How long can I stay and work in Ireland after completing a Master's degree, if I apply for the Third Level Graduate Programme (Stamp 1G) within six months of graduation?

Ireland's Third Level Graduate Programme is often described as a flat 24 month stay back option, but it is actually granted in two stages, and missing the timing rules can cost you months of eligible work time.

How The 24 Months Is Actually Structured

• Initial grant: Level 9 master's graduates receive 12 months of Stamp 1G immediately after approval.
• Extension: A further 12 months is available if you can show appropriate steps toward suitable graduate level employment, such as interviews attended or registration with graduate employment agencies.
• Work rights: You can work full-time without needing an employer sponsored permit during this period, though self employment is not permitted.

Application Timeline You Cannot Miss

You must apply within 6 months of the date your institution officially notifies you that you achieved the award, not the date your physical certificate arrives. Provisional results alone are not sufficient; you need acceptable official confirmation of the award. You also need a valid Stamp 2 and current Irish Residence Permit at the time of application. For example, if your master's is confirmed on 30 September, your Stamp 1G deadline would generally fall around 30 March the following year. After approval, processing queues have run several weeks, and the new IRP card can take up to 15 business days by post once approved.

This Information Is Also Available On

Ireland's Immigration Service Delivery (ISD), on its Third Level Graduate Programme and immigration permission stamps pages.

My Advice

In my experience, students underestimate the second 12 month extension because it is not automatic. Start documenting your job search activity from month one, including interview confirmations and agency registrations, so the extension application is straightforward when the first year ends.