An international report comparing the stay-rate of foreign students after graduation criticises the Netherlands for its legal barriers that deter businesses from hiring international students.

‘Small businesses seldom hire international students, partly because of the substantial processing fees collected by Dutch immigration authorities,’ the report by a German foundation on migration states.

As well as a one-off fee of €5,116, Dutch employers need to pay €870 euros for every international graduate whose work visa they seek to sponsor.

A Dutch survey in 2013 showed that 70% of international students wish to remain in the Netherlands after completing their studies, but a mere 27% actually do.

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