The post study work visa in Ireland allows international students to stay back after graduation to find employment and gain global work experience. It plays a crucial role in transforming an Irish degree into a long-term career opportunity.
Ireland remains a top study destination for Indian students because of its globally ranked universities, strong job market, and student-friendly immigration policies. The Irish post-study work visa gives graduates time to search for skilled jobs and transition into long-term work permits. This guide explains everything students need to know in 2026—clearly, accurately, and practically.
What Is the Post Study Work Visa in Ireland?
The post study work visa in Ireland is officially known as the Third Level Graduate Programme (Stamp 1G). It allows eligible non-EU/EEA students to remain in Ireland after completing their studies to search for a job or start working.
This visa acts as a bridge between student life and long-term employment permits in Ireland.
What Does Stamp 1G Mean?
Stamp 1G is a temporary residence permission that allows graduates to:
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Work full-time (up to 40 hours per week)
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Search for skilled employment
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Transition to a Critical Skills Employment Permit or General Employment Permit
Does Ireland Offer a Post-Study Visa?
Yes, Ireland offers a post-study work visa for international students, including Indian students. Unlike many countries, Ireland provides a clearly defined and government-backed graduate stay-back option.
The Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) manages this programme under the Department of Justice.
Ireland actively encourages skilled graduates to stay and contribute to its economy, especially in high-demand sectors like technology, healthcare, finance, engineering, and life sciences.
Why Should You Apply for the Ireland Post Study Work Visa After Masters?
If you complete a Level 9 (Masters) or Level 10 (PhD) qualification, you gain a significant advantage. The Ireland post study work visa after masters allows you to stay and work for a longer duration compared to undergraduate students.
Why is this important? Ireland hosts the European headquarters of companies like Google, Meta, and Pfizer. Holding a Master’s degree from an Irish university makes you a prime candidate for high-paying roles in these global giants.
Ireland Post Study Work Visa Duration (By Qualification)
|
Qualification Level |
Duration |
|---|---|
|
Level 8 (Bachelor’s) |
12 months |
|
Level 9 (Master’s) |
24 months |
|
Level 10 (PhD) |
24 months |
Span International recommends Master’s programs for students aiming for long-term settlement.
Post Study Work Visa for Indian Students in Ireland
The post study visa in Ireland for Indian students offers strong advantages:
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No sponsorship required during Stamp 1G
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Full-time work rights
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High demand for skilled professionals
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Smooth transition to employment permits
Indian graduates work in sectors such as:
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Information Technology
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Data Analytics
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Pharmaceuticals
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Finance & Accounting
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Healthcare
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Engineering
Ireland’s close ties with global companies benefit Indian professionals.
Who Can Apply for a Post Study Work Visa in Ireland?
You can apply if you:
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Hold a valid Irish student visa (Stamp 2)
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Complete an eligible full-time course
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Graduate from a recognized Irish institution
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Apply before your student visa expires
Span International ensures every student meets these conditions before graduation.
Post Study Visa in Ireland Requirements (2026)
Key Requirements
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Valid passport
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Final degree certificate or transcript
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Proof of graduation
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Active immigration registration
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Address in Ireland
Important Conditions
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Course must be on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP)
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Student must maintain legal status throughout studies
How to Apply for a Post Study Work Visa in Ireland
Step-by-Step Process
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Complete your degree in Ireland
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Gather academic documents
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Apply for Stamp 1G online
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Attend immigration registration
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Receive post-study work permission
Span International guides students before, during, and after graduation to avoid errors.
Ireland Post Study Work Visa Cost
Updated Costs (2026)
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Stamp 1G Registration Fee: €300
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Renewal (if applicable): €300
There is no separate visa application fee, which makes Ireland cost-effective compared to other countries.
Post Study Visa in Ireland from India – What to Know
Indian students apply within Ireland, not from India.
However, planning starts before leaving India.
Span International supports:
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Course selection with strong post-study outcomes
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Career-oriented universities
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Job-focused programs
This preparation increases visa success and employment chances.
What Happens After the Post Study Work Visa?
After Stamp 1G, students can move to:
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Critical Skills Employment Permit
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General Employment Permit
Benefits of Critical Skills Permit
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Fast-track permanent residency
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Family reunification
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Long-term career stability
Ireland offers one of the clearest PR pathways in Europe.
Why Choose Ireland for Post-Study Work?
Key Advantages
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English-speaking EU country
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Strong economy
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Home to global companies
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Simple visa process
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High employability for Indian graduates
Ireland ranks high for student satisfaction and career outcomes.
Why Choose Span International for Ireland Education?
Span International provides:
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Personalized counselling
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University selection based on job demand
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Visa and documentation support
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Pre-departure and post-arrival guidance
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Career-focused study planning
Thousands of students trust Span International for safe, successful study abroad journeys.
Final Thoughts
The post study work visa in Ireland opens doors to global careers, long-term stability, and international exposure. With a clear system, strong job market, and student-friendly policies, Ireland remains a top choice for Indian students in 2026.
📌 Talk to Span International today to plan your Ireland education journey with confidence and clarity.
