Working in Ireland
Please note that the information below is for guideline purposes only. Students should familiarise themselves with the Immigration Guidelines for Degree Students
Working while Studying
International students that hold an immigration stamp 2 are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during the university term. During the holiday period students can work on a full time basis – up to 40 hours per week.
Undertaking an internship (Cooperative Education)
Students enrolled on a degree programme are allowed to undertake an internship where this forms part of their course.
Working after your degree - Third Level Graduate Scheme
What is the Graduate Scheme ?
The Graduate scheme enables non-EEA third level graduates to remain in Ireland for period of time after they have graduated from their respective course. During this period of time they can seek employment and work in Ireland without an employment permit. Entry to the scheme is facilitated by application and the start of the scheme is based on the official receipt of exam results.
Twelve Month Graduate Scheme
This scheme is open to a non-EEA student who has on or after 1 January 2007 acquired an Honours Degree, a Masters Degree, a Post-Graduate Diploma or a Doctorate Degree, i.e. a qualification from level 8 – 10 on the National Framework of Qualification from an Irish third level educational institution.
Applying for the Graduate Scheme
It is important to note that third level graduates are not automatically included on this scheme, i.e. individuals must apply for entry on to the scheme. Applications may be made at the applicant’s local Garda Síochána registration office.
Application Documents Required
• An original letter signed by the College Registrar (on the headed paper of the College) stating that the applicant has completed the course of study satisfactorily and the qualification gained
• Current passport
• Current Certificate of Registration issued by the Garda National Immigration Bureau.
Application Fees
The normal fees for the issuing of Certificates of Registration will apply to this Scheme.
Permission to remain
Persons who qualify under this scheme will be granted one non-renewable extension to their current student permission (Stamp 2) for a 12 month period starting on the date upon which the person receives their exam results. The purpose of the permission to remain under this Scheme is to seek employment and gain a Hosting Agreement, Green Card or Work Permit.
Conditions
A person granted an extension to their permission to remain in the State under the Graduate Scheme shall be subject to the following terms and conditions:
• Will be allowed to work for up to 40 hours per week without an employment permit
• Will not engage in self employment or operate a business in the State
It is important to note the following:
A student can only avail of the Third Level Graduate Scheme once.
Once a student has availed of the Irish Third Level Graduate Scheme they are not permitted to re-enter full time education and to be registered as a student at the end of this period.
Expiry
This scheme shall automatically expire after a period of 12 months.