Post-study work visas in Ireland available to international graduates

International students are able to gain valuable work experience and begin their careers in Ireland with the country's post-study work visas. Created by the Irish government, the Third Level Graduate Scheme allows graduates to remain in Ireland for up to 24 months after completing your degree.

Depending on the level of higher education you have completed, you may be able to work in Ireland for up to 40 hours a week, gaining valuable experience to help you in your career.

Benefits of a post-study work visa

1. Gain professional experience

After completing your degree, the next step is to put what you’ve learnt into practice – and where better to use your Irish degree than at an Irish company? Develop your practical experience and earn money whilst continuing to learn even more about your subject.

2. Develop your English skills

Spending another two years in Ireland means even more time to practice your language skills. An added benefit of doing this whilst working is that you’ll be learning vocabulary even more specific to your career, which you may not have had the chance to do at university. Employers all over the world look favourably on a strong level of English, so this is a great way to open up employment opportunities worldwide.

3. Discover more of Ireland

A post-study work visa opens up work opportunities across all of Ireland, not just Dublin. Did you visit Cork on a trip and fall in love? Or feel like swapping city living for a new life in the countryside? With a post-study work visa, you’ll have the freedom to live wherever you find work to help you discover more about Ireland.

4. More travel opportunities

One of the biggest benefits of living in Europe is the amount of traveling you can do. With cheap flights and trains available almost everywhere, you’ll be able to discover more of Europe with just a short journey. Dublin is ideally located for exploration and is home to a large international airport flying to many exciting destinations. And with the income you’ll have from working, you’ll have more opportunities than ever to travel.

5. Apply to stay in Ireland even longer

Fallen in love with Ireland? Stay longer! The Third Level Graduate Scheme can even give you the possibility to live and work in Ireland permanently. Depending on your employment, you will have the opportunity to apply for the Critical Skills Employment Permit (often known as a green card) or a General Employment Permit (known as a work permit).