Third Level Graduate Scheme: new rules for students from outside the EEA (Stamp 1G)

The Third Level Scheme allows graduates from non-EEA countries who have been awarded a degree from a recognised third level education institution in Ireland to remain in Ireland for a period after their studies for the purpose of seeking employment.

On May 31, the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) published new rules for this programme, which you can view here.

The main change is that a person who qualifies can now be granted an extension to their current student permission, with an immigration Stamp 1G, for a period of up to 24 months, depending on their level of study. Those eligible to remain for up to 24 months (graduates of level 9 and 10 programmes) will be given permission to remain initially for 12 months, and will then need to renew their visa for a further 12 months.

The ICOS guide to the Third Level Graduate Scheme has been updated to reflect these new rules.