In short
- For naturalisation (becoming a Dutch citizen) you now need to have passed the civic integration exam at level A2 or higher; among other things, a State Exam NT2 diploma (Program I or II) exempts you.
- For a permanent residence permit you also need to have passed the civic integration exam at level A2 or higher, or have an exemption.
- The government wants to raise the language requirement for naturalisation to B1, and there is a bill to extend the waiting period from 5 to 10 years, but neither applies yet.
- For a naturalisation application, always check the IND website: it shows what applies at that moment.
Want to become a Dutch citizen (naturalise) or apply for a permanent residence permit? Then you must show that you know enough Dutch. This guide explains which requirement applies now, what has been announced and how to prepare smartly.
The current requirement: A2
For naturalisation you currently need to have passed the civic integration exam at level A2 or higher. That exam consists of Reading, Listening, Writing and Speaking (A2) and KNM, plus, depending on your situation, the ONA or MAP and the participation statement. People who are not obliged to integrate but take the diploma for naturalisation do not have to do the participation statement.
You are exempt, among other things, with:
- a State Exam NT2 diploma, Program I or II;
- a civic integration diploma (2013 or 2021 act) at level A2 or higher;
- a Dutch diploma from education in Dutch above primary school;
- at least 8 years of living in the Netherlands between the ages of 5 and 16.
Note: the Z route certificate alone is not enough for naturalisation.
For a permanent residence permit the same applies: the civic integration exam at level A2 or higher, or an exemption.
What has been announced?
- B1 instead of A2. The government wants to raise the language requirement for naturalisation to B1. This is in a draft decree, but it has not been introduced yet and no date is known.
- 10 years instead of 5. There is a bill to extend the waiting period for naturalisation from 5 to 10 years. That does not apply yet either.
We keep this page up to date. For your application, always check the IND website: it shows what applies at that moment.
What does this mean for you?
- Naturalising soon? Then A2 is enough for now. Practise all parts in the A2 course.
- Thinking further ahead? Then go for B1. A State Exam NT2 I diploma already counts for naturalisation, is also strong for work and education, and prepares you if the requirement goes up. See the B1 course.
- Not sure where you stand? Take the free level test or use the route finder.
You can find the exam fees on Costs and funding.