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How much visa extension is possible after completing the 18 months post-study work visa in Ireland and the UK?

08 Jul 2026 · Answered by Pallavi Attri · 1 min read
Pallavi Attri
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No, you cannot directly extend the post-study work visa (PSW) in either Ireland or the UK after the initial period.

- Ireland: The Third Level Graduate Programme (Stamp 1G) allows up to 24 months after graduation. This cannot be extended. To stay longer, you must secure employer sponsorship for a work permit, such as the Critical Skills or General Employment Permit.
- UK: The Graduate Visa allows up to 2 years (18 months from January 2027) after graduation. This also cannot be extended. To remain longer, you must switch to a different visa, like the Skilled Worker Visa, which requires employer sponsorship.

Visa rules are subject to change. For personalized guidance, please contact your LeapScholar counsellor.

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