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.

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.

Need assistance?

Sarah can help you

Testimonials
Be in Good Company. Our clients appreciate our excellent and client-oriented service.
9.9
It takes a lot of stress away to work with an experienced and approachable lawyer like Sheryl.
10
Aroen
20 March 2023
I recently had the pleasure of working with Edward Van Kempen from Kroes Advocaten. From the first moment of our consultation, I could tell that Edward was truly dedicated to helping me with my matter. Thanks to the Edward’s hard work and…
10
Marlene
20 March 2023
This is the second time I have relied on the excellent guidance of Kroes Advocaten and I am again very satisfied - I will not hesitate to reach out to them in the future if needed. I highly recommend them for their professionalism, experience,…
10
Fabiano
20 March 2023
The advice and support we received for our migration administrative process really made a difference. The lawyer who followed our file showed a lot of availability to answer our doubts and questions. We felt supported throughout the different…
10
justine dupuy
19 March 2023
Quick response, very professional advice, deep understanding of a customer's needs
10
Serge
16 March 2023
A highly professional approach and not typical fast response time to customer inquiries. We have been working with this company for several years and have always had a positive experience.
10
Anna
16 March 2023
Jelle has been great in providing the answer to my query. He replies within few hours after I contacted him, definitely if you need help reach out to Jelle and he will support you!
10
Angela
14 March 2023
Inge helped me twice so far for the visa extension and the process was smooth.
10
Soyun Park
10 March 2023
Working with Inge was a pleasure, and she really pursed my case for citizenship with real diligence and tenacity, ensuring that all possible avenues were explored. She took the lead on communication with the relevant authorities, which was very…
10
Waleed
9 March 2023
Do you have a question about your search year permit?

We handle your data with discretion.

Do you have a question about your search year permit?

Prefer a telephone answer?

Open contact form Contact form