How Can I Get a Job After Completing My Studies in the Netherlands?

After completing your studies in the Netherlands, international students can stay back and look for work through the Orientation Year (Zoekjaar) Residence Permit. This permit allows graduates to stay in the Netherlands for up to 1 year to search for a job or start a business. Once you secure a suitable full-time job, you can switch to a Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) Residence Permit or another employer-sponsored work permit to continue working and stay longer in the Netherlands.
 

Looking to study in the Netherlands? Talk to Y-Axis, the world’s no. 1 overseas immigration company.
 

Steps to Get a Job in the Netherlands for Graduates

Step 1: Complete a bachelor’s or master’s degree from a recognized Dutch university.

Step 2: Apply for the Orientation Year (Zoekjaar) residence permit before your student permit expires.

Step 3: Prepare a professional CV and cover letter in European (Europass) format.

Step 4: Search for jobs on platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed.nl, Glassdoor, and company career pages.

Step 5: Focus on in-demand sectors such as IT, engineering, data science, logistics, finance, and life sciences.

Step 6: Network with recruiters, attend job fairs, and use university career services.

Step 7: Secure a job offer from a Dutch employer recognised by the IND.

Step 8: Apply for a work residence permit, such as the Highly Skilled Migrant permit.
 

Requirements to Apply for Jobs in the Netherlands

• Valid passport
• Proof of degree completion from a Dutch university
• Valid residence permit (student or Orientation Year permit)
• Updated CV and cover letter
• Proof of financial means
• Proof of health insurance
• Job offer letter (for work permit conversion)

Job Vacancies in the Netherlands for International Students

The Netherlands has a strong job market with high demand for skilled graduates in IT, engineering, logistics, finance, fintech, data analytics, renewable energy, and life sciences. Major employers include ASML, Philips, Booking.com, Shell, ING, Heineken, and Unilever. The country has a low unemployment rate and many English-speaking workplaces, making it attractive for international graduates. Skilled professionals are especially valued in technology and innovation-driven industries.
 

How to Apply for the Netherlands Post-Study Work Visa (Orientation Year – Zoekjaar)

Step 1: Complete your bachelor’s or master’s degree from a recognized Dutch institution.

Step 2: Apply for the Orientation Year residence permit through the IND before your student permit expires.

Step 3: Submit required documents, including a degree certificate and proof of funds.

Step 4: Pay the application fee (around €210, subject to change).

Step 5: Receive the Orientation Year permit, allowing you to stay in the Netherlands for up to 12 months to find a job or start a business.
 

Best Job Search Sites in the Netherlands for Graduates

International graduates in the Netherlands can find job opportunities through online job portals, recruitment agencies, and company career pages. These platforms help graduates apply for entry-level and skilled roles, connect with employers, and understand salary and company details.
 

Job Search Platform	Description
LinkedIn	Widely used by recruiters in the Netherlands to post jobs and connect with candidates
Indeed.nl	One of the largest job portals in the country, with jobs across all industries
Glassdoor.nl	Lists job openings and provides company reviews and salary insights
IAmExpat Jobs	Focuses on jobs for English-speaking and international professionals
Undutchables.nl	A recruitment agency that helps international candidates find jobs in the Netherlands
Company Career Pages	Many Dutch employers hire directly through their official career websites

Netherlands Graduate Visa to Work Permit

Once you receive a full-time job offer, you can switch from the Orientation Year permit to a Highly Skilled Migrant (HSM) Residence Permit. This permit allows you to work long term in the Netherlands and provides a pathway to permanent residence after 5 years of continuous stay. Graduates hired during the Orientation Year benefit from lower salary thresholds, making it easier to secure employer sponsorship.
 

Willing to work in the Netherlands? Y-Axi, world’s number one immigration consultancy can help you with end-to-end guidance, from job search to visa support.