Student work rights in Ireland
Rules for working while studying in Ireland, including work limits, internships, tax steps and post-study routes where covered by the guide.
Read the complete Ireland study abroad guide.
Part-time Jobs
Eligible Stamp 2 students may work up to 20 hours per week during term and up to 40 hours per week during the immigration service's defined holiday periods: June, July, August and September, plus 15 December to 15 January. These are immigration limits, so your college calendar does not create an extra 40-hour period.
You normally need a PPS number for employment. From 1 January 2026, Ireland's national minimum wage for workers aged 20 and over is EUR 14.15 per hour; lower age-based rates can apply to younger workers. Employment must remain compatible with your student permission.
Source: https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-study-in-ireland/frequently-asked-questions-for-students/
Post-study Work
Under the Third Level Graduate Programme, an eligible Level 8 graduate can receive 12 months on Stamp 1G. Eligible graduates at Level 9 or above can receive up to 24 months, normally as an initial 12 months followed by a further 12 months when the renewal conditions are met. The route is intended to let graduates seek qualifying employment and move into the employment-permit system.
Do not assume a normal taught master's automatically creates family sponsorship rights. Under the June 2026 family-reunification policy, ordinary students and graduates under the Third Level Graduate Programme are generally not eligible sponsors; relevant exceptions include PhD students and certain ISD-approved scholarship students, subject to conditions.
Source: https://www.irishimmigration.ie/coming-to-study-in-ireland/third-level-graduate-programme/
Common questions
What should international students know about work in Ireland?
Stamp 2 permits 20 hours in term and 40 hours only during the defined holiday periods.
What should international students know about post study in Ireland?
Stamp 1G gives eligible Level 8 graduates 12 months and Level 9+ graduates up to 24 months.