Services / Orientation Year Visa

The Orientation Year Visa – Expert Legal Support for Graduates of Dutch and Top-Ranked Universities Worldwide

The Dutch Orientation Year Visa (Zoekjaar) is a one-year residence permit for graduates of Dutch universities or globally ranked institutions, giving you the time and legal right to explore careers, launch a business, or lay the groundwork for long-term life in the Netherlands. Our lawyers assess your eligibility and manage your application from start to finish.

Book Your Consultation

24-hour response time • No obligation

English-speaking

Clear guidance end-to-end

Flat-fee pricing

No hidden surprises

Trusted by international graduates and expats

Proven experience with Dutch immigration procedures

Get In Touch With Us

After filling in the form, you will be contacted within 24 hours by e-mail.

Licensed in the Netherlands

24-hour response time

Multilingual team

End-to-end guidance

What is the Orientation Year Visa?

The Orientation Year Visa (zoekjaar permit) is a residence permit that allows recent graduates, whether from Dutch universities or qualifying institutions abroad, to stay in the Netherlands for up to one year. During this time, you can search for work, start a business, or explore professional opportunities in the Dutch market.

Our legal team helps you understand the requirements, prepare the correct documentation, and submit a strong application to the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND).

Orientation Year Visa Requirements

To qualify for the Orientation Year permit, you must generally meet the following criteria:
  • You have graduated from a recognised institution in the Netherlands or an international university ranked in the top 200 by the Times Higher Education, QS, or Shanghai rankings
  • You apply within three years of completing your studies
  • You provide the required identity documents, diplomas, and supporting evidence
  • You meet the conditions set by the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND)
  • You intend to use the year to find employment, work freely, or start a business in the Netherlands
  • You have no issues that could negatively affect your residence application under Dutch immigration law

Why Choose AZ Legal?

  • English-speaking immigration lawyers — clear communication, zero confusion
  • Flat-fee transparent pricing — no hidden costs
  • 24h response time — we respect your time
  • Trusted by students, graduates, and expats — proven experience with Dutch residence permit applications
  • One-stop-shop — visa, business setup, accounting, tax & compliance
Process Roadmap

Your Path to Staying in the Netherlands, Simplified

Our step-by-step approach helps you apply for the Orientation Year Visa with confidence and legal certainty.
1

Initial Consultation

We assess your background and explain whether you qualify for the Orientation Year Visa.

2

Document Preparation

We help you collect and prepare all required diplomas, identity documents, and supporting materials.
3

IND Application

We assist with submitting your Orientation Year Visa application to the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service.
4

Approval & Residency

Once approved, you receive your residence permit and can remain in the Netherlands to work, search for employment, or start a business.
5

Ongoing Legal Support

We remain available to help with next steps, whether that is transitioning to a new permit, exploring employment options, or planning for long-term residence in the Netherlands.

What Our Clients Say

AZ Legal Services B.V.

Bargelaan 200, 2333 CW Leiden, Netherlands

4.8
Contact AZ Legal

Get In Touch With Us

Clear first response

We will review your inquiry and guide you on the next steps.

Within 24 hours

You'll hear back by e-mail once you submit the form.

Confidential guidance

For businesses, individuals and expats in the Netherlands.

Start the Conversation

After filling in the form, you will be contacted within 24 hours by e-mail.