Orientation Year Residence Permit
Netherlands
Last updated: December 26, 2025
12 months
$254
2-3 weeks
Low
About this Visa
This visa lets recent graduates find a job in the Netherlands. You just finished a university degree? This permit gives you one year to search for work, start a business, or figure out your next steps. No employer needs to hire you first—you apply on your own. The visa is for people who graduated from a Dutch university OR from a top-ranked foreign university. It's one of the easiest work visas in Europe because you don't need a job offer before applying.
Key Benefits
- Work anywhere in any job without a work permit
- Start your own business
- Bring spouse and children
- Full healthcare access
- Travel freely in Europe
- Lower salary requirements if you find a job during this year
- Counts toward permanent residency
Eligibility & Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
- Finished bachelor's degree or higher within last 3 years
- Degree from Dutch university OR top 200 globally ranked university
- English language test (IELTS 6.0+) if degree outside Netherlands
- Valid passport for at least 6 more months
- No criminal record
Financial Requirement
None. You don't need to prove you have money or a job waiting.
Documents
- Valid passportMust be valid for at least 6 more months
- Diploma or proof of completionCopy of your degree certificate or completion statement
- TB test agreementDeclaration that you will take TB test within 3 months
- Application formCompleted and signed IND application form
- Credential evaluation (Nuffic)Required if degree from outside Netherlands. Proof university is top 200 ranked
- English language testIELTS 6.0 or higher if degree from outside Netherlands
Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.