What is the civic integration exam?
The civic integration exam (inburgeringsexamen) is an official exam showing you can speak, understand, read and write Dutch sufficiently, and that you have knowledge of Dutch society. The exam helps newcomers participate independently in Dutch society — at work, in education and in daily life.
The exam is administered by DUO (the Education Executive Agency). You can sit individual components separately at DUO, and a passed component remains valid for three years.
How do I know if I need to integrate?
Whether you are obliged to integrate depends on three factors: your nationality, your residence permit and your reason for staying in the Netherlands. The municipality and DUO play a central role in determining the integration obligation.
The fastest way to check: consult rijksoverheid.nl or contact the municipality where you are registered. DUO sends a letter as soon as you become obliged to integrate.
💡 Quick answer: Are you a citizen from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland with a non-temporary residence permit in the Netherlands? Then in most cases you are obliged to integrate. Exceptions apply to knowledge migrants, international students and people with grounds for exemption.
Who is obliged to take the civic integration exam?
Not everyone needs to take the exam. Whether you are obliged depends on your nationality, residence status and reason for being in the Netherlands.
Generally obliged:
- Partners of Dutch citizens (family reunification)
- Family migrants from outside the EU/EEA/Switzerland
- Status holders (refugees with a residence permit)
- Persons with a regular residence permit staying longer than 3 months
Generally not obliged:
- EU, EEA and Swiss citizens
- Knowledge migrants
- International students
- Those who have previously completed civic integration
- Holders of a Dutch mbo, hbo or university degree
Target groups: partners, family migrants, refugees & knowledge workers
Partners of Dutch citizens
Coming to the Netherlands for family reunification or to live with your Dutch partner? In most cases you are obliged to integrate. Depending on your situation you follow the B1 route or another suitable route.
Want to apply for Dutch citizenship later? You can in many cases apply for naturalisation after just 3 years of continuous cohabitation with your Dutch partner — including time spent married and living together abroad. In 2026 the language requirement for naturalisation is A2 (or a higher diploma such as State Exam NT2).
Family migrants
Family migrants from outside the EU living with a legal resident of the Netherlands are obliged to integrate. Depending on education and learning ability they follow the B1 route or the education route. The municipality plays a central role in assignment.
Status holders (refugees)
Status holders — also called permit holders — are people with refugee status or subsidiary protection. They are obliged to integrate under the Civic Integration Act 2021 and are actively guided by their municipality. The integration period starts when the residence permit is issued.
Knowledge migrants — exempt
Knowledge migrants are employees who come to the Netherlands through a recognised sponsor (employer) and meet a salary criterion. They generally do not fall under the Civic Integration Act 2021 and are therefore exempt (IND — knowledge migrants). Nevertheless, many knowledge migrants choose private lessons to integrate faster or to naturalise. According to the rules in force in 2026, A2 is still sufficient for many naturalisation applications — but future legislation may change this. Always verify your situation with the IND.
⚠️ Note: Whether you are obliged to integrate depends on your personal situation. Always check your own status at rijksoverheid.nl or consult the municipality.
Who is exempt from the civic integration exam?
- You have a Dutch mbo, hbo or university degree
- You have a recognised equivalent foreign degree
- You have previously fulfilled the integration obligation
- You are an EU, EEA or Swiss citizen
- You are a knowledge migrant
- You are an international student
- You are exempt due to demonstrable medical or psychological limitations
The Civic Integration Act 2021
Since 1 January 2022, the Civic Integration Act 2021 (Wi2021) has been in force. The key changes:
- The municipality is ultimately responsible for guiding integrators
- Integrators are assigned to one of three routes (B1 route, education route or Z route)
- There is a Personal Integration Budget (PIB) for courses
- The standard language level was raised to B1 (was A2)
- Status holders receive active guidance from the municipality
The three integration routes
B1 route
The standard route. Goal: reach B1 level and pass the State Exam NT2. Suitable for most integrators who want to work or study. Includes MAP (Module Labour Market and Participation).
Education route
For integrators with a high level of education. Goal: enter regular education or higher vocational education. Language level: minimum B1, often B2 or C1.
Z route (self-reliance route)
For integrators for whom B1 is demonstrably not achievable. Goal: self-reliance in daily life. Language level: A1 or A2.
Naturalisation route — parallel option
Not an official integration route, but a parallel choice. In 2026 you can naturalise with an A2 diploma — without needing B1. This runs through the IND, not the municipality. Note: the language requirement for naturalisation is expected to rise to B1. → See section Naturalisation and language requirement.
📘 Want to know which route suits you? Discuss it for free in a trial lesson.
Book free trial lesson →A2 vs. B1 — comparison table
| Component | A2 Naturalisation | B1 Integration (Wi2021) |
|---|---|---|
| Goal | Naturalisation to Dutch citizen | Fulfil integration obligation (B1 route) |
| Exam | Integration exam (DUO) or State Exam NT2 I | State Exam NT2 I or II |
| Reading | Simple texts: signs, letters, adverts | Longer, more complex texts: news articles, formal documents |
| Listening | Understanding short, clearly spoken dialogues | Understanding news, meetings, radio items |
| Speaking | Simple conversations on familiar topics | Fluent conversations, presentations, formal situations |
| Writing | Short messages, simple forms | Formal emails, reports, summaries |
| Grammar | Basic grammar: present tense, singular/plural | Complex grammar: subordinate clauses, passive, conditional |
| Vocabulary | ~1,000–2,000 words (daily use) | ~3,000–4,000 words (including professional register) |
| Average study time from zero | ~8–14 months | ~14–24 months |
| KNM required? | Yes | Yes |
| MAP required? (Wi2021) | No | Yes (B1 & Z route) |
| Methods at Dutch Together | Van Start, Opmaat | Inzicht, Vooruit (+ own material) |
Exam components
Reading
Understand texts at A2 or B1 level
Listening
Understand spoken Dutch
Speaking
Hold conversations and give answers
Writing
Produce texts at the required level
KNM
Knowledge of Dutch Society
MAP
Module Labour Market & Participation (B1 & Z route, replaces ONA under Wi2021)
Naturalisation and language requirement
Want to apply for Dutch citizenship? Different requirements apply than for the integration obligation. In 2026 the language requirement for naturalisation is still A2 level.
Key conditions for naturalisation in 2026:
- Minimum 5 years of uninterrupted lawful residence in the Netherlands (or 3 years with a Dutch partner)
- Language requirement: A2 level or higher — demonstrated via integration diploma or State Exam NT2
- Integration diploma or proof of exemption
- No criminal record (or limited record)
- In most cases, renouncement of current nationality
💡 Good news: According to the rules in force in 2026, A2 is still sufficient for many naturalisation applications — you do not need to reach B1. Future legislation may change this. Always verify your personal situation with the IND or DUO.
The "escape route": scaling down from B1 to A2
Many people ask whether you can complete the integration at a lower level if you are in the B1 route. That is possible in certain cases, but the rules are complex and depend strongly on your personal situation. The language requirement for naturalisation is also a separate process with its own conditions.
In 2026, an integration diploma at A2 level is in many cases still sufficient for naturalisation — but the government plans to raise this to B1. Both options have pros and cons. Have questions about what suits you best? Consult the IND or the municipality.
I am a partner of a Dutch citizen — when can I naturalise?
Partners of Dutch citizens benefit from more favourable rules. Here is what you need to know.
💡 Reduced waiting period: If you have been living together continuously for at least 3 years with the same Dutch partner (married, registered partnership or unmarried cohabitation), you can apply for naturalisation after 3 years — instead of the standard 5 years.
Conditions for naturalisation as partner of a Dutch citizen
- Minimum 3 years of continuous cohabitation with the same Dutch partner. If you are married or registered partners, time spent together abroad also counts in many cases. For unmarried partners, the 3 years must have been spent in the Netherlands. Source: IND
- Valid residence permit for a non-temporary purpose
- Integration diploma at minimum A2 level — or a recognised diploma granting exemption (such as State Exam NT2 Programme I or II)
- No criminal record
- In most cases, renouncement of current nationality (exceptions apply for married partners of Dutch citizens)
📌 Language requirement in 2026: According to the rules in force in 2026, A2 is still sufficient for many naturalisation applications. You do not need B1. A higher diploma — such as State Exam NT2 Programme I (B1) or Programme II (B2) — also qualifies. Future legislation may change this. Always verify your personal situation with the IND or DUO.
I am a knowledge migrant — can I also naturalise?
Knowledge migrants are employees who come to the Netherlands through a recognised sponsor (employer) and meet a salary criterion. They generally do not fall under the Civic Integration Act 2021 and are therefore exempt (IND — knowledge migrants). Nevertheless, many knowledge migrants choose private lessons to integrate faster or to naturalise. According to the rules in force in 2026, A2 is still sufficient for many naturalisation applications — but future legislation may change this. Always verify your situation with the IND.
How does naturalisation work for knowledge migrants?
- 5 years of uninterrupted lawful residence in the Netherlands (or 3 years with a Dutch partner)
- Integration diploma at minimum A2 level — even if you were not obliged to integrate
- Or proof of exemption from the integration requirement — possible via a recognised diploma
- No criminal record
For highly educated knowledge migrants, language is often the only missing piece. With targeted private lessons you reach the required level efficiently — without unnecessary detours.
🎓 Want to know what level you need for naturalisation? Discuss it in a free trial lesson.
Book free trial lesson →How do I prepare for the civic integration exam?
- Take a level test — to know where you stand. Use the free level test at Dutch Together.
- Choose a proven method — BOOM NT2 methods (Van Start, Opmaat, Inzicht, Vooruit) combined with own material.
- Practise all four skills — reading, listening, speaking and writing. Speaking takes the most time.
- Work with official practice exams — DUO provides official practice exams (see duo.nl). These are used during lessons.
- Practise KNM separately — use the KNM Practice Test.
- Plan regular lessons — consistency is key. Two lessons per week gives much better results than one.
- Speak Dutch as much as possible — outside lessons too. Read newspapers, watch Dutch TV, talk to neighbours or colleagues.
Teaching methods per level at Dutch Together
- A1 (Van Start, Opmaat): Present tense, basic grammar, simple conversations
- A2 (Van Start, Opmaat): Past tense, subordinate clauses, word order, separable verbs. Suitable for partners of Dutch citizens, family migrants and those aiming for B1.
- B1 (Inzicht, Vooruit): Past tense, present perfect, passive, conditional mood. Preparation for State Exam NT2 I or integration exam.
- B2 (Vooruit, De Finale): Formal communication, presentations, complex grammar. Preparation for work, study and State Exam NT2 II.
- C1 (own material, CNaVT, news articles, podcasts): Academic and professional language use at near-native level.
Frequently asked questions about the civic integration exam
What is the Dutch civic integration exam?
The civic integration exam (inburgeringsexamen) is an official exam showing you can speak, understand, read and write Dutch sufficiently, and that you have knowledge of Dutch society (KNM). It is compulsory for most newcomers from outside the EU who want to remain in the Netherlands.
Do I need A2 or B1 for the civic integration exam?
Under the Civic Integration Act 2021, the standard language level is B1. For naturalisation, according to the rules in force in 2026, A2 is still sufficient for many applications — future legislation may change this. The exact level depends on your situation and the route you follow (B1 route, education route or Z route). Always verify your personal situation with the IND or DUO.
Who is obliged to integrate in the Netherlands?
Partners of Dutch citizens, family migrants from outside the EU, status holders and others with a certain residence permit who are new to the Netherlands. EU, EEA and Swiss citizens, knowledge migrants and international students are generally exempt.
Who is exempt from the civic integration exam?
You are exempt if you have a Dutch mbo, hbo or university degree, a recognised equivalent foreign degree, have previously fulfilled the integration obligation, are an EU/EEA/Swiss citizen, or are a knowledge migrant. Exemption is also possible for demonstrable medical or psychological limitations.
How long do you have to complete civic integration?
Under the Civic Integration Act 2021 you generally have 3 years. In some situations — illness, pregnancy or special circumstances — the municipality can extend the deadline. Failure to comply can result in fines.
What are the components of the civic integration exam?
The exam consists of: Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing and KNM (Knowledge of Dutch Society). In the B1 route and Z route, MAP (Module Labour Market and Participation — replaces ONA under Wi2021) is also required.
Do partners of Dutch citizens need to integrate?
Yes. Partners of Dutch citizens from outside the EU who come to the Netherlands via family reunification are in most cases obliged to integrate. They generally follow the B1 route and are guided by the municipality.
Can I naturalise after 3 years as a partner of a Dutch citizen?
Yes. If you have been living together continuously for at least 3 years with the same Dutch partner — including time abroad for married couples — you can apply for naturalisation after 3 years instead of the standard 5 years. The language requirement in 2026 is A2.
Are knowledge migrants exempt from civic integration?
Yes. Knowledge migrants are in most cases exempt from the civic integration obligation. However, many choose private lessons to integrate faster or to naturalise. According to the rules in force in 2026, A2 is still sufficient for many naturalisation applications — future legislation may change this.
What is the State Exam NT2?
The State Exam NT2 is an official state exam for Dutch as a second language. There are two programmes: Programme I (B1/B2 level, daily life and work) and Programme II (B2/C1 level, higher education and professional settings). Passing the State Exam NT2 also fulfils the language requirement for integration.
What is the difference between the integration exam and State Exam NT2?
The integration exam demonstrates the legal integration obligation and includes KNM and MAP (Module Labour Market and Participation). The State Exam NT2 is a more demanding official state exam that also grants access to higher education. Passing the State Exam NT2 also satisfies the language requirement for integration.
What is KNM?
KNM stands for Kennis van de Nederlandse Maatschappij (Knowledge of Dutch Society). This component tests your knowledge of Dutch democracy, laws, rights and duties, education, healthcare, norms and values. Practise via the KNM Practice Test.
What is ONA?
ONA stands for Oriëntatie op de Nederlandse Arbeidsmarkt (Labour Market Orientation). This is a compulsory component of the B1 route. You learn how the Dutch labour market works and draw up a personal orientation plan. ONA is not a language test but a practical activity.
Can I retake a component if I fail?
Yes. If you fail one or more components, you can retake those specific components. You do not need to retake the entire exam. A passed component remains valid for three years.
How long does preparation for the civic integration exam take?
This depends strongly on your starting level and study intensity. On average, preparation takes 12 to 24 months for B1 (from zero). With two lessons per week you will notice progress within a few weeks.
Can I prepare for the civic integration exam online?
Preparation lessons can be followed fully online — as at Dutch Together. The official exam itself is taken at a recognised exam centre in the Netherlands. Practising at home via official DUO practice exams is strongly recommended.
What are the advantages of private lessons for the civic integration exam?
Private lessons are fully tailored to your level, learning pace and exam goals. You get more speaking time than in a group, direct feedback and personal attention — which significantly accelerates progress.
What is the B1 route and who is it for?
The B1 route is the standard integration route. The goal is to reach B1 level and pass State Exam NT2 I. It is suitable for those who want to work or study in the Netherlands. The municipality assigns you to a route based on a broad intake interview.
What is the language requirement for naturalisation in 2026?
In 2026 the language requirement for naturalisation is A2 level. A higher diploma — such as State Exam NT2 Programme I (B1) or Programme II (B2) — also qualifies. The government plans to raise this to B1, but this is not yet in force.
How can Dutch Together help with the civic integration exam?
Dutch Together offers personal one-on-one online lessons covering all exam components: reading, listening, speaking, writing and KNM. We use proven BOOM NT2 methods, official practice exams and past papers. Lessons are fully tailored to your level and exam date. Start with a free 20-minute trial lesson. Read more about the approach in My teaching method.
Why choose Dutch Together?
- Personal one-on-one online lessons — no large groups
- Lessons at your level, from A1 to C1
- Proven BOOM NT2 methods combined with own materials
- Maximum speaking time every lesson
- Preparation for the integration exam, KNM and State Exam NT2
- Official practice exams and past papers
- Homework corrected outside lessons — lesson time for speaking
- Personal support between lessons
- Flexible scheduling — lessons fit your agenda
More on Dutch Together
- 💑 Partner of a Dutch citizen — when can you naturalise?
- 💼 Knowledge migrant and naturalisation — what do you need?
- 📚 My teaching method — BOOM NT2 methods per level
- 🎯 KNM Practice Test
- 🏆 CNaVT EDUP C1 — for those wanting to demonstrate B2/C1 level
- 🏥 Medical Dutch — Dutch for healthcare professionals
- 📊 Staatsexamen NT2 Programme I vs II — what's the difference?
- 🇺🇳 What are the CEFR levels? A1 to C2 explained
- 💡 Learning Dutch as an expat — 7 tips that actually work
- ❤️ Learn Dutch as a partner of a Dutch citizen
- 🎓 Free level test — discover your CEFR level
- 📖 All articles and tips on learning Dutch
A real-world example
Thiago (name changed, real situation) is a Brazilian man who has lived in the Netherlands for over 5 years. He took private lessons, obtained his integration diploma at A2 level, and according to the rules in force in 2026, this is sufficient for his naturalisation application. He can soon submit his application and pick up his Dutch passport at the municipality.
His path in short: he started with little prior knowledge, took one lesson a week for over a year, practised all four language skills consistently, and completed his integration within the required deadline. This kind of trajectory — from zero to a passed integration exam — is something we regularly see with students who keep practising consistently.
Dutch Together · NT2 & Civic Integration
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