In short
- For BIG registration with a foreign healthcare diploma you need Dutch at B1 for MBO-level professions, B2 for HBO-level professions and B2+ (above B2, below C1) for doctors, dentists and pharmacists.
- You obtain B1 with the State Exam NT2 Program I and B2 with Program II; B2+ can only be proven via a designated institution, such as a university language centre.
- The language certificate may be at most 2 years old when you submit it, and the BIG register also asks for an English certificate (reading), except for care assistants (verzorgende IG).
- The language test is only one part of the BIG procedure: there are also requirements for your diploma and professional knowledge, so check your profession on the BIG register website.
Do you have a healthcare diploma from abroad and want to work in the Netherlands in a profession with BIG registration? Then you must show that your Dutch is good enough. The level depends on your profession.
Which level for which profession?
| Professions | Language level | How do you prove it? |
|---|---|---|
| MBO-level professions, for example nurse (MBO) or certified carer (verzorgende IG) | B1 | With the State Exam NT2 Program I |
| HBO-level professions, for example physiotherapist, midwife, dietitian or occupational therapist | B2 | With the State Exam NT2 Program II |
| Doctor, dentist and pharmacist | B2+ (higher than B2, lower than C1) | Only via a designated institution, such as a university language centre |
Note:
- The language certificate may be at most 2 years old when you submit it.
- Besides Dutch, the BIG register also asks for a certificate in English (reading, for professional literature). This does not apply to care assistants (verzorgende IG).
- B1 and B2 must be obtained with the State Exam NT2.
- Still living abroad? Then a CNaVT certificate is sometimes also possible. Check the BIG register website for exactly which certificates are accepted.
- The language test is one part of the procedure. There are also requirements for your diploma and professional knowledge.
Why such a high level?
In healthcare you must understand patients well, explain clearly and report accurately. Professional language, everyday language and writing skills all come together. For doctors and pharmacists, the bar is therefore above B2.
How to go about it
- Check your profession on the BIG register website: which level and which certificates apply to you?
- Find out where you stand. Take the free level test and book a free intake.
- Build up to the required level. For B1 or B2 you work towards the State Exam NT2; see the exam dates.
- Refine your Dutch for B2+. In the C1–C2 private lessons you work one-to-one on presenting, writing and high-level conversations, with explanations in Farsi, Dari or English when it helps.
Read more about the State Exam in the State Exam NT2 guide.