Ireland is increasingly popular among international students with its renowned universities and vibrant cultural life. It provides an enriching environment for both academic and personal development for anyone looking to excel in these areas. As an emerging global tech hub, the country hosts many leading global companies, such as Facebook, Amazon, Apple, Netflix and Google, making it particularly more attractive for those inclined towards technology and innovation.
Another very significant advantage of studying here is the Ireland post-study work visa which expands opportunities for international graduates. In this article, we’ll talk about post-study work in Ireland – the Ireland post-study work visa requirements, eligibility critera and some tips on landing a job in the country after graduation.
Does Ireland have a post-study work visa?
Yes, the Ireland post-study work visa is called the Third Level Graduate Programme. It allows legally residing Irish educated non-EEA graduates who hold a level 8 or level 9 award from a recognised Irish awarding body to remain in Ireland after their studies for a period of 12 or 24 months. Graduates holding a level 8, based on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ), may stay up to 12 months. Applicants with an NFQ level 9 or higher will be granted permission for 12 months initially. However, they may renew for another 12 months subject to the overall limit of eight years.
The Third Level Graduate Programme is open to any non-EEA graduate who has:
- completed their studies in Ireland on any program listed on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP)
- been awarded a qualification at an NFQ level 8 (honours bachelor degree or higher diploma) or higher by a recognised Irish awarding body.
Applicants must have a valid Stamp 2 student immigration permission. They must also not have applied for the program on more than two separate occasions. Students looking to register would need to prepare the following Ireland post-study work visa requirements:
- a copy of the award granted to them
- their valid passport
- medical insurance
- a fee of €300 to register.
Finding post-study work in Ireland
One of the main reasons students choose to pursue their education in this country is because of the possibility of working in Ireland after graduation. But how doable and realistic is it for international students to secure employment after graduation?
According to Higher Education Authority’s (HEA) Graduate Outcomes 2020, 71.7% of international graduates are working in Ireland nine months after graduation. Moreover, two-fifths of international graduates earning more than €35,000 annually. This, coupled with the fact that many global tech giants set up their European headquarters in Ireland, makes the odds seem good.
To further guide international students with working in Ireland after graduation, here are a few helpful tips they can keep in mind:
- Students should set up job alerts on online platforms like LinkedIn and Indeed to stay informed about opportunities. 23.3% of international students in Ireland source employment via social media and professional networking sites. Meanwhile, 21.1% source through recruitment sites.
- With hiring processes now largely online, students should focus on highlighting their past achievements and experiences in their resumes and during their interviews to make a strong impression from the get-go.
- When applying, students should show a real interest in the organisation’s work and clearly express what draws you to it.
- Students should maximise their resources by utilising the interview preparation skills taught in their courses and referring to their university’s job boards.
- Students shouldn’t be afraid to seek help from within their networks, such as their seniors, professors, former colleagues and advisors. Asking for their advice and insights will be valuable, as they would have the current market experience and understand its trends.
Finding work after graduation is a priority of almost all international students. With the right research and support, it’s definitely an attainable endeavour. For more information on the Ireland post-study work visa and post-study work in Ireland to help you guide your students, visit our blogs and reach out to our business development experts today.
