Wi 2013 or Wi 2021?
The rules depend on when your civic integration obligation started.
| Wi 2013 | Wi 2021 | |
|---|---|---|
| Obligation started | Before 1 January 2022 | On or after 1 January 2022 |
| Language level | A2 | B1 – with other routes for some |
| Exams | Reading, listening, writing, speaking, KNM, ONA | Reading, listening, writing, speaking, KNM |
| Support | You arrange it yourself | Your municipality helps with a plan |
| Deadline | Usually 3 years | Usually 3 years |
The parts of the civic integration exam
Reading
Texts from daily life – letters, signs and forms.
Listening
Conversations and messages in Dutch.
Writing
Short texts such as a message or a form.
Speaking
Answer questions and talk about daily situations.
Dutch society
KNM: work, health, education, history and rules.
Labour market
ONA – only if your obligation started before 2022.
What the exams cost
DUO fees
Check your own fees and deadline in Mijn Inburgering on inburgeren.nl.
From letter to diploma
Letter from DUO
You receive a letter that you must integrate – with your deadline.
Plan
Under Wi 2021 the municipality makes a plan with you.
Course
You learn Dutch at a school or on your own.
Exams
You book each exam yourself on inburgeren.nl.
Diploma
Passed all parts? You receive the civic integration diploma.
Questions about the exams
Can I integrate voluntarily?
Yes. Many people take the exams voluntarily – for example for permanent residence or naturalisation.
How many times can I retake an exam?
You can retake failed parts – each retake must be paid again, with some exceptions for asylum status holders.
What happens if I miss the deadline?
DUO can impose a fine. Ask for an extension in time if you have a good reason.
Where civic integration matters
Partner visa
Live together in the Netherlands – the exam abroad is often the first step.
partner-visa.nl Open website FamilyFamily reunification
Bring your children and family members to the Netherlands.
family-visa.nl Open website StayPermanent residence
Five years in? Permanent residence or EU long-term resident status.
eu-permanent.nl Open website CitizenshipDutch citizenship
Naturalisation or the option procedure – to your Dutch passport.
dutch-citizenship.nl Open websiteInformation valid for 2026, based on ind.nl, inburgeren.nl (DUO), naarnederland.nl and netherlandsworldwide.nl. Rules and fees can change – always check the latest information with us or on the official websites.