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Zoekjaar
Orientation Year for Graduates

A unique opportunity for recent graduates from top universities worldwide. Live and work freely in the Netherlands for one year while searching for your dream job in Europe's innovation hub.

1
Year Duration
TOP 200
University Graduates
FULL
Work Rights
3
Years After Graduation

Why Choose Zoekjaar?

The Orientation Year visa offers exceptional benefits for ambitious graduates.

Full Work Rights

Work any job without restrictions while searching. No work permit required during the orientation year.

Job Search Freedom

Explore opportunities across all industries. Network, interview, and find the perfect match for your career.

Easy Transition

Switch to Highly Skilled Migrant visa when you find employment. Seamless process without leaving NL.

EU Access

Travel freely in the Schengen area. Explore business opportunities across 26 European countries.

Startup Option

Can also use this year to explore starting your own business in the Netherlands' thriving ecosystem.

30% Ruling Eligible

Once employed, you may qualify for the 30% tax ruling benefit for highly skilled migrants.

Eligible Institutions

Graduates from top 200 universities in major rankings qualify for Zoekjaar.

Your university must be in the top 200 of Times Higher Education, QS World Rankings, or Shanghai ARWU within the last 3 years. Here are some eligible Indian institutions:

IIT Bombay

Indian Institute of Technology

QS Top 150
IIT Delhi

Indian Institute of Technology

QS Top 200
IIT Madras

Indian Institute of Technology

QS Top 250
IIT Kanpur

Indian Institute of Technology

QS Top 300
IISc Bangalore

Indian Institute of Science

QS Top 200
IIT Kharagpur

Indian Institute of Technology

QS Top 300
Delhi University

University of Delhi

Select Rankings
IIT Roorkee

Indian Institute of Technology

QS Top 400
JNU New Delhi

Jawaharlal Nehru University

Select Rankings

Eligibility Categories

Three main categories of applicants qualify for the Orientation Year visa.

Researchers & PhD

  • Conducted scientific research in Netherlands
  • PhD holders from Dutch universities
  • Apply within 3 years of completing research
  • Post-doctoral researchers eligible
  • Research must be at recognized institution

Dutch University Graduates

  • Graduated from any Dutch university
  • HBO (applied sciences) or WO degree
  • Apply within 3 years of graduation
  • No ranking requirement
  • Both Bachelor's and Master's eligible

General Requirements

  • Valid passport for duration of stay
  • Sufficient financial means (~€1,800/month)
  • Health insurance coverage
  • No criminal record
  • TB test certificate (for certain nationalities)

Required Documents

Documents needed for your Orientation Year visa application.

Degree Certificate

Original or certified copy of your degree from a top 200 university. Must be issued within the last 3 years.

University Ranking Proof

Evidence that your university was in the top 200 of THE, QS, or ARWU rankings when you graduated.

Financial Proof

Bank statements showing sufficient funds (approximately €13,000 for 12 months or €1,800/month income).

Valid Passport

Passport valid for at least 1 year beyond intended stay. Two recent passport-sized photographs.

Health Insurance

Proof of health insurance coverage for the Netherlands. Can arrange Dutch insurance upon arrival.

From Zoekjaar to Permanent Residence

Your journey from orientation year to establishing your career in the Netherlands.

1

Zoekjaar

1 year to search, work freely, and explore opportunities

2

Kennismigrant

Switch to HSM visa once you find skilled employment

3

Permanent Residence

After 5 years of legal residence, apply for PR

Ready for Your Orientation Year?

Our Netherlands immigration specialists will verify your university eligibility, guide your application, and help you maximize this career-launching opportunity.

Check Your Eligibility

Begin Your Global Journey Today

Ready to explore your immigration options? Our expert team in Vadodara is here to guide you every step of the way. Get a free eligibility assessment and take the first step towards your dream destination.

Get Free Assessment