Dutch integration exam: Do you need language level A2 or B1?

To qualify for permanent residence or a Dutch passport, one key requirement is having lived in the Netherlands for at least five years with a valid residence permit. In addition, applicants must pass the civic integration exams. These exams consist of four language components and one exam on Dutch society and culture.

In recent years, there has been growing uncertainty among candidates about which language level is required to pass these exams. 

What is A2 level Dutch?

People with A2-level Dutch can understand simple sentences and commonly used expressions related to everyday situations, such as basic personal and family information, shopping, local geography, and work. They can communicate on simple, routine tasks involving familiar topics. They are able to describe their background, immediate surroundings and basic needs in straightforward terms.

What is B1 level Dutch?

People with B1-level Dutch can understand the main points of clear, standard language on familiar topics they regularly encounter at work, school, or during leisure time. They can handle most situations that may arise while travelling in a Dutch-speaking environment. They can produce simple, connected texts on familiar subjects or topics of personal interest, and can describe experiences, events, dreams, hopes and ambitions, as well as briefly explain opinions and plans.

The required language level for permanent residence and naturalisation

This year, the required level for permanent residence and naturalisation is A2. The Dutch Civic Integration Act 2021 does establish B1 as the general target level for mandatory integration candidates (recognised refugees and their family members).

As the government considers B1 the desired functional level of integration, it is not inconceivable that this level could also be raised to B1 for voluntary integration candidates in the future. 

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Something to consider

Although integrating into and participating in Dutch society is generally easier and more enjoyable with a B1 level of Dutch, it’s completely understandable if you want to make the process easier for yourself by applying for permanent residence or citizenship at the minimum A2 level.

It is widely expected that this will still be possible in 2026, so if you are eligible and planning to apply, it may be wise to do so before the end of 2026. If you have already passed your integration exam and still need to submit your application, your exam result will remain valid as long as the Dutch Civic Integration Act 2021 remains unchanged. 

How long does it take to reach the minimum language level? 

Some people can prepare for exams very quickly. Even complete beginners sometimes manage to prepare for and pass them within one to three months. While this is possible, it largely depends on how much time you can dedicate to studying, your aptitude for languages, and how comfortable you are with exams.

In general, three to four months is usually sufficient to prepare, but for a more relaxed and comfortable preparation period, it is recommended to allow five to six months. 

A few helpful exam preparation tips

Here are some helpful tips to get you started:

• Study reading and listening together, as they are assessed similarly and rely on overlapping skills. The same goes for the writing and speaking exams.
• For all language components, don’t hesitate to try and practice exam questions early on. You may be ready sooner than you expect, and understanding how you’ll be tested makes your study time more effective.
• For the Dutch culture exam, there are self-study platforms that allow you to watch videos covering all required topics, with accompanying practice questions, instead of working through the book.
• A recommended approach is to work from easier to more difficult skills, or from receptive to productive. In practice, this means first studying reading, then listening, writing, speaking, and finally Dutch cultural knowledge. Follow the same order in taking the exams.