Ireland's Post Study Work Visa Option for Students

by Rita Biswas Consultant

Ireland is not only a beautiful place to stay in but is also a global student destination owing to its world-class Universities, huge choice of programs, and research-driven study. Ireland is also home to more than 1000 MNCs from all over the world, thus establishing a reputation as Europe’s industrial hub.

Studying in Ireland is designed to not only provide high-quality education but also ensure that a student is skilled enough professionally, to handle issues faced in industries. This practical experience is obtained by students who gain work experience through their post-study work visa which is granted provided that the candidate has a valid Ireland Student Visa. The article focuses on post-study work visa options for International students.

Third Level Graduate Program

The latest 2017 revision to this program lays down the guidelines for the post-study work visa. The purpose of the program is to attract high performing students to study at Irish Universities and to retain them after their studies by helping them transition to the Irish workforce and thereby boost the Irish economy.

Duration of Stay

A 12-month post-study visa is granted to graduates with a level 8 qualification and those with a level 9 (Master’s / post-graduate diploma students) or Level 10 (doctoral degree) qualification are granted a 24-month PSW visa. After getting a PSW visa, the student who was previously granted the Stamp 2 receives the Stamp 1G.

Regulations

1. The student must meet the Ireland Study Visa Requirements.

2. A non-EEA graduate who has completed their studies in Ireland and awarded a Level 8 or above qualification according to the National Framework of Qualifications by a recognized Irish institution can apply for the post-study work visa.

3. Applicants should hold a current Stamp 2 student immigration permission and an updated immigration registration card.

4. The student must not have exceeded the 7-year limit, mentioned on their permission as a non-EEA student.

The Stamp 1G allow graduate students to engage in full-time employment (40 Hr./week) with suitable employers. Stamp 1 G holders do not need a work permit during their PSW visa duration.

If the student wishes to work in Ireland after this duration, then they must apply for any one of the following; general employment permit, critical skills employment permit or a research hosting agreement.

This extension of the the PSW visa period was introduced as a way to fill the skills gap in the Irish economy and to pave the way for improved employability of postgraduate students from Irish institutions.

To help students in selecting the right course and institution as per their profile and also provide in-depth information and guidance on Student Visa Requirements, reliable Overseas education consultants must be approached to ensure a hassle-free entry into the foreign study destination of choice.