1. Introduction: What Is Stamp 1G in Ireland?
Stamp 1G is a type of Irish residence permission granted to:
- Non-EEA graduates from Irish higher education institutions under the Third Level Graduate Programme, and
- Spouses or dependents of Critical Skills Employment Permit (CSEP) holders.
It allows eligible individuals to live and work in Ireland legally, usually without needing an employment permit.
Key Benefits of Stamp 1G
✅ Permission to work full-time (up to 40 hours/week)
✅ Stay in Ireland to seek employment after graduation
✅ Family members of skilled workers can live and work in Ireland
✅ Pathway to long-term residence or Stamp 4
2. Who Is Eligible for Stamp 1G?
Stamp 1G applies to two main categories of applicants:
1️⃣ Graduates – Third Level Graduate Programme
If you’re a non-EEA student who has completed a recognized Irish degree (minimum Level 7 or above), you can stay in Ireland temporarily to find work.
Duration of Stay:
- 12 months – for Ordinary Bachelor’s Degree (Level 7)
- 24 months – for Honours Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD (Level 8–10)
2️⃣ Spouses or Dependents of Critical Skills Employment Permit Holders
If your spouse or parent holds a Critical Skills Employment Permit, you may be granted Stamp 1G.
Duration of Stay:
- Valid for as long as the main permit holder’s visa remains active.
3. Stamp 1G for Graduates – Third Level Graduate Programme
The Third Level Graduate Programme allows international graduates to remain in Ireland to find suitable employment.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, you must:
- Hold a valid Stamp 2 student visa.
- Have completed an NFQ Level 7 qualification or higher from a recognized Irish institution.
- Have received your official degree parchment or transcript.
- Apply within six months of course completion.
Work Rights
- You can work full-time (up to 40 hours/week).
- You cannot be self-employed.
- You can apply for a Critical Skills or General Employment Permit once you secure a qualifying job.
4. Stamp 1G for Spouses and Dependents of Critical Skills Employment Permit Holders
Dependents, spouses, and de facto partners of Critical Skills Employment Permit holders automatically qualify for Stamp 1G upon joining the primary visa holder in Ireland.
Rights and Conditions
- You can work in any occupation without needing a separate employment permit.
- You can reside in Ireland for the same duration as the main permit holder.
- Self-employment is not permitted.
Required Documents
- Valid passport and Irish Residence Permit (IRP)
- Marriage or partnership certificate (for spouses/partners)
- Proof of relationship and cohabitation (e.g., shared bills, joint lease)
- Copy of the primary permit holder’s Critical Skills Employment Permit
5. How to Apply for Stamp 1G (Graduates)
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
- Valid passport
- Valid IRP card (Stamp 2)
- Degree certificate or official transcript from your college
- Proof of Irish address (e.g., utility bill, bank statement)
- Health insurance
Step 2: Book an Appointment
- Use the Irish Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) online booking system.
- Choose your local Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) or registration office.
Step 3: Attend Your Appointment
Bring your documents and €300 registration fee (card or draft payment only).
Step 4: Receive Your IRP with Stamp 1G
Once approved, your IRP card will reflect Stamp 1G and will typically be valid for 12–24 months, depending on your qualification.
6. How to Apply for Stamp 1G (Spouses and Dependents)
Step 1: Collect Documents
- Valid passport
- Current IRP card
- Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate)
- Proof of the primary permit holder’s status (CSEP copy, employment letter, GNIB card)
- Proof of address in Ireland
Step 2: Book and Attend Registration Appointment
Book an appointment via ISD’s registration page. Bring all documents and €300 registration fee.
Step 3: Receive Your Stamp 1G
Upon approval, you’ll receive your new IRP card endorsed with Stamp 1G, granting you residence and full work rights in Ireland.
7. Working Rights Under Stamp 1G
| Category | Work Permissions | Self-Employment |
|---|---|---|
| Graduates | Full-time (max 40 hours/week) | ❌ Not allowed |
| Spouses/Dependents of CSEP Holders | Unlimited employment in any field | ❌ Not allowed |
Stamp 1G holders are encouraged to use this period to find eligible employment for a Critical Skills or General Employment Permit.
8. Renewal and Extensions of Stamp 1G
For Graduates
- Level 7 graduates: 12 months (non-renewable).
- Level 8–10 graduates: May renew once, for a total of 24 months.
- To stay longer, apply for a work permit after securing a qualifying job.
For Dependents/Spouses
- Renewal depends on the validity of the main permit holder’s CSEP.
- When the CSEP holder switches to Stamp 4, dependents can also switch accordingly.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I be self-employed on Stamp 1G?
No, self-employment is not allowed under Stamp 1G. You must work as an employee.
2. How long can I stay on Stamp 1G?
- Graduates: 12 or 24 months depending on qualification level.
- Dependents: As long as the primary CSEP holder remains in valid employment.
3. Can Stamp 1G lead to permanent residency (Stamp 4)?
Yes, time spent on Stamp 1G counts toward Stamp 4 eligibility (after 5 years of lawful residence).
4. Do I need to pay for a new IRP card when switching to Stamp 1G?
Yes, the €300 IRP registration fee applies to all new or updated residence cards.
5. Can I apply for Stamp 1G after a non-degree or short course?
No, you must hold at least an NFQ Level 7 (Ordinary Bachelor’s) degree or higher from a recognized Irish institution.
10. Conclusion
Stamp 1G offers a valuable opportunity for graduates and dependents to work and live in Ireland legally without needing a separate employment permit.
- For graduates, it’s a bridge to long-term employment or work permit eligibility.
- For spouses and dependents, it provides freedom to work and settle while accompanying a skilled worker.
By meeting eligibility criteria, maintaining valid documentation, and following renewal timelines, Stamp 1G holders can successfully transition toward Stamp 4 residency or even long-term settlement in Ireland.
Need immigration assistance?
Contact Martin Taggart – Ireland & UK Immigration Legal Specialist for expert, fixed-fee guidance on your Stamp 1G or residency application.