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After completing an MBA abroad, do I get a three-year work permit to search for a job in Ireland/Australia?

31 Aug 2026 · Answered by Pallavi Attri · 1 min read
Quick Answer verified

No, a standard MBA graduate does not automatically get a three year permit in either country. Ireland grants a 2 year Stamp 1G, given as 12 months plus a 12 month extension. Australia grants a 2 year Subclass 485 visa for a standard coursework MBA.

Pallavi Attri
Pallavi Attri Verified
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If you are counting on a three year work permit after your MBA, you should adjust your expectations for both Ireland and Australia. Neither country hands a standard MBA graduate three years automatically, though both still give you a solid window to search for work.

Post Study Work Permit Durations For MBA Graduates

CountryVisa TypeDuration For MBA
IrelandStamp 1G, Third Level Graduate Programme2 years, granted as 12 months plus a 12 month extension
AustraliaSubclass 485, Temporary Graduate visa2 years for standard coursework, 3 years reserved for select research degrees

What You Can Do During This Window

In Ireland, you can work full time without employer sponsorship during your Stamp 1G, provided you show active job seeking effort to qualify for the second 12 month extension. In Australia, your Subclass 485 visa lets you work full time in any occupation with no sponsor required.

My Advice

Do not plan your finances around a three year runway from a standard MBA in either country. Treat the 2 years as your real window and use it actively to secure a sponsored role before it runs out.

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