A new immigration stamp – Stamp 1G - is available for foreign graduates who are authorized to work under the Third Level Graduate Scheme, according to an announcement by the Immigration Naturalisation and Immigration Service.
Previously, graduates who applied under the Third Level Graduate Scheme were granted a Stamp 2, which was the same stamp for all non-European Economic Area (EEA) graduates, regardless of whether or not they were eligible to work.
Key Facts on the New Stamp
- The Stamp 1G will appear on Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) cards issued on or after February 1, 2016.
- The Stamp 1G will distinguish eligible graduates from other non-EEA students who are not permitted to work full time under the Third Level Graduate Scheme.
What this Means for Employers and Foreign Nationals
Non-EEA students who wish to stay Ireland after they graduate must still apply under the Third Level Graduate Scheme, but they should benefit from the new stamp which clarifies their right to work.
Employers should note that graduates who were issued immigration stamps under the Third Level Graduate Scheme prior to February 1, 2016 will still hold GNIB cards bearing Stamp 2.
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