Ireland's Stamp 1G: The Post-Study Work Permission Every International Graduate Needs to Know

Graduating from an Irish university is a proud milestone — but for non-EEA students, it also raises an urgent question: can I legally stay and work in Ireland after my course ends?

The answer is yes, thanks to Ireland's Stamp 1G, officially known as the Third Level Graduate Scheme. This immigration permission allows non-EEA graduates to live and work freely in Ireland for up to 24 months after graduation — no employment permit required.

Who qualifies?

You are eligible if you are a non-EEA national who completed a qualification at NFQ Level 8 (honours bachelor), Level 9 (master's), or Level 10 (PhD) at a recognised Irish higher education institution, while holding a valid Stamp 2 student permission. You must apply within 12 months of your graduation date. EU/EEA citizens don't need this — they already have free movement rights.

One critical note: NFQ Level 7 ordinary bachelor degrees do not qualify.

What can you do on a Stamp 1G?

The Stamp 1G is open market. You can work for any employer in any sector, change jobs freely, and negotiate without immigration restrictions. The only limitation is that self-employment is not permitted.

How long does it last?

It is issued for 12 months initially and can be renewed once for another 12 months — giving a maximum of 24 months. After that, most graduates transition to a Critical Skills Employment Permit or General Employment Permit.

How to apply?

Register online at inisonline.jahs.ie, book an in-person appointment at your local immigration office (Burgh Quay in Dublin), bring your documents, and pay the €300 fee.

The Stamp 1G is Ireland's invitation to international graduates to stay, contribute, and build. Don't let it go to waste.

👉 Read the complete Stamp 1G guide on Student Circus