Integration

If you come to live in the Netherlands, it is important that you learn the Dutch language. It is also important that you learn how Dutch people live and work. We call this integration. Once you have passed the integration exam, you are considered integrated.

Integration Program Starting January 1, 2022

The new Integration Act took effect on January 1, 2022. As of that date, it is the municipality’s responsibility to help you integrate into Dutch society as quickly as possible. You will take language classes, find a job, or enroll in a training program. This new law helps newcomers quickly become part of Dutch society. For more information about these rules, visitwww.inburgeren.nl.

Please note: The new system applies to individuals who are required to complete the integration program after January 1, 2022. The letter from DUO specifies the date on which you must begin the integration program. This date determines which system applies to you. If you no longer have the letter, you can check“Mijn Inburgering” at www.inburgeren.nlto see when you must begin the integration program.

How does it work?

You are required to participate in the integration program if you:

have a residence permit
have a religious vocation (for example, minister, pastor, imam, or rabbi)
teaches religion or philosophy of life

You can also choose to participate in the integration program voluntarily. This means that you want to do it on your own, but it is not required.

Visit the IND website at to find out in which cases you are not required to take the integration exam.

What should I do?

You will receive a letter from the Education Executive Agency (DUO). The letter will state the date on which you must begin your integration program. If you no longer have the letter, you can check the start date of your integration program onMijn Inburgeringat.
You can study for the exam on your own, but most people take a course at a school. On the website www.zoekinburgerschool.nl, you’ll find a list of schools where you can do this.
You have 3 years to complete the integration process. This is the integration period.
If you are a refugee, or if your partner, parent, or child is a refugee, you will receive assistance from the municipality. The municipality will notify you of this.

Statement of Participation

If you began your integration program on or after October 1, 2017, and you are registered with the municipality, you must sign a participation declaration within one year. By doing so, you declare that you want to actively participate in Dutch society and that you respect what is important in the Netherlands. The participation declaration is different from the exam administered by DUO. The municipality will send you a letter explaining how the participation declaration works.

I live abroad

If you are still living abroad and have applied for a residence permit, you must take the basic integration exam in the country where you live. If you pass this exam, you may come to the Netherlands. Please contact the Dutch embassy for more information.

I don't want to take an exam

By completing the integration program, you can participate in Dutch society. For example, you’ll be able to pursue an education, and you’ll have a better chance of finding a job. That’s why it’s so important that you do this. If you don’t cooperate, you may also be fined. It could even affect your residence permit.

What do I need?

your identification and that of your partner, if applicable
proof of your residency status
Proof of your Social Security number and, if applicable, your partner's Social Security number
proof of your education and work history

How long does it take?

You will receive your exam results within 8 weeks.

Passed

Did you pass the integration exam?

DUO will then send your diploma to you by certified mail.

Failed

If you did not pass, you can take the exam again. You will then have to pay the fee again.