Netherlands Orientation Year (Search Year Visa): Eligibility, Requirements, How to Apply

Completed your graduation from the Netherlands and want to stay back for some more years to explore opportunities, but wondering how? We have the answer for you: the Orientation Year Visa, also known as the 'Zoekjaar', a Dutch residence permit, which gives you the chance to explore opportunities.

Almost 26% of international graduates stay in the Netherlands 5 years after graduation to find work or opportunities.

So, what are you waiting for? Read on and get well-versed with the Netherlands Orientation Year and hop on ideas about what you can do in the Orientation Year in the Netherlands, how it works, and much more. 

How Does the Netherlands Orientation Year Visa Work? 

If you have recently finished your studies in the Netherlands and want to begin a career there, you can do so during the orientation year. Utilise the Orientation Year to work, explore, and prepare your next steps. Also, note these very important pointers:

• Apply within three years of graduating.
• Use the permit to work freely for twelve months.
• Register with your municipality and get your BSN.
• Stay insured throughout the year.
• Switch to another residence permit before your Zoekjaar ends.

Who is Eligible for the Netherlands Orientation Year Residence Permit? 

Netherlands orientation residence permit year eligibility includes: 

• Completed a Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD within the last 3 years from a Dutch higher education institution. 
• Top 200 universities worldwide (QS, THE, Shanghai rankings) in the year of graduation; program in English/Dutch.
• Conducted scientific research in the Netherlands under a valid residence permit (EU Directive 2016/801), without a prior orientation year.

Who is Not Eligible for the Netherlands Orientation Year Residence Permit? 

These do not meet the criteria of a Netherlands residence permit for an orientation year:

• Short courses
• Language programs
• Exchange semesters
• Non-accredited programs
• Degrees completed more than three years ago
• Degrees below bachelor’s level

 Also Read: Netherlands Work Visa for Indians 

How to Apply for the Netherlands Orientation Year Visa? 

To apply for the Netherlands Orientation Year residence permit, follow the following steps: 

Step 1: Complete Your Graduation 

You can only apply for the Netherlands’ orientation year after graduation (within 3 years). So, first complete your graduation, then apply to the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).

Step 2: Find a Method of Application 

If you are in the Netherlands, apply online via the IND website using your DigiD. If you are applying from abroad, apply for a Provisional Residence Permit (MVV) and the orientation permit together at the Dutch embassy or consulate in your country of residence. 

Step 3: Gather Documents and Apply 

Required documents include your diploma/statement and passport, and ensure foreign documents are translated (Dutch, English, French, or German) and legalised. Also, you'll need a temporary Dutch address. Pay the application fee when submitting (around EUR 210). Once the documents are sorted, apply the chosen method.

Step 4: Wait for the Decision 

The IND processes applications, with processing times around 2-4 weeks (though sometimes longer). Patiently wait for the decision. 

Also Read: Netherlands student visa requirements

What You Can Do in Your Netherlands Residence Permit for Orientation Year?

The Orientation Year (Zoekjaar) allows you to explore and gain hands-on experience in pursuits before opting for long-term residency; don't waste this time. Here are things you can do in the Netherlands during the Orientation Year.

Explore The Dutch Labour Market 

Now that you have full access to the Dutch labour market, you can work for any employer or freelance, or take short projects 

Opt for Internships and Volunteering 

If you are not able to find work, you can opt for internships and volunteer opportunities. 

Find Your Niche and Look for Entrepreneurship Opportunities

Many graduates use the orientation year to test ideas, build a portfolio, or try freelancing before switching to a long-term residence permit. You can also work around these ideas. 

Applying for the Netherlands Orientation Year (Zoekjaar)? Get Expert Help from GetGIS

Applying for the Orientation Year visa is a vital step for recent graduates seeking to job hunt, freelance, or launch ideas in the Netherlands amid strict eligibility requirements like top-200 universities and 3-year graduation limits. With IND scrutiny on documents, translations, and MVV requirements, precise preparation boosts success.

Seek trusted guidance from GetGIS. Uur specialists offer personalised support for eligibility checks, application submission, and seamless transitions to work or startup visas. 

Useful Links:

• Cost of Living in the Netherlands  
• Netherlands Education System and Grading System in the Universities 
• Best countries in Europe to Live and Work for Indians