Civic integration obligation: who must integrate, deadline and fine
✍️ By the PassDutch editorial team · Last updated: 15 November 2026 · About PassDutch
If you come to live in the Netherlands from outside the EU, you often have a civic integration obligation (inburgeringsplicht). You will receive a letter from DUO.
Deadline
- You normally have 3 years to meet your obligation.
- In some situations you can get extra time, for example if you made a serious effort or are following a study programme.
Not finished in time?
- Then you can get a fine.
- After that you get a new period to pass the exam.
- Without a civic integration diploma, a stronger residence permit or naturalisation is usually not possible.
Exemption (vrijstelling and ontheffing)
- Vrijstelling: you do not have to take (part of) the exam, for example because you already have a Dutch diploma.
- Ontheffing: you do not have to take the exam, for example for a medical reason or because you can show you made a serious effort.
Parts
🏛️ KNM
Real exam: 40 questions in 45 minutes. 3 answers per question.
- Format: On the computer
- Duration: 45 minutes
- Cost: €50 per part
- Where: At a DUO exam location in the Netherlands
- Dictionary: Not allowed
How long does the real KNM exam take?
The real exam takes 45 minutes. Real exam: 40 questions in 45 minutes. 3 answers per question.
🧭 How PassDutch works
- Choose your language and your exam.
- Practise with questions, audio and videos in the style of the real exam.
- Read the explanation in your own language and see what you still need to practise.
❓ Frequently asked questions
Who does not have to integrate?
Among others EU citizens, people under 16 or above state pension age, and people who stay in the Netherlands temporarily.
Where can I find my deadline?
In Mijn Inburgering on the DUO website (inburgeren.nl).
Which exam do I need: A1 abroad or A2 in the Netherlands?
If you live abroad and need an mvv visa, you usually take the basic exam abroad (A1). If you live in the Netherlands, you take the civic integration exam (A2 or B1). Check your letter from DUO or Mijn Inburgering.
Are these official DUO exam questions?
No. PassDutch writes its own practice questions in the style of the real exam. You can also do the free official practice exams on the government websites listed below.
Is PassDutch free?
You can practise the first questions of every part for free. Full access to all questions and mock exams costs €9.95 for 30 days.
In which languages can I practise?
In 24 languages, including Arabic, Turkish, Ukrainian, Persian, Tigrinya and Somali.
📋 The exams at a glance
| Part | Format | Duration | Cost | Where |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🏛️ KNM | On the computer | 45 minutes | €50 per part | At a DUO exam location in the Netherlands |
Prices and rules can change. Always check the official source before you book.
🏛️ Official sources
- IND – Basisexamen inburgering in het buitenland
- Naar Nederland (DUO)
- Rijksoverheid – Inburgering in het land van herkomst
- DUO – Inburgeren.nl
- DUO – Practice exams / Oefenexamens
Checked by PassDutch in November 2026.
With videos, pronunciation and translation in your language.
Parts
Guides
- The Dutch civic integration exam explained: parts, level and registration
- Civic integration exam abroad (A1): parts, costs and MVV
- KNM exam: topics, format and tips
- Which Dutch exam do I need: A1, A2 or B1?
- How much does civic integration cost? Exam fees and loans
- Becoming Dutch: civic integration and naturalisation
- 10 tips to pass your Dutch civic integration exam