The Orientation Year in the Netherlands: A Launchpad for Non-EU Graduates

The Orientation Year in the Netherlands: A Launchpad for Non-EU Graduates

The Netherlands is renowned as an international hub for knowledge and innovation, welcoming talent worldwide. The Dutch government offers a unique opportunity for highly educated graduates from non-EU countries: the Orientation Year residence permit. This program lets graduates kickstart their careers in the Netherlands and gain valuable work experience. At BlueStone, we understand this transition's challenges and offer comprehensive support to help these talents thrive.

What is the Orientation Year?

The Orientation Year residence permit is designed for recent graduates from Dutch educational institutions or internationally recognized universities abroad. It allows them to stay in the Netherlands for up to 12 months while searching for a job as a highly skilled migrant. Highly skilled migrants are professionals with specialized knowledge and skills required for specific roles.

Requirements for the Orientation Year:

1. You must have obtained a master's or PhD degree from a Dutch university or a globally ranked institution within the last three years.

2. Once you secure a job, you must meet the salary threshold for highly skilled migrants.

3. During the Orientation Year, you can work without requiring a work permit, making it easier for employers to hire international talent.

Challenges for Orientation Year Students

While the program offers significant opportunities, it also comes with its challenges:

• Cultural adaptation: Adjusting to a new work environment and culture.

• Administrative hurdles: Navigating complex Dutch regulations regarding visas, work permits, and taxes.

• Networking: Finding employers willing to invest in international talent.

How BlueStone Supports Orientation Year Students

At BlueStone, we recognise these challenges and offer tailored services to help highly educated international talent integrate successfully into the Dutch job market.

1. Did the student find a job, but the company isn’t a recognised sponsor? BlueStone can act as a recognised sponsor.

2. IND Application for Highly Skilled Migrants. When a student secures a job, BlueStone assists with the IND application for a highly skilled migrant residence permit. We ensure all documents are correctly submitted and the process runs smoothly. Students can find status updates in the My BlueStone App.

3. Administrative Support. In addition to visa applications, we assist with practical matters such as insurance, tax registration, and payroll services. This removes a significant burden, allowing students to focus entirely on building their careers.

After your orientation year

When your orientation year ends, you must apply for a regular highly skilled migrant permit with a recognised sponsor as your Dutch employer. BlueStone has helped numerous highly educated graduates transition seamlessly to highly skilled migrant status with our employment solutions. Our goal is to reduce administrative burdens and ensure a smooth transition. By focusing on personal contact and in-depth knowledge of Dutch regulations, we stand out as a trusted partner for students and employers.

Would you be ready for the Next Step?

Are you an Orientation Year student in the Netherlands looking to boost your career prospects? Or are you an employer seeking to attract top international talent? Get in touch with us and discover how BlueStone can support you every step of the way. Together, we’ll build a future where your talent and expertise shine!

For more information about the Orientation Year program, visit the IND website.