Stamp 2 Ireland –
A Complete Guide

Stamp 2 is an immigration permission in Ireland granted to non-EEA nationals who wish to pursue full-time education in an Irish institution.

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089 9882413

info@expertconsultants.ie

stamp 2 ireland

What is Stamp 2 Ireland?

Stamp 2 Ireland is an immigration permission in Ireland granted to non-EEA nationals who wish to pursue full-time education in an Irish institution. This stamp is specifically for students enrolled in recognized programs at higher education institutions, allowing them to study while also working part-time under certain conditions.
Unlike other work-related stamps, Stamp 2 Ireland is strictly for study purposes, and while it does provide limited work rights, it does not serve as a direct pathway to long-term residency or employment in Ireland.

Who is Eligible for Stamp 2 Ireland?

To qualify for Stamp 2 Ireland, students must meet the following criteria:

  • Must be accepted into a full-time course at an institution listed on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP).
  • Course must be at NFQ Level 6 or higher (e.g., undergraduate or postgraduate degrees).
  • Must have paid tuition fees in full before applying for immigration registration.
  • Must have sufficient financial resources to support themselves while studying.
  • Must have private medical insurance for the duration of their stay.

Students enrolled in language courses or non-degree programs will receive Stamp 2A, which has different work restrictions.

Rights and Restrictions Under Stamp 2

What You Can Do

Study full-time at an approved Irish institution.
Work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during term time.
Work full-time (up to 40 hours per week) during holiday periods (June, July, August, and December 15 to January 15).
Renew Stamp 2 as long as you continue to meet the eligibility criteria.

What You Cannot Do

Work beyond the permitted part-time or full-time hours.
Engage in self-employment or start a business.
Access public funds or state benefits.
Stay in Ireland indefinitely without transitioning to another visa category.

How to Apply for Stamp 2?

1

Secure Admission to a Recognized Course

Secure Admission to a Recognized Course

  • Receive an official letter of acceptance from a recognized Irish institution.
  • Pay your first-year tuition fees in full.
  • Ensure your course is full-time and listed on the ILEP.

2

Gather Required Documents

  • Valid passport.
  • College acceptance letter confirming full-time enrollment.
  • Evidence of paid tuition fees.
  • Proof of financial support, such as bank statements showing at least €10,000 in available funds.
  • Private medical insurance certificate.

3

Register with Immigration

  • If you are already in Ireland, book an appointment with Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) to register in person.
  • If you are outside Ireland, apply for a long-stay student visa (D visa) before traveling.
  • Upon approval, you will receive your Stamp permission, allowing you to live and study in Ireland.

1

Secure Admission to a Recognized Course

  • Receive an official letter of acceptance from a recognized Irish institution.
  • Pay your first-year tuition fees in full.
  • Ensure your course is full-time and listed on the ILEP.

2

Gather Required Documents

  • Valid passport.
  • College acceptance letter confirming full-time enrollment.
  • Evidence of paid tuition fees.
  • Proof of financial support, such as bank statements showing at least €10,000 in available funds.
  • Private medical insurance certificate.

3

Register with Immigration

  • If you are already in Ireland, book an appointment with Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) to register in person.
  • If you are outside Ireland, apply for a long-stay student visa (D visa) before traveling.
  • Upon approval, you will receive your Stamp permission, allowing you to live and study in Ireland.

Can You Renew Stamp 2?

Yes, but renewals depend on:

  • Continued enrollment in an approved course.
  • Academic progression (students must be advancing to a higher level course, not repeating the same level).
  • Compliance with immigration rules (no visa violations or unauthorized work).

Common Reasons for Stamp 2 ireland Rejections & How to Avoid Them?

  • Non-payment of tuition fees
    Fees must be paid in full before applying.
  • Insufficient financial resources
    You must prove that you can support yourself financially.
  • Non-recognized course
    Ensure your course is on the ILEP list before applying.
  • Failure to comply with visa conditions
    Working beyond allowed hours or poor academic attendance may lead to rejection.

What Happens After Stamp 2 Ireland?

Once your study program ends, your Stamp 2 Ireland status may no longer be valid. However, several options are available:

  • Stamp 1G (Graduate Work Permission)
    If you complete a Level 8 or higher program, you may qualify for Stamp 1G, allowing you to work full-time for a limited period.
  • Employment Permit (Stamp 1)
    If you secure a job offer, you can apply for a General or Critical Skills Employment Permit and transition to Stamp 1.
  • Further Study (Stamp 2 Ireland Renewal)
    If you enroll in a higher-level program, you may renew your Stamp.
  • Leave Ireland
    If you do not qualify for another visa category, you must leave the country before your immigration permission expires.

Planning early helps maximize the benefits of your time under Stamp 2 Ireland and ensures smooth transitions to other immigration routes.

Stamp 2 Ireland is a crucial immigration permission for international students wishing to study in Ireland. It provides an opportunity to gain a high-quality education, work part-time, and potentially transition to post-graduate employment. However, students must carefully follow immigration regulations to ensure smooth renewals and future visa transitions.
If you plan to stay in Ireland after your studies, it is important to plan early and explore pathways like Stamp 1G or employment permits to secure your future in the country.