Staying on after study in Europe

In Germany, as of 2026-09, the Residence Act sets the student work limits. Students can work up to 140 full days a year, or the equivalent in half days, plus student jobs at the university. After graduating, you can get a residence permit of up to 18 months to look for work related to your degree.

This is Germany's post-study work option. Other European countries have their own job search permits with different lengths, such as the Orientation Year in the Netherlands. Learning the local language greatly improves your chances outside international companies. The EU Blue Card is a common route for graduates whose job pays a qualifying salary.