Republic of Ireland · study
Irish Student visa (Stamp 2)
By Sam Parks · Last reviewed:
Study permission for international students enrolled at eligible Irish institutions on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes.
- Processing time
- Visa decision typically 4–8 weeks.
- Government fees
- Visa fee €60 single-entry or €100 multi-entry; registration €300.
- Typical duration
- Up to 1 year at a time; renewable during studies.
- Sponsorship required
- Yes
- Leads to permanent residency
- No
Overview
Non-EEA students studying full-time at institutions on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP) receive Stamp 2 permission. Graduates of eligible Level 8–10 programmes can remain for up to 24 months under the Third Level Graduate Scheme.
Eligibility
Typical criteria
- ✓Enrolment on a full-time programme on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes.
- ✓Proof of tuition payment.
- ✓Private medical insurance.
- ✓Maintenance funds (€10,000+ per year typical).
Common blockers
- !Course not on ILEP.
- !Insufficient funds.
Typical evidence
- ·Letter of acceptance and fee payment receipt.
- ·Bank statements.
- ·Insurance certificate.
Application pathway
Accept an offer on an ILEP programme
Secure an unconditional offer and pay tuition.
Apply for entry visa if required
Non-EEA students from visa-required countries apply online.
Register for Stamp 2 on arrival
Register with ISD within 90 days and obtain an Irish Residence Permit.
Consider Graduate Scheme
After Level 8+ award, apply for up to 24 months of unrestricted work under the Third Level Graduate Scheme.
Official application links
Where to actually go next
These are the official pages to use for this route. Open them before preparing documents: the forms, fees, appointment systems, and sponsor steps can change without warning.
- ApplyApplicantApply for an Irish study visa ↗
Visa-required students use AVATS to create the study visa application before submitting documents to the assigned office.
Immigration Service Delivery · verified
- Official guidanceApplicantCheck study route guidance ↗
Use this official page to confirm study permissions, registration and required evidence.
Immigration Service Delivery · verified
Fees and processing time
Indicative government fees: Visa fee €60 single-entry or €100 multi-entry; registration €300.. A decision then typically takes 4 weeks – 8 weeks. Both change over time, so the dedicated pages below carry the itemised breakdown and the current official figures.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I work while studying in Ireland?+
Stamp 2 holders can work up to 20 hours per week during term and up to 40 hours during holidays. Graduate Scheme (Stamp 1G) permits full-time work.
How long can I stay in Ireland to work after I graduate?+
Graduates of eligible Level 8–10 programmes can remain in Ireland for up to 24 months under the Third Level Graduate Scheme after their award, with Stamp 1G permission allowing full-time work. You apply for this after completing your degree; confirm current eligibility with Immigration Service Delivery.
How much money do I need to show for an Irish student visa?+
Applicants typically need to evidence maintenance funds of around €10,000 or more per year, alongside proof of tuition payment and private medical insurance. Insufficient funds is a common reason applications are blocked.
Does studying in Ireland on a student visa lead to permanent residence?+
No. The Irish student permission (Stamp 2) does not itself lead to settlement. You would need to move onto a settlement route, such as an employment permit, afterwards to build toward long-term residence.
Need tailored advice?
We do not provide legal advice. For an application that depends on your exact circumstances, consult a regulator-listed immigration advisor.
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