Short answer: if you want to come to the Netherlands to live with your partner or family, you take this exam first, in the country where you live now. It consists of three parts at A1 level, the lowest language level. You need it to apply for an MVV (provisional residence permit).
The three parts
- Knowledge of Dutch Society (KNS): questions about life in the Netherlands, based on a film and images.
- Speaking: you repeat sentences, give short answers and describe what you see.
- Reading: you read short texts aloud and answer simple questions.
You only pass once you have passed all three parts. If you fail one part, you retake only that part.
Where do you take the exam?
At a Dutch embassy or consulate, or at an external provider if your country works with one. On netherlandsworldwide.nl you can find per country where you can go and how to make an appointment. Expect to travel: not every country has several exam locations.
How to register
- Fill in the registration form for the basic exam at DUO.
- Pay the exam fee to DUO.
- Contact the Dutch representation in your country and make an appointment.
- Take the exam and wait for your result.
- If you passed, apply for the MVV and the residence permit together with your family member in the Netherlands.
What does it cost?
Expect around €150 for the whole exam, paid to DUO. If you have to retake a part, you pay for that part again. Rates change, so check the exact amount with DUO before you pay.
Who does not have to take it?
There are exemptions, for example based on your age, your nationality or a diploma you already have. There are also dispensations for special personal circumstances, such as your health or your level of education. Family members of someone with an asylum permit often fall under a separate arrangement. Which group you belong to is stated on ind.nl: check that before you pay, because it can easily save you an exam. Also read what still follows in the Netherlands in exemption and dispensation.
And after that? Then your integration really starts
The basic exam is an entry test, not an end point. Once you are in the Netherlands you usually become subject to the integration obligation and work towards a higher level. See the civic integration exam in the Netherlands for what awaits you there, which law will then apply to you, and how to register for those exams.
Start with Dutch before you leave
A1 is the beginning, but in the Netherlands it goes further. With Inburgerify you practise for free already, wherever you live.
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