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Will my student visa be transferred to a work visa after graduation once I find an employer in Netherlands?

18 Aug 2026 · Answered by Honnappa Chandrannavar · 1 min read
Honnappa Chandrannavar
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No, your student visa does not automatically convert to a work visa after graduation in either the United States or the Netherlands.

- United States: After graduation, you can apply for Optional Practical Training (OPT) to work in your field for up to 12 months (or up to 36 months for STEM graduates). To stay longer, you need employer sponsorship for a work visa like the H-1B, which requires a separate application.
- Netherlands: You can apply for the Orientation Year (Zoekjaar) permit, allowing you to stay and work for up to one year while seeking employment. Once you secure a job, you must apply for a work residence permit, usually as a Highly Skilled Migrant, and your employer must meet specific criteria.

Visa rules and requirements are subject to change.

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