Do you want to start a business or find a job in Europe? The Netherlands Job Seeker Visa allows you to stay in the Netherlands for one year to look for work or start your own business, even if you don’t have a job offer yet. This visa is open to people from countries outside the European Union (EU) and the European Economic Area (EEA).
The visa is called a “Residence Permit for the Orientation Year” and is designed for people with higher education who want to get enough time to find a job or start their business in the Netherlands.
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About the Netherlands Job Seeker Visa
Here’s the information in a table format:
| Country | Netherlands |
|---|---|
| Visa Name | Residence Permit for the Orientation Year |
| Who Can Apply | Open to all non-EU/EEA countries |
| Validity | 1 year (for searching work or starting a business) |
| Visa Cost | €210 |
| Processing Time | Approximately 90 days |
Eligibility Criteria for the Netherlands Job Seeker Visa
You can apply if you meet one of these conditions:
- You have recently graduated (in the last 3 years) from a university or higher education institution, and you were allowed to stay in the Netherlands during your studies.
- You completed a Master’s degree under the Erasmus Mundus Masters Course within the last 3 years.
- You completed any of the following study programs in the last 3 years:
- A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from a government-approved Dutch university.
- A one-year program for those who already have a Master’s degree.
- Other government-recognized study programs in the Netherlands.
What is a Designated Foreign Educational Institution?
You must have studied at a top-ranking foreign university (among the top 200 in at least two rankings). This is for students who completed their education outside of the Netherlands.
When to Apply
You must apply within 3 years of completing your studies (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD).
Required Documents
- Application Form (completed)
- Photo ID and valid passport
- Proof of health insurance and a TB test when you arrive in the Netherlands
- Degree Certificate from a recognized university
- Additional documents may be required depending on your situation
Steps to Apply for the Netherlands Job Seeker Visa
- Learn about the process: Visit the Netherlands Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) website.
- Choose your country: The application process may vary depending on where you live.
- Get the MVV (long-stay visa): If required, apply for an MVV (Type D Sticker) visa at the Dutch embassy.
- Prepare the required documents: Ensure you have all the necessary paperwork ready before applying.
- Submit your application: Apply for both the MVV visa and the residence permit at the Dutch embassy or consulate in your country.
- Pay the application fee: The fee is €210.
- Wait for the decision: It may take up to 90 days to get a decision on your application.
- Receive your decision: If your application is approved, you can proceed with your move.
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Cost of Living in the Netherlands
Here’s a quick look at some common living costs:
Grocery Costs:
| Grocery Item | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Apples (1kg) | €1.41 – €3.27 |
| Cheese (1kg) | €6.1 – €14.38 |
| Bread (500g) | €0.93 – €2.18 |
| Bananas (1kg) | €1.09 – €2.18 |
Restaurant Costs:
| Restaurant Item | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Imported Beer (0.33L) | €2.94 – €4.9 |
| Local Beer (0.5L) | €3.27 – €5.45 |
| Cappuccino | €2.18 – €3.27 |
| Meal for 2 (mid-range restaurant) | €43.57 – €76.24 |
Transportation Costs:
| Transportation Item | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Public Transport One-Way Ticket | €2.18 – €3.81 |
| Gasoline (1 liter) | €1.52 – €1.8 |
| Taxi (1km) | €2.12 – €2.72 |
Rent Costs:
| Rent Item | Price Range |
|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom in City Center | €653.49 – €1524.81 |
| 1 Bedroom Outside City | €490.12 – €1089.15 |
Leisure and Shopping Costs:
| Leisure/Shopping Item | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Summer Dress (Zara, H&M) | €27.23 – €54.46 |
| Cinema Ticket (one) | €9.8 – €13.61 |
Conclusion
The Netherlands Job Seeker Visa offers a great opportunity for people from outside the EU/EEA to come to the Netherlands for one year to look for work or start their business. If you meet the educational requirements and have all the necessary documents, the process is straightforward and provides a great chance to live and work in Europe.
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FAQs
Who can apply for the Netherlands Job Seeker Visa?
People who have completed a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from an approved university within the last 3 years and are not from an EU/EEA country.
What is the validity of the Netherlands Job Seeker Visa?
The visa is valid for 1 year, allowing individuals to search for work or start a business in the Netherlands.
