If you’re an international graduate or jobseeker in Ireland with a Stamp 1G immigration permission that’s about to expire, there may still be a pathway forward. The Stamp 1G Extension gives you a vital opportunity to remain in Ireland while seeking eligible employment or finalising your employment permit application.
If your permission is about to expire and you have already exhausted your two-year limit after a Master’s degree or one-year limit after a Bachelor’s degree under the Third Level Graduate Programme, you may still be able to apply for a short-term Stamp 1G extension in certain circumstances. However, such extensions are typically discretionary and subject to strict criteria set by the Irish Immigration Service Delivery (ISD).
🛂 What is a Stamp 1G Extension?
The Stamp 1G Extension allows eligible non-EEA nationals to remain legally in Ireland for an additional 6 to 12 months beyond their current Stamp 1G expiry date. This time can be used to:
Secure a job eligible for a General Employment Permit or Critical Skills Employment Permit.
Complete an employment permit application already in progress.
Recover from serious illness or injury that disrupted your ability to work or apply for a permit during your initial Stamp 1G period.
✅ Who Can Apply for a Stamp 1G Extension?
You may be eligible if any of the following apply:
- You're still job hunting:You haven’t yet secured a job offer eligible for a work permit, and your Stamp 1G is due to expire soon.
- You have a job but are still awaiting your permit:You’ve secured employment in Ireland and are currently applying for a work permit, but the process is ongoing and your 1G permission is nearing its end.
- You have experienced medical challenges:You became critically ill or seriously injured during your Stamp 1G period and need more time due to the impact on your employment search or work status.
🗓️ When Should You Apply?
Timing is crucial. You can only apply for an extension 6 to 8 weeks before your current Stamp 1G expires. Applying earlier than that may not be accepted, and applying too late could leave you without legal residency status in Ireland.
⏳ Processing Times
Once submitted, your application can take up to 2 months to be processed. If approved, the Department of Justice will issue a letter confirming the length of your extension – which could be 6 months, or in some cases, 12 months.
🔁 Can You Extend Stamp 1G More Than Once?
Yes. Depending on your situation, you may be granted multiple extensions, generally for at least 6 months at a time. However, longer extensions (such as 12 months) may be granted in certain cases, especially where an employment permit process is underway or medical issues have occurred.
📌 Final Thoughts
The Stamp 1G Extension is a lifeline for many non-EEA graduates and jobseekers trying to establish a career in Ireland. Whether you're still seeking an eligible job offer, waiting on a work permit approval, or dealing with unforeseen medical issues, this extension can provide much-needed time and peace of mind.
If your Stamp 1G is due to expire within the next two months, don’t delay – begin your extension application now. Staying proactive and organised can make all the difference.
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