Orientation Year Visa (Zoekjaar) - Dutch Graduates
Embassy required
- Maximum stay
- 365 days
- Processing time
- Up to 90 days
- Fee
- EUR 254
- Validity
- 1 year (non-renewable)
- Entry
- Multiple entry
Also available to PhD graduates and post-doctoral researchers who completed their research in the Netherlands or at a recognized institution abroad. The orientation year can only be used once. When transitioning to a highly skilled migrant visa after the orientation year, a reduced salary threshold of EUR 3,122/month applies (2026). Must apply within 3 years of graduation.
Eligibility
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Nationality
All non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who have completed a master's, post-doctoral, or doctoral programme.
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Age
Must apply within 3 years of graduation. No specific age limit.
Max age: 0; Min age: 0
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Purpose of visit
Must have completed a master's degree, PhD, or post-doctoral research at a Dutch institution or a top-200 ranked international university (Times Higher Education, QS, or Shanghai Academic rankings).
Documents you need
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Passport
Blank pages required: 2; Validity months: 12
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Proof of funds
Accepted forms: Bank statements, savings proof; Minimum amount: Sufficient means for orientation year
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Visa fee payment
Accepted methods: Bank transfer; Amount: EUR 254
How to apply
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Document gathering
Gather degree certificate/diploma, transcript, passport, and proof of financial means.
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Online application
Submit application online through the IND portal. If already in the Netherlands, apply directly. If abroad, apply through the Dutch embassy/consulate.
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Fee payment
Pay IND application fee of EUR 254.
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Processing wait
IND processes the application within 90 days.
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Visa collection
If applying from abroad, collect MVV sticker from Dutch embassy/consulate.
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Biometrics
Provide biometrics at IND desk in the Netherlands to collect residence permit card.