Citizenship & integration in the Netherlands

Now that you're living in the Netherlands, you may be wanting to integrate into your local community. For some people, it may even be a requirement of your residence permit. Alternatively, you might be thinking about applying for Dutch citizenship. This page looks at ways you can integrate into Dutch society. 

Civic integration exam in the Netherlands (inburgeringsexamen)

Also known as the Dutch naturalisation test, the civic integration exam in the Netherlands is the way international citizens can prove that they have knowledge of the Dutch language and Dutch society. Depending on your circumstances, you might need to pass the civic integration exam to fulfil the requirements of your residence permit. Learn more about the civic integration exam in the Netherlands.

Dutch citizenship

If you have been living in the Netherlands for at least five years (or less, depending on your circumstances), you may be eligible to apply for Dutch citizenship by naturalisation. However, in most cases you will be required to give up your original nationality in order to gain Dutch citizenship. Learn about the requirements, how the Dutch citizenship application works, and the circumstances in which dual nationality is allowed. 

The Dutch passport

Once you are an official Dutch citizen, you can apply for a Dutch passport. The Dutch passport is regularly rated as one of the most powerful in the world, on the basis that it gives holders visa-free access to more than 190 countries around the world. Learn how to apply for one on our page on Dutch passports.