Study In Ireland: Third Level Graduate Programme in Ireland. For many international students, the dream of studying in Ireland doesn’t end with graduation — it’s only the beginning. Ireland’s Third Level Graduate Programme (TLGP) is one of the most attractive post-study work pathways in Europe, offering graduates the opportunity to remain in the country, gain valuable work experience, and even transition into long-term residency opportunities.
At SVAbroad Connect, we have helped numerous students navigate this program successfully. This guide breaks down everything you need to know — from eligibility and duration to work rights, extensions, and strategic advice for landing a job during this period.
What Is the Third Level Graduate Programme (TLGP)?
The Third Level Graduate Programme is an Irish immigration scheme that allows eligible non-EU/EEA graduates to remain in Ireland after completing their degree to seek employment and gain work experience.
The main aim of the program is to help international students transition from study to skilled work, especially in high-demand sectors such as technology, healthcare, business, engineering, and finance.
In simpler terms:
👉 You finish your degree in Ireland.
👉 Ireland gives you extra time to stay legally.
👉 You use that time to find a job, build experience, or switch to a work permit.
Who Is Eligible?
You may qualify for the TLGP if:
1. You completed a degree from an Irish higher education institution
From a recognized university or institute of technology.
Eligible qualifications include:
- Level 8: Honours Bachelor’s Degree
- Level 9: Master’s Degree
- Level 10: PhD
- Professional diplomas that meet NFQ criteria
2. Your degree is listed on the NFQ (National Framework of Qualifications)
Only NFQ-level programs count — so always confirm this when applying to schools.
3. You have a valid Stamp 2 student visa
You must apply before your Stamp 2 expires.
4. You can prove good academic standing
This includes:
- Pass results (no unapproved repeats)
- Official transcript or letter of completion
5. You comply with previous visa requirements
No immigration violations or overstay records.
How Long Can You Stay Under the TLGP?
The duration depends on the degree level you completed:
| Qualification Level | NFQ Level | TLGP Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Honours Bachelor’s Degree | Level 8 | 12 months |
| Master’s Degree or Higher | Levels 9–10 | 24 months |
Important note:
The 24-month allowance for Master’s and PhD graduates is typically granted in two phases:
- Initial 12-month permission
- Followed by a second 12-month extension, subject to eligibility
What Are Students Allowed to Do During the TLGP?
The Third Level Graduate Programme gives you broad rights — but also has limits you must understand clearly.
1. Work Rights
During your TLGP, you may:
✔ Work full-time, up to 40 hours per week
This is a major benefit compared to the 20-hour limit during studies.
✔ Work in any field initially
Even if it’s not directly related to your degree, though moving into a relevant field is strongly recommended for long-term permit applications.
✔ Apply for critical skills or general employment permits
This is the next step to staying in Ireland long-term.
2. No Study Requirement
Unlike your student visa, the TLGP does not require you to be enrolled in any course.
However, many students use this period for:
- Professional certifications
- Skill-building courses
- Internships
- Graduate programs
All of these strengthen your transition into skilled employment.
3. Travel Rights
You can leave and re-enter Ireland freely as long as:
- Your TLGP permission is valid
- Your immigration card (IRP) is up to date
- You follow travel rules for non-EU residents
How to Apply for the Third Level Graduate Programme
The application process is straightforward, but you must be precise and timely.
Step 1: Obtain official proof of completion
Your university must issue:
- A letter of completion, and
- Your final transcript, or
- Confirmation of award level (NFQ)
Tip: Request these early — many students delay their application because of waiting times.
Step 2: Book your IRP (Immigration Registration) appointment
Depending on your location:
- Dublin students use the online booking portal
- Students outside Dublin book through their local immigration office
Step 3: Attend your appointment with the required documents
Typical documents include:
- Passport
- IRP card (Stamp 2)
- Proof of address
- Proof of graduation
- €300 registration fee
- Health insurance
Step 4: Receive your new Stamp 1G permission
This stamp is your official post-study permission under the TLGP.
What Is Stamp 1G?
Stamp 1G is the immigration permission issued to graduates under the Third Level Graduate Programme.
It allows you to:
- Work full-time (40 hours/week)
- Seek employment
- Transition to a work permit
- Bring dependents later through the proper pathways
After securing a full-time job with a qualifying salary, you can move from:
Stamp 1G → Critical Skills Permit → Stamp 4 (Residency)
This is the typical pathway students use to build long-term careers in Ireland.
Can You Renew or Extend the Programme?
Yes — but only for specific levels.
✔ Level 8 Graduates
- Can stay 12 months
- No further extension
✔ Level 9+ Graduates
- Can extend from 12 months to 24 months
- Must show progress in job search or industry engagement
Extensions depend on:
- Proof of job applications
- Participation in interviews
- Career development efforts
Common Mistakes Students Make — And How to Avoid Them
At SVAbroad Connect, we’ve seen students miss out simply because they didn’t understand the rules.
Here are the most common pitfalls:
Waiting until their visa is about to expire
Always apply early.
Not requesting their completion letter on time
Universities can take weeks to release documents.
Believing part-time restaurant jobs are enough
Use this period to target graduate programs, internships, and industry roles.
Not adjusting their CV to Irish standards
Irish recruiters expect concise, achievement-based CVs.
Not networking
Ireland’s job market relies heavily on referrals and connections.
We guide our students through every step of these challenges so nothing is left to chance.
Why the TLGP Matters — Real Outcomes
Through this programme, many international students have:
- Landed jobs at companies like Google, Pfizer, Meta, Intel, EY, Accenture, Stripe, TikTok, Dell, and Medtronic
- Transitioned from Stamp 1G to Critical Skills Employment Permits
- Qualified for Stamp 4, granting residency rights
- Built careers in tech, engineering, healthcare, finance, logistics, and more
Ireland’s government created the TLGP specifically to retain global talent — and international students are benefiting from it every year.
Final Thoughts — Your Post-Study Journey Starts Here
The Third Level Graduate Programme is one of Ireland’s strongest advantages for international students. It gives you:
- Time
- Freedom
- Access
- A pathway to long-term opportunities
But to make the most of it, you need preparation, clarity, and expert guidance.
Thinking About Studying in Ireland?
Let SVAbroad Connect Guide You — 0% Agency Fees, 100% Transparency**
At SVAbroad Connect, we help you with:
✔ University & course selection
✔ Visa guidance with zero service charge
✔ Preparing for TLGP requirements
✔ CV reviews and job preparedness support
✔ Accommodation, budgeting & travel planning
Your journey shouldn’t be confusing.
With the right support, Ireland becomes more than a destination — it becomes your opportunity.
