Ireland is one of the top destinations in Europe for international students to study abroad. Ireland is known for its top universities, high-quality education, various course options, career opportunities, top multinational companies, warm and welcoming environment, beautiful landscapes and post-study work visa. Ireland’s post-study work visa allows you to stay in the country after you have finished your studies to work and find a job.
If you are enlisted as a full-time student and have the Visa Stamp 2 you may be qualified for the Third Level Graduate Scheme. The graduate scheme allows you to remain in Ireland after you study to seek employment for up to 24 months (renewable after 12 months). Later on, you can apply for a green card (renamed Critical Skills Employment Permit) or work permit (renamed General Employment Permit).
Table of Contents:
- Ireland Post-Study Work Visa Duration and Levels
- Critical Skills Employment Permit
- General Employment Permit
- How to Get a Work Permit in Ireland?
- Frequently Asked Questions
Ireland Post-Study Work Visa Duration and Levels
Ireland’s post-study work visa extension time depends on the level of the National Framework of Qualifications. The details are tabulated below:
| Level of Education | Ireland Post Study Work Permit Duration |
| Level 7 – Ordinary Bachelor’s Degree (three years courses) | 12 Months |
| Level 8 – Honors Bachelor’s Degree / Higher Diploma (four years courses) | 12 Months |
| Level 9 – PG Diploma / Master’s Degree | 24 Months |
| Level 10 – Doctoral Degree / Higher Doctorate | 24 Months |
Critical Skills Employment Permit
Critical Skills Employment Permit allows students to work in those occupations where there is a shortage of skills in Ireland. The government of Ireland keeps updating the occupation list. The Critical Skills Employment Permit is designed to attract highly skilled people to Ireland from foreign countries to contribute to the economy of Ireland and to take up permanent residence.
Eligibility Criteria for the Critical Skills Employment Permit
The eligibility criteria for the Critical Skills Employment Permit are as follows:
- Employer must be registered in Ireland
- The prospective employee must have secured employment for at least 2 years and must possess the required qualifications, skills and experience
- 50% or more of the employees must be EEA nationals. This requirement may be waived for start-up companies and companies supported by Enterprise Ireland or IDA Ireland
- A third-level degree or diploma is accepted by the Nursing and Midwifery Board for registration to practice as a nurse or midwife
- For important occupations listed in the Critical Skills Occupations List and the applicant has a suitable degree or higher, the base salary must be at least €38,000
- When the minimum annual income is over €64,000, the applicant must have relevant experience if not a degree
General Employment Permit
A General Employment Permit is used to draw 3rd country nationals into fields that are experiencing a labor or skill shortage. The permit can be issued for 2 years and can be renewed for a further three years. After 5 years, the candidate is eligible to apply for long-term residency. The details for the permit are as follows:
- The job must have a minimum salary of €34,000 per year
- The Labour Market Needs Test (LMNT) has been carried out by the employer
- 50% of workers must be EEA nationals. This requirement can be waived when the company has a letter of support from Enterprise Ireland or IDA Ireland
How to Get a Work Permit in Ireland?
Ireland’s work visa processing time is 8 weeks from the date on which your application is submitted. You can apply for your work permit online. The process to apply for a work permit in Ireland is as follows:
- Find jobs and start applying for all the jobs via all the job sites
- Once you have received your job offer, apply for your visa
- Apply for your work permit visa up to 3 months before your date of travel to the country via the Employment Permits Online website
- Add your passport number and expiry date along with your name
- Register with your details of redundancy, employment, and remuneration
Frequently Asked Questions
Is IELTS required for an Ireland work visa?
Yes, IELTS is required for Ireland work visas. Candidates are required to prove their English language proficiency.
What is Ireland’s processing time for study visa applications?
Ireland’s study visa processing time is 8 weeks from the date of submission of your application.
Can I travel outside Ireland while on a post-study work visa?
Yes, you can travel outside Ireland while on the post-study work visa.
Can I be self-employed on a Critical Skills Employment Permit visa in Ireland?
No, the Critical Skills Employment Permit visa does not permit self-employment. Your employer must be registered in Ireland.
Can I use the post-study work visa for remote jobs in Ireland?
No, you will have to work for an Irish employer, which means you’ll need to be physically present to fulfill the visa requirements.
