From Student to Graduate: Moving from Stamp 2 to Stamp 1G in Ireland

Moving from student life to post-study life in Ireland can feel like stepping into the great unknown. For international students, this transition isn’t just about changing timetables or hunting for jobs, it’s about securing your future legally and financially.

One significant source of anxiety is the shift from Stamp 2 to Stamp 1G immigration permission. This blog is designed to help you understand the process, reduce confusion, and hopefully ease some of the stress you may be feeling.

Why Immigration Processes Feel So Stressful

Many international students in Ireland experience anxiety, confusion, and even fear when dealing with immigration processes. Common reasons include:

• Bureaucracy and Paperwork: The volume of documentation and the fear of making a mistake can feel overwhelming.

• High Stakes: A rejected application could threaten your right to remain in Ireland, work, or continue future plans.

• Financial Pressures: Application fees, medical insurance, and living costs all add to the strain.

• Uncertainty: Rules sometimes change, and information can be hard to piece together from different sources.

What is Stamp 1G?

Stamp 1G is part of the Third Level Graduate Programme. It allows legally resident, non-EEA graduates to stay in Ireland to look for graduate-level employment or apply for employment permits.

When to Apply: Don’t Leave it to the Last Minute

A crucial piece of advice: Apply for Stamp 1G at least 12 weeks before your current Stamp 2 permission expires.

This helps you:

• Avoid gaps in your immigration status.

• Have time to gather any missing documents.

• Minimise stress if appointments are booked out.

Example: A Master’s graduate applying in July for a visa expiring in October has a safer margin for resolving unexpected issues, rather than scrambling at the eleventh hour.

How to Apply for Stamp 1G

Here’s a straightforward guide for first-time applicants and those renewing Stamp 1G: Apply Online here.

First-Time Registrations

You will need:

• A copy of the biometric page of your valid passport.

• Copies of the front and back of your current IRP card.

• Proof that you’ve successfully completed your third-level course (either your degree parchment or an official letter from your college).

• Private Medical Insurance or travel insurance covering hospital costs for 12 months or for however long you plan to stay in Ireland. Upload the full policy document in your own name, showing hospital cover and dates of cover.

• A €300 fee for registration.

Tip: Save digital copies of all documents in case you’re asked for additional evidence later.

Renewals (Second Year for Level 9 Graduates)

For Level 9 graduates renewing Stamp 1G, you must show:

• Proof of seeking graduate-level employment, such as:

  • Evidence of job interviews.

  • Registration with recruitment agencies.

• Updated Private Medical Insurance. Note that travel insurance is not enough for renewals.

• Biometric passport page and your current IRP card.

• Proof of your award.

• €300 fee for renewal.

Common Pain Points

Here’s how to manage the biggest challenges that cause anxiety and confusion:

• Document Worries

  Solution: Create a checklist early. Most universities’ international offices offer document reviews and support.

• Timing Confusion

  Solution: Apply 12 weeks in advance. Keep track of your visa expiry date and set reminders.

• Medical Insurance Confusion

  Solution: Use insurers who explicitly state their policy meets INIS requirements. Call and confirm your cover details in writing.

Don’t Lose Hope: Extensions Under Compassionate Circumstances

Many students worry about reaching the end of their normal Stamp 1G permission:

• For Bachelor’s graduates, this is typically 12 months.

• For Master’s graduates, it’s usually 24 months (split into two one-year periods).

If you’ve finished your normal term on Stamp 1G, don’t lose hope. You may apply for a further extension of Stamp 1G under compassionate circumstances, though this is assessed on a case-by-case basis.

For details on this option, read our separate blog here.

Emotional Support: You’re Not Alone

Immigration stress can feel like carrying a weight on your shoulders. Remember:

• Universities offer career counselling, CV clinics and practical immigration help.

• Student unions often run support groups and drop-in sessions

• It’s normal to feel anxious — even locals sometimes grumble about “red tape.”

In Ireland, people often say, “Sure, it’ll be grand,” meaning things will turn out fine in the end. While this might sound vague, there’s truth in it, preparation and the right help usually sort things out.

Final Thoughts

Navigating the move from Stamp 2 to Stamp 1G is a challenge, but it’s one thousands of graduates successfully complete every year. Stay organised, seek support early, and remember that pathways exist even if your circumstances change.

If you’re feeling anxious, start by checking the latest guidelines on the INIS website, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help.