Staying in Ireland after your studies

How do I know if the Third Level Graduate Scheme is available to me?

The Third Level Graduate Scheme is available to all Non-EU/EEA/Swiss/UK students who complete an Undergraduate, a Master's, or a Doctorate programme at Trinity College Dublin. You must not have already exceeded the seven-year limit on your permission as a non-EEA national student in the State. 

How long does the Scheme allow me to stay in Ireland?

Undergraduate (Level 8) course graduates can stay for up to 12 months 

Postgraduate (Masters/PhD, Level 9/10) course graduates can stay for up to 24 months (You will be granted permission for 12 months initially. See below for how to extend your Stamp 1G a further 12 months). 

When can I apply for the Third Level Graduate Scheme?

Applications can only be made after receiving your final results confirming you have successfully completed the programme you were enrolled in. (Provisional results will not be accepted). 

You have 6 months after being notified by Trinity College Dublin about the completion of your programme to apply. 

At the time of your application, you must hold a current Stamp 2 student immigration permission and an up-to-date immigration registration card (IRP card). 

You must be physically present in Ireland to apply.  

Important! We recommend you apply as soon as you have received your final results. If you delay your application and your Stamp 2 expires, including during the processing waiting time, your application could be refused.  

What work entitlements does the Stamp 1G give me, and what are the limitations?

• You may work up to 40 hours per week. 
• There is no restriction on work category or salary level.
• You may undertake a part-time course while working. 
• You are not permitted to operate a business or be self-employed. 
• Until obtaining the Stamp 1G permission, you are bound by the conditions of the Stamp 2 (student) permission, including limitations on working hours during term time. 

What do I need when applying for the first time?

• Biometric page of your current valid passport. 

• IRP card indicating your current valid Stamp 2 permission. 

• Proof you have successfully completed your third level course. You can use a degree certificate/parchment, completion letter or final transcript. The final transcript is the earliest document you can obtain. For details on how to request your transcript, please visit Academic Registry.

Important! The transcript must confirm that you have completed the qualification for which you were enrolled, including all required modules and your dissertation, in accordance with Immigration Service Delivery guidelines. For example, if you enrolled at Trinity as a Master’s student, the letter must verify that you have obtained the Master’s degree, not just a diploma. 

• Private Health Insurance (purchased in Ireland).  

Important! Your health insurance must cover accidents & medical incidents including hospital stays for the duration of your residence. Travel insurance will not be accepted. 

• €300 fee (Paid by credit card or debit card) 

What do I need when I am extending my Stamp 1G for the second 12 months? (Relevant to Master's or PhD graduates):

• Biometric page of your current valid passport 
• IRP card indicating your current Stamp 1G permission 
• Private Health Insurance (purchased in Ireland. NOT Travel insurance).  
• €300 Fee (Credit card or debit card) 
• Evidence you have taken appropriate steps to access suitable graduate level  employment, such as letters from companies or recruitment agencies about you are looking for graduate level employment. 

Where do I apply (first time application and extension)?

All applicants can apply on the ISD online system. NOTE: this link will only work from the Republic of Ireland.  

Please note that immigration regulations are subject to change. For more details about the Third Level Graduate Scheme, please visit the Irish Immigration Service Delivery website.