Integration in the Netherlands
Are you new to the Netherlands? Typically, this means that you need to go through the integration process. A key aspect of this is learning the Dutch language. Additionally, you will need to understand the ins and outs of living and working in the Netherlands. Following this, you will usually need to take an exam. You have a period of three years to complete your integration, known as the integration period. You can always refer to Mijn Inburgering to see what steps you need to take and when your integration must begin.
Language Exam
In the exam, DUO (the Education Executive Agency) assesses whether you have sufficient knowledge about the Netherlands and the Dutch language. According to the integration law that came into effect on January 1, 2021, the required language proficiency level for successful integration is B1. Previously, level A2 was sufficient to pass the integration exam. You can also choose to take the B2 level language exam if you plan to pursue (further) education or attend any courses in the Netherlands. You can find detailed information about additional options during the integration process here.
The Inburgering language exam consists of the following parts:
- Speaking (Spreken;
- Listening (Luisteren);
- Writing (Schrijven);
- Reading (Lezen);
You can take all the language sections at once or separately at different times. To receive the integration diploma, you must successfully pass all parts. The language sections are considered successful if they are passed at a level no lower than B1.
1) Spreken – Speaking
You will take your Speaking exam at level B1 or B2 using a computer equipped with headphones and a microphone, which will be provided to you prior to the exam. During the exam, you will watch several short video clips that cover a range of topics. Following each clip, you will be required to answer questions and complete dialogues related to the content. The exam lasts about 35 minutes. It is scored on a scale of 10 points. You pass the exam if you score at least 6 points.
2) Luisteren – Listening
The listening exam at levels B1 or B2 lasts approximately 45 minutes. After watching short videos and listening to audio clips, you will need to answer questions related to the video and audio segments.
3) Lezen – Reading
During the exam, you will be provided with printed texts and questions (you are allowed to make notes, write down translations of words, highlight important segments of the text, and so on). You will need to read the texts and answer the questions based on them. You will fill out your selected answers on the computer. The exam lasts 110 minutes for level B1 and 100 minutes for level B2. During the reading exam, you are allowed to use a dictionary that you bring with you (before the exam starts, the examiner will check your dictionary for any notes or hints). Examiners do not provide dictionaries during the reading exam, so it is important to ensure you have a good dictionary to take with you. I recommend purchasing the Groot Nederlands-Russisch/Russisch-Nederlands Woordenboek by A.H. van den Baar.
4) Schrijven – Writing
The writing exam is conducted in written form. You will be given 2-3 tasks, such as writing an email to a colleague, filling out 2-3 job application forms, and completing sentences. The exam for levels B1 and B2 lasts 100 minutes. You can view examples of the exams and practice for all sections of the A2 level exam in speaking, reading, writing, and listening here.
In addition to the Dutch language exam, you also need to complete the following to you’re your integration complete:
- Participatieverklaring (PVK) - Participation statement
- Kennis van de Nederlandse Maatschappij (KNM) - Knowledge of Dutch Society
- Oriëntatie op de Nederlandse arbeidsmarkt (ONA) - Orientation on the Dutch labor market
1) Participatieverklaring (PVK).
Participatieverklaring (PVK) - is a mandatory requirement for everyone who wants to integrate into Dutch society starting from October 1, 2017. Participatieverklaring is a one-day seminar organized by the municipality (gemeente) where you live. The seminar covers various topics and aspects of life in the Netherlands. After the seminar, you sign a declaration confirming that you have attended it, thereby acknowledging that you understand and respect the rights, responsibilities, and fundamental values of Dutch society. You must complete this seminar and sign the declaration within one year of your registration in the Netherlands. More detailed information about the Participatieverklaring (PVK) can be found here.
2) Kennis van de Nederlandse Maatschappij (KNM).
During the KNM exam, you will watch a series of video clips and answer between 40 and 43 questions. These questions cover key topics such as work, healthcare, education, politics, and more, providing a comprehensive assessment of your understanding of Dutch society. The KNM exam lasts 45 minutes. You can view a sample exam on Dutch society here.
For effective preparation for the NT2 state exam
Are you planning to study or work in the Netherlands? Do you need to pass the Inburgering language exam to obtain Dutch citizenship? In my online classes, you will learn many new phrases and words commonly used in everyday life in the Netherlands. I offer lessons from A1 to B2 levels. You will practice speaking, listening, reading, and writing—in other words, everything needed to successfully prepare for and pass the NT2 state exam. You can sign up for a free 30-minute trial lesson by sending me a message
