On 1 March 2016, Netherlands amended its orientation year policy for highly-educated persons, graduates of Dutch universities and people registered in Netherlands as scientific researchers.
Whereas previously the three groups could start an orientation year and obtain a 1-year residence permit within one year from graduating, this period has been extended to three years from graduation.
According to a press release (cf. Sources), "the new scheme gives those graduated in the Netherlands the opportunity to first return to their country of origin after having completed their studies, and to then come back again to the Netherlands" "to find a job or start their own business". During this time, a holder of the orientation year residence permit is free to work in the Netherlands without facing any restrictions (e.g. a work permit not required).
In order to be classified as a highly-educated person, the country requires a degree from a Top 200 university.
The amendment came into force on the day of its announcement.