G Permission, or you are coming up to eight weeks post-expiry on your Stamp 2 and have not received your new Stamp 1G IRP card, we would urge that you write to Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) to request a temporary extension to your current permission. These requests will be assessed on a case-by-case basis by ISD.

Need to know more?

Being proactive in considering immigration permissions allows students to plan for potential challenges. Understanding the processes involved in renewals, extensions or changes of status empowers students to handle such situations with confidence and avoid unnecessary disruptions to their education and residency.

If you have any questions about your eligibility for Stamp 1G Permission, please contact Senior Immigration Manager Fatima Aydin at [email protected] and Immigration Consultant Hana Jendoubi at [email protected].

This blog was published on 26 July 2023, and due to the circumstances, there are frequent changes. To keep up to date with all the latest updates on global immigration, please visit our dedicated COVID-19 site, subscribe to our alerts and follow us on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram