In 2021 and 2020 we are the best-rated law firm in the Netherlands in terms of client satisfaction.

In 2021 and 2020 we are the best-rated law firm in the Netherlands in terms of client satisfaction.

Students and graduates from outside of the EU

Students who have graduated in the Netherlands have several possibilities for extending their stay.

Since 2016, all holders of the search year permit are allowed to work without a work permit during the search year, also the holder of the permit that have graduated abroad. The validity of student visas expires shortly following graduation. In order to extend ones residence and avoid a gap in the residence period the process needs to be embarked upon in a timely fashion.

Search year

Students, following their studies in the Netherlands qualify for an extension on their stay, under the basis of a ‘search’ year (zoekjaar). This is an excellent opportunity for students to remain in the Netherlands and acquaint themselves further with the country.

During this ‘search’ year it is possible for students to work, without an employer having to be in possession of a work permit. Such a residence permit is granted for a maximum of one year. The income threshold for this category to qualify for a highly skilled migrant residence permit is € 2,631 gross per month (exclusive 8% holiday allowance), which is gross per annum € 34,097.76 (excluding 8% holiday allowance) gross per year, regardless of age. The permit can be requested immediately after graduation, of within three years after graduation.

Also foreigners that have worked as a scientific researcher in The Netherlands are eligbible for the search year permit.

There are also other possibilities for extending a students’ residence, either through employment, as an entrepreneur, or due to family reunification.

Search year for graduates of higher education outside the Netherlands

Foreign students can also apply for a residence permit if they are graduates of higher education. This option is principally available to students who have completed a Masters level programme, finished a post-doc of Phd. In this case they have to have graduated from one of the Universities ranked in the top 200 list of the most recent rankings of the Times Higher Education World University Rankings, the QS World University Rankings or the Shanghai Jiao Tong Ranking. The university needs to be in the top 200 list in the year of graduation. And the university must be listed on two of the three top 200 lists.

On this website of NL Netherlands 'the orientation year permit' you can check whether your education meets the conditions for a residence permit as a highly educated person (orientation search year residence permit).

During the validity period of the permit, holders of this permit can look for employment as a highly skilled migrant, or set up a business independently. In order to qualify for the highly skilled migrant residence permit, the gross monthly salary threshold is € 2,497 (exclusive 8% holiday allowance), which is gross annually € 29,964 (excluding 8% holiday allowance).

Such residence permits are granted for a maximum of one year and are not extendable. All holders of the search year permit are allowed to work without a work permit during the search year.

Foreigners can apply for such a residence permit up to three years after the date stated on their degree.

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Testimonials
Be in Good Company. Our clients appreciate our excellent and client-oriented service.
9.9
I would like to express my deepest appreciation and gratitude for the outstanding assistance provided by the immigration lawyers at Kroes Advocaten, specifically Edward. Throughout the entire processes, Edward was not only knowledgeable but...
10
Sophia
21 September 2023
Very personalized ,well thought service. We can communicate effectiviely and get reponsone immediately. We are very happy with the sinciere professionalism.
10
Tolga
21 September 2023
This is the second time I chose Kroes to deal with my case. As always, Kroes never let me down and always approached me with a timely manner and professional suggestion/solution. Just like my first case, the 2nd time also went quite smoothly...
10
JIA
20 September 2023
From the very first call, Sander Groen has treated my partner and me with respect and attention. He guided us through the whole permit application process and was always available to answer any questions. Just several months later, despite...
10
Artur
19 September 2023
Hulpvaardig, doortastend, integer, heel professioneel en kundig
10
Erika
15 September 2023
I strongly endorse Mr. Green's exceptional service in renewing my residency permit. His professionalism leaves nothing to be desired, and I highly recommend him to anyone seeking efficient and effective assistance.
10
Itaru
14 September 2023
Over the past years Kroes Advocaten arranged multiple residence/working permits for us. They have always been consistent: Excellent service, always available for questions and a very knowledgeable team!
10
Rakesh
8 September 2023
Kroes Advocaten, specifically Esther Wolthuis, provided superb service and support throughout my application for the appropriate legal documentation at IND. My case was not a "black and white" or straightforward one but after careful...
10
Rosanna
8 September 2023
I worked with Sheryl Goldberg on my EU Blue Card application. The thing that stood out to me was their flat pricing, which is extremely transparent and no hidden costs. From my first interaction with Sheryl, she clearly outlined the scope of...
10
Samayita
7 September 2023
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