In 2022, Malik arrived in Dublin to pursue a Master of Philosophy in literature at Trinity College. While studying, she taught international‑exchange programmes and later coordinated events for the law school. The position kept her financially stable until her work permit, granted under the Third Level Graduate Scheme, expired in early 2026.
She lodged an extension application in March, a step the Irish Department of Justice said should have closed within six months. Eight months later, the paperwork remained pending, and in February the university terminated her contract because she lacked valid work permission. Malik said the loss of income forced her to lean on savings and a student loan from India.
On October 5, a government letter announced a proposed deportation order under the Immigration Act 1999. Malik turned the notice into material for her stand‑up gigs, opening an envelope on stage to read the text aloud and asking the audience if they knew they were friends with a criminal. The Guardian reported that reading the notice blurred the line between performance and reality.
The case echoes a wider crisis: 2,700 student‑visa extensions are still in limbo, a figure the Department of Justice said depends on complexity and staff capacity.
Malik has set a departure date for November 14, 2026, choosing to leave voluntarily rather than wait for dispatch. The authorities will enforce the order shortly after her departure, and the state will scrutinize her case for potential reforms.