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Netherlands Orientation Year Visa (Zoekjaar)
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Netherlands Orientation Year Visa (Zoekjaar)
The Netherlands offers a 12-month residence permit to international graduates from top foreign universities. Known as the Zoekjaar (Orientation Year), this visa allows you to live in the Netherlands and find a job or start a business without a sponsor.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Graduated in past 3 years
- Bachelor’s/Master’s/PhD from a top 200 university
- Degree must be equivalent to Dutch bachelor/master level
- No job offer required
- Financial means: Bank statement (~€1,300/month suggested)
- Health insurance coverage for your stay
Required Documents:
- Passport (valid)
- Degree certificate (apostilled if needed)
- Proof of university ranking (QS/Times/SJTU)
- Bank statement (recent)
- Health insurance coverage
- Application form (Zoekjaar and MVV)
- TB test declaration (if applicable)
Application Process:
- Prepare all documents
- Apply online through IND (Dutch Immigration)
- Pay fee (€228)
- Receive residence permit (in 4–6 weeks)
- Register with Dutch municipality upon arrival
Visa Processing Time:
Typically 15–30 days from the submission of a complete application. Some visas are granted in as fast as 2 weeks, but delays can occur if the immigration office requests additional documents or health checks. Plan your application accordingly.
Visa Validity & Stay Duration:
12 months from the date of approval; used to find a job or start a business.
How Sagar Visas Can Help:
- 🏫 University Verification: We confirm whether your university qualifies under the Top 200 rule.
- 📄 Document Assistance: We help you arrange apostilles, proof of ranking, and all required paperwork.
- 💰 Financial Guidance: We ensure your bank statement or funds meet the IND requirement.
- 📝 Application Submission: We assist with the online IND form, payment, and follow-up.
- 🧾 TB Test Guidance: If applicable, we help you prepare for TB test formalities after arrival.
- 👨💼 Post-Approval Support: Guidance on registering with the municipality, switching to employment visa after job offer, and Dutch job portals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals usually need a work permit (TWV) or a combined residence and work permit (GVVA) to work in the Netherlands.
It’s a special permit for individuals with job offers from recognised employers (sponsors) who satisfy income and qualification requirements. It allows faster processing and easier residence/work rights.
Yes. For highly skilled migrant permits, the employer must be recognised by the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).
The residence/work permit lasts typically for the duration of your employment contract (up to 5 years). You can apply to extend provided you still meet the criteria.
Get Your Free Visa Assessment Today!
Wondering if you’re eligible for a visa? Our Free Assessment Tool makes it easy! Simply answer a few quick questions, and our experts will evaluate your profile to guide you on the best immigration options.
- Quick & Easy Evaluation
- Expert Guidance Based on Your Profile
- No Obligation – 100% Free
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