After completing my master's, can I work or settle in the country, or do I have to return to India in Netherlands?

Yes, after completing your master's in the Netherlands, you can stay and work in the country without returning to India immediately.

The Dutch government offers the Orientation Year (Zoekjaar) permit, which allows non-EU graduates to live and work in the Netherlands for up to one year after graduation. During this year, you can work for any employer without a separate work permit. You must apply within three years of finishing your master's.

If you secure a job as a highly skilled migrant during this period, you can switch to a longer-term residence permit under the Highly Skilled Migrant Scheme.

The Orientation Year permit is a valuable opportunity to gain work experience and explore longer-term options in the Netherlands.