International Students in the Netherlands: A Guide to Immigration Law for Employers

The Netherlands has long been a sought-after destination for international students, drawing scholars from around the world. As the number of international students continues to grow, understanding Dutch immigration laws from an employer’s perspective is paramount. In this article, we’ll explore the basics of Dutch immigration regulations, as well as what employers must do to hire international students in accordance with these laws.

Increased number of international students

The IND reports a substantial surge in residence permit applications submitted by international students over the past years. In 2023, more students applied for a permit than ever before.This year, in the period 1 January 2023 to 1 August 2023, a total of 17,870 applications for a study residence permit were received. Last year in the same period there were 16,630 applications. An increase in the number of students by 1240 (7.4%). Most student applications come from China, India, United States, Turkey and Indonesia.To pursue studies in the Netherlands, international students are required to secure a residence permit. This process encompasses various steps, including obtaining admission to a recognized educational institution and demonstrating sufficient financial resources.

Established Immigration Law

Recognizing the importance of attracting and retaining international talent, the Dutch government has implemented a set of special immigration laws. Key features include:

• Part-Time work rights: International students are permitted to engage in part-time employment or internships while studying, offering opportunities to gain practical experience and supplement their finances.
• Orientation search year permit: Following their studies in the Netherlands, international students can apply for an orientation search year permit, granting them a year to explore employment opportunities, work for any employer without a work permitrequirement, or establish a business. This permit provides valuable time for students to transition into the workforce and contribute to the Dutch economy.
• Highly Skilled Migrant permit: The highly skilled migrant permit Scheme streamlines the hiring process for international students holding Dutch degrees. Employers that are recognized as sponsors by the IND benefit from simplified procedures for highly skilled migrants. A reduced salary criterion is applicable to recent graduates.

Employment Opportunities for International Students

Employers in the Netherlands increasingly recognize the value of international students in the workforce. To hire an international student, employers should follow these essential steps:

• Verify Residence Status: Prior to hiring an international student, employers must verify their residence status to ensure eligibility for work in the Netherlands. Typically, students with valid residence permits for study purposes can engage in part-time work during their studies or full-time during summer holidays.
• Work Permit: In most cases, international students require a separate work permit for part-time employment their studies. Internships are often allowed without a work permit, but strict conditions apply. It is essential to assess each student’s unique situation to see what is required.

Conclusion

The Netherlands maintains its appeal as a destination for international students. For employers in the Netherlands, hiring international students offers access to a diverse pool of talent and fresh perspectives. A comprehensive understanding of Dutch immigration laws is essential for both students and employers to ensure a seamless transition into the Dutch job market.