Stamp 2 Visa Guide
The Stamp 2: Ireland's Study and Work Permission Explained
Everything you need to know about the Stamp 2 student permission. What it is, how to get it, what it lets you do, and what comes next.
What Is the Stamp 2?
The Stamp 2 is an Irish immigration permission, a stamp in your passport granted by Irish immigration officers when you arrive in Ireland as a student. It is the legal status that allows you to study English full-time and work part-time simultaneously.
A student permission
Stamp 2 is your legal status as a full-time student in Ireland. You must be enrolled in a recognized course of at least 25 weeks at an ILEP-listed school to qualify.
Work rights included
Unlike a tourist visa, Stamp 2 gives you the legal right to work up to 20 hours per week during your course and 40 hours during official school holidays.
Valid for your course duration
Stamp 2 is issued for the duration of your enrolled course. It can be extended if you enroll in additional courses. Extensions are processed through GNIB.
Requires IRP registration
Within 90 days of arriving in Ireland, you must register with GNIB and pay €300 to receive your IRP card — the physical proof of your Stamp 2 permission.
Requirements to Qualify
To receive the Stamp 2 student permission, you must meet the following requirements at entry and maintain them throughout your stay.
- Enrollment in a recognized English language school on the ILEP list
- Course duration of at least 25 weeks
- Proof of accessible funds (approximately €6,665 in your bank account)
- Valid passport with at least 12 months of remaining validity
- Basic medical insurance for the full course duration
- Clean criminal record from your home country
- No previous visa violations or overstays in any country
- Genuine intention to study (immigration may ask questions on arrival)
Requirements for pre-entry visa applications vary by nationality. Some Latin American nationalities must apply for an Irish student visa at the embassy before traveling. Book a free consultation to confirm exactly what applies to your country.
How to Get Your Stamp 2
The process from decision to arrival. We guide you through every step.
Book a free consultation
We confirm whether you qualify, check if your nationality requires a pre-entry visa application, and outline your exact process and timeline.
Choose your school and course
We match you with a recognized language school on the ILEP list for your budget, level, and preferred city. You enroll in a course of at least 25 weeks.
Prepare your documents
School enrollment letter, proof of funds, valid passport, criminal record certificate, and medical insurance. We prepare and review your full document pack.
Apply for pre-entry visa (if required)
Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply at the Irish embassy in your country before traveling. Some nationalities travel directly without a pre-entry visa.
Arrive in Ireland
Immigration officers at the airport review your documents and stamp your passport with Stamp 2. This is your legal permission to study and work.
Register for your IRP card
Within 90 days of arrival, register with GNIB and pay the €300 fee to receive your IRP card. This is what employers and landlords will ask to see.
Your Work Rights with Stamp 2
One of the biggest advantages of the Stamp 2 is the legal right to work. Here is exactly what you are entitled to.
During your course
20 hours per week
When school is in session, you can work a maximum of 20 hours per week. This is a hard limit enforced by Irish immigration. Working more during term time is a visa violation.
During school holidays
40 hours per week
During official school holidays (Christmas, Easter, and summer breaks), you can work full-time. These holidays typically total 12 to 14 weeks per year.
Minimum wage
above €14 per hour
Ireland has one of the highest minimum wages in Europe. Working 20 hours per week generates approximately €1,120 per month before tax — enough to cover most living costs.
You can work in any sector — hospitality, retail, logistics, customer service, and many others. You do not need a separate work permit. Your Stamp 2 and IRP card are sufficient.
Realistic Timeline
From your first consultation to your first day in Ireland.
Week 1 to 2
Free consultation, school selection, course enrollment
Week 2 to 6
Document preparation and review
Week 4 to 8
Pre-entry visa application (if required for your nationality)
Week 8 to 12
Arrival in Ireland
Timelines vary by nationality. Some can complete the process in 6 to 8 weeks. Others with pre-entry visa requirements may need 3 to 4 months. We confirm your exact timeline in the first consultation.
Stamp 2 Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Start Your Stamp 2 Process?
Book a free 15-minute consultation. We confirm if you qualify and walk you through your exact process.