• Can I use my residence permit for the orientation year to look for a job in the Netherlands while living abroad?

    No. If you do not have and keep your main residence in the Netherlands during the [...]

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  • Can I work in other Schengen member states with a Dutch residence permit for the orientation year?

    No. A Dutch residence permit allows you to enter and exit the Netherlands and travel through [...]

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  • I found a job as a highly skilled migrant during the orientation year? Does my employer have to apply for a new residence permit for me immediately?

    No, that is not necessary. You have free access to the Dutch labour market during the [...]

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  • I have had a residence permit for paid employment or for working as a highly skilled migrant, immediately after I had graduated or performed scientific research. Am I still eligible to apply for the orientation year?

    Yes, that is possible. You can apply for the orientation year until 3 years after your [...]

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  • I already found a job as a highly skilled migrant without needing an orientation year first. Am I still eligible for the reduced salary criterion?

    Yes, you are. If you qualify for the orientation year, but you do not apply for [...]

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  • What are other benefits of the orientation year?

    You are granted free access to the Dutch labour market during the orientation year. This means [...]

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  • I have applied for the orientation year while residing legally in the Netherlands. How soon can I start working?

    If you want to start working soon, it is recommended that you apply for the [...]

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  • When does the orientation year start?

    You reside legally in the Netherlands, but you do not have a valid Dutch residence permit, [...]

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  • How much time do I have to apply for the orientation year after my graduation or after my scientific research in the Netherlands?

    You can apply for the orientation year until 3 years after your graduation date or the [...]

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  • Is my residence permit for study purposes still valid after my graduation in the Netherlands?

    When you graduate, your enrollment at your educational institution will be ended. How long your residence [...]

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  • How can I apply for the orientation year while I am abroad?

    Depending on your nationality, you may need a provisional residence permit (in Dutch: ‘machtiging tot [...]

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  • When should I apply for the orientation year permit? Should I wait for my final grades?

    You will need to send a copy of your diploma or a declaration from your university [...]

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  • Can I work during the orientation year? And can I apply for internships? Also, am I only allowed to work at companies that are recognised sponsors?

    You may work anywhere, and in any role, as long as you don’t claim any benefits [...]

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  • For how long is the orientation year permit valid?

    The permit is valid for one year. Within that year, you need to find employment as [...]

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  • What’s the orientation year about?

    The Netherlands attaches great importance to giving highly skilled migrants the opportunity and time they need [...]

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