1. What is a Stamp 2 Visa in Ireland?
The Stamp 2 permission in Ireland is a type of immigration status that allows non-EU/EEA students to study full-time in Ireland at an accredited institution. With this visa, students can work part-time during their studies and full-time during certain holidays, but they are not eligible for state benefits.
Stamp 2 is specifically designed for students who are enrolled in full-time courses listed on Ireland’s Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP), which includes most universities, colleges, and language schools approved by the Irish government.
2. Eligibility Criteria for Stamp 2
To be eligible for a Stamp 2 visa, you must meet these criteria:
- Non-EU/EEA National: Stamp 2 is only available for students from outside the European Union and European Economic Area.
- Enrollment in an ILEP-Listed Course: Your course must be a full-time program on the ILEP list, which includes undergraduate, postgraduate, and certain English language courses.
- Proof of Financial Means: Students must show they have sufficient funds (at least €7,000) to support themselves while studying in Ireland.
- Health Insurance: Non-EU students must have private health insurance or insurance from their educational institution.
Meeting these requirements is essential for securing a Stamp 2 visa and maintaining legal status in Ireland during your studies.
3. Rights and Restrictions on a Stamp 2 Visa
Stamp 2 provides specific rights to study and work part-time in Ireland, but it also has limitations:
- Work Rights: Students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours per week during official school holidays (June, July, August, and December 15 to January 15).
- No State Benefits: Stamp 2 holders are not eligible for public benefits or housing assistance.
- Study Only: Stamp 2 is granted exclusively for educational purposes. Students must remain enrolled in their program and attend classes to keep their visa valid.
Failing to comply with these requirements can lead to the loss of Stamp 2 status.
4. Application Process for a Stamp 2 Visa
Step 1: Apply for an Irish Study Visa (if outside Ireland)
If you’re outside Ireland, you must apply for a Study Visa at your nearest Irish consulate or visa application center.
- Complete the Online Visa Application: Visit INIS (Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service) to complete the online visa application form.
- Submit Supporting Documents: Required documents include a valid passport, proof of enrollment, financial support evidence, and health insurance.
- Pay the Visa Fee: The fee for a single-entry visa is €60, and a multi-entry visa is €100.
Once approved, you’ll receive a visa to enter Ireland, where you can then register for Stamp 2.
Step 2: Register with Irish Immigration
After arriving in Ireland, students must visit their local Immigration Office to obtain a Stamp 2 permission.
- Make an Appointment: Schedule an appointment with the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) in Dublin or at a local Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB).
- Provide Biometric Data: At your appointment, you’ll provide biometric data (fingerprints and photo).
- Receive Your IRP Card: If approved, you will receive an Irish Residence Permit (IRP) card showing your Stamp 2 status.
5. Documents Needed for Stamp 2 Registration in Ireland
To register for Stamp 2 status, bring the following documents to your immigration appointment:
- Passport: Must be valid for the duration of your course.
- Letter of Enrollment: An official letter from your institution confirming your enrollment in an ILEP-listed course.
- Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or a financial guarantee showing you have at least €7,000.
- Health Insurance: Private health insurance or coverage provided by your school.
- Visa/Entry Stamp: Proof of your visa approval if you applied from outside Ireland.
These documents help verify your eligibility and ensure a smooth registration process.
6. Cost of Stamp 2 and Irish Residence Permit (IRP)
The fee to register for the Irish Residence Permit (IRP) and obtain Stamp 2 status is €300. This fee is paid during your registration appointment at the immigration office and is required each time you renew your Stamp 2 status.
7. Renewing Your Stamp 2 Visa
Stamp 2 is valid for the duration of your study program, but it must be renewed annually if your program exceeds one year. To renew, follow these steps:
- Apply for Renewal Online: Complete the renewal process through the INIS portal if you’re in Dublin or visit your local GNIB office if elsewhere in Ireland.
- Provide Updated Documentation: Submit current proof of enrollment, financial support, and health insurance.
- Pay the Renewal Fee: The renewal fee for Stamp 2 is €300.
It’s essential to renew before your IRP card expires to avoid gaps in your status.
8. Pathway to Post-Study Visas and Employment
After completing your studies, Stamp 2 students may be eligible to stay in Ireland for work through:
- Stamp 1G: Graduates can apply for Stamp 1G under the Third Level Graduate Scheme, which allows recent graduates to stay and work in Ireland for up to 2 years (1 year for bachelor’s graduates, extendable to 2 years for master’s graduates).
- Employment Permits: Students can also apply for a work visa or employment permit if they secure a job offer from an Irish employer.
The Stamp 1G visa is an excellent opportunity for students who want to gain work experience in Ireland after their studies.
9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I work full-time on a Stamp 2 visa?
A: Yes, but only during official school holidays. During term time, work is limited to 20 hours per week.
Q2: Can I bring dependents on a Stamp 2 visa?
A: No, Stamp 2 does not allow dependents. Dependents must apply separately for their own visa.
Q3: What happens if I stop studying while on a Stamp 2 visa?
A: If you stop attending classes or leave your program, your Stamp 2 visa may be canceled, making you ineligible to remain in Ireland.
Q4: Can I change my course while on a Stamp 2 visa?
A: Yes, but the new course must also be listed on the ILEP, and you must inform immigration authorities of the change.
Q5: Is health insurance mandatory for Stamp 2 holders?
A: Yes, you must have private health insurance, either from your home country, the institution, or a provider in Ireland.
Q6: Can I switch from Stamp 2 to a work permit after graduation?
A: Yes, graduates can apply for Stamp 1G or a work permit if they secure a qualifying job offer.