Why Apply for a Netherlands Orientation Permit?

• Reside and look for employment opportunities for up to 12 months after graduation
• Work for any employer or work as a freelancer for a maximum of 1 year
• “NO” employer sponsorship & work permit needed
• Kick-start your own business without a separate entrepreneur or business visa
• Transition to a “Highly Skilled Migrant residence permit” upon receiving a job offer

What is a Residence permit for orientation year? 

The Netherlands Orientation Permit, or the (Zoekjaar visa), is a 12-month residence permit for highly educated non-EU/EEA graduates. Individuals who have recently graduated from a globally recognized university abroad or a Dutch university are eligible to apply for the Orientation permit. The permit grants you one year of residency in the Netherlands, allowing you to search for employment, start a business, work for a Dutch employer without sponsorship, or even work as a freelancer.

To be eligible for a Netherlands Orientation permit, one must have a valid degree or diploma from a recognized Dutch university or a university ranked among the world’s top 200 universities within the last three years. Upon receiving a valid job offer in the Netherlands, one can even qualify for a highly skilled migrant permit or a self-employed permit.
 

*Want to know more about the Netherlands Orientation permit? Sign up with Y-Axis to guide you with the process.
 

Benefits of the Orientation year visa in the Netherlands

The Netherlands Orientation Permits offer one-year residency to recent graduates, highly skilled and educated graduates, and researchers, allowing them to work in the country for any employer without sponsorship or a visa, start their own business, and gain work experience.

With a Netherlands Orientation permit, you can:

• Work for any Dutch employer in any field without having to apply for a separate work permit.
• Seek employment even without employer sponsorship.
• Take up either full-time employment, freelance work, or even start your own business.
• Get the flexibility to switch employers or jobs within the 12-month timeframe.
• Explore entrepreneurial opportunities to develop and set up a business in the Netherlands.
• Qualify for long-term residency in the Netherlands through the Highly Skilled Migrant Visa.

*Want to apply for a Netherlands Work Visa? Get in touch with experts at Y-Axis to guide you with the process. 

Eligibility Criteria for a Netherlands Orientation Permit

To be eligible for a Netherlands Orientation permit, you must meet the following criteria:

• Be a non-EU/EEA graduate or researcher.
• Complete a master’s degree programme, a doctoral programme or a post-master's programme at a designated foreign educational institution.
• Must apply for the Orientation year permit within 3 years of graduating from a degree or research program
• Have a valid research permit or residence permit (if applying as a researcher from within the Netherlands)

Requirements for a Netherlands Orientation Permit

The requirements for a Netherlands Orientation permit are as follows:

• An original and valid passport
• A fully-filled application form
• Proof of graduation (degree or diploma) or research work
• A degree or diploma from one of the top 200 globally recognized universities (for foreign education) or a Dutch university.
• Have a valid medical insurance.
• Submit evidence of sufficient financial stability and that you can support yourself in the country.
• Provisional residence permit (MVV) (When applying from outside the Netherlands)
• Antecedent certificate (Proof of no criminal record)
• Proof of valid residence permit (if you are applying from outside)

Steps to apply for the Netherlands Orientation Permit

Here’s how to apply for a Netherlands Orientation permit: 

Step 1: Check if you are eligible for the Orientation year permit

Step 2: If yes, arrange the required documents

Step 3: Fill out the application form and complete the fee payment

Step 4: Schedule an interview at the nearest Dutch embassy

Step 5: Attend the interview and submit the application with the requirements

Step 6: Await the visa decision

Note: You can also apply online through the official portal if you are applying from within the Netherlands.

Netherlands Orientation Permit Fees

The Netherlands Orientation Permit fee costs around €243. The fees must be paid at the time of application, and once paid, they cannot be refunded.

Netherlands Orientation Permit Processing time

The processing time for a Netherlands Orientation permit takes around 90 days. The processing time may vary depending on the total volume of applications, submission of incomplete applications, or if the officials require any additional documentation.

Can I extend my Netherlands Orientation Permit?

No, you cannot extend your Netherlands Orientation Permit as it is only valid for 12 months, and is non-extendable. In such cases, you can, however, apply for a new orientation year visa, provided you complete a new study program or a scientific research program. You can apply for a new Residence permit for the orientation year only after the first one expires.

Also, read...

What are the questions asked in a Netherlands Work Visa interview?

How Can Y-Axis help you?

The Y-Axis team is your trusted partner in making the Netherlands Orientation permit process smooth and stress-free.

• Check your eligibility and confirm whether you meet the requirements.
• Assist in gathering and organizing the documentation.
• Support with online application filing, ensuring all details are accurate and compliant.
• Review your documents thoroughly before submission to minimize errors or delays.
• Provide end-to-end updates and support until your visa outcome is finalized.