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Study in Ireland: visa, costs, universities and the Graduate Scheme for Pakistani students
A researched guide with 2026 figures from official and industry sources. Last verified 29 September 2026.
Book free counsellingWhy Pakistani students choose Ireland
- English-speaking EU country with global tech, pharma and finance employers.
- Friendly, safe cities and a compact, well-connected education system.
- Stamp 1G lets eligible graduates stay and work after study.
- Direct access to Europe for travel and career.
Step by step: from offer to visa
- Get an offerApply to a course on the Interim List of Eligible Programmes.
- Pay at least €6,000Or the full fee if lower. Keep the receipt for the visa file.
- Arrange funds and insurance€10,000 in accessible funds, and private medical insurance at the required level.
- Apply via AVATSPay the visa fee, submit the summary form, documents and biometrics.
- Register in IrelandAfter arrival, register for your Stamp 2 and pay the IRP fee.
What it costs (2026)
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Visa fee | €60 single, €100 multiple | Non-refundable. |
| Living funds | €10,000 | Courses over 8 months. Shorter courses need €833 per month. |
| Tuition paid | At least €6,000 | Or the full fee if it is lower. |
| IRP registration | €300 | Paid in Ireland to receive Stamp 2. |
| Medical insurance | Varies | Private cover is required for your stay. |
Fees change often. Always confirm on the official government page before you pay.
Popular universities in Ireland
| University | Known for |
|---|---|
| Trinity College Dublin | Ireland’s oldest and highest-ranked, wide range |
| University College Dublin | Business, science, engineering and medicine |
| University of Galway | Medical technology, marine and humanities |
| University College Cork | Food science, pharma and health |
| Dublin City University | Computing, business and communication |
| University of Limerick | Engineering, co-op and technology |
Check the latest QS or THE rankings and subject rankings for your course.
Work rights, English and after graduation
- Stamp 2 allows 20 hours per week in term time, and 40 hours in June to September and 15 December to 15 January.
- Stamp 1G: up to 12 months after a bachelor’s, and up to 24 months after a master’s or PhD.
- Critical Skills and General Employment Permits are the next work routes for many graduates.
- English: IELTS 6.0 to 6.5 for most degrees, 6.5 or higher for some postgraduate courses.
Scholarships and funding
- Government of Ireland International Education Scholarships.
- University merit awards, often partial tuition.
- Research funding for PhD places through Irish institutions.
- Check eligibility and closing dates on each university page.
Frequently asked questions
How much does an Ireland student visa cost?
The fee is €60 for a single-entry visa and €100 for multiple entry. After arrival you also pay €300 for IRP registration.
How much money must I show?
€10,000 in accessible funds for the first year if the course is over 8 months, plus proof that at least €6,000 of tuition has been paid.
Can I work?
Up to 20 hours per week in term time and up to 40 hours in the holiday periods on Stamp 2.
What is Stamp 1G?
The Third Level Graduate Programme. It allows graduates from NFQ level 8 to 10 courses to stay for 12 months (bachelor’s) or up to 24 months (master’s and PhD).
Is health insurance required?
Yes. Private medical insurance is required for the duration of study.
When should I apply?
Start 6 to 8 months before September or January. Visa processing can take several weeks.
Sources and how we verify
Figures checked on 29 September 2026 against these pages. This guide is general information, not legal or migration advice. Rules and fees change, so confirm with the official authority before you apply.
Study in Ireland with BlueZone Consultants
BlueZone Consultants guides students from Abbottabad, Mansehra, Hazara and across Pakistan through every stage of a Ireland application: choosing the course and university, checking documents and attestation, preparing the offer and visa file, then planning money, housing and arrival.
Your first counselling session is free. Bring your transcripts, passport and English test result if you have one, and we will tell you honestly whether Ireland fits your grades and budget.
Check your options for Ireland
Talk to a counsellor, then use the guides below to prepare.