Becoming Dutch: civic integration and naturalisation
✍️ By the PassDutch editorial team · Last updated: 15 November 2026 · About PassDutch
Do you want to become a Dutch citizen or get a permanent residence permit? Then you usually need a civic integration diploma.
What proof?
- A civic integration diploma at least at A2 level, or
- a Staatsexamen NT2 diploma (B1 or B2).
How does the application work?
- You apply for naturalisation at your municipality.
- The IND decides whether you meet all requirements, such as how long you have lived in the Netherlands.
- You download your diploma digitally via Mijn Inburgering.
Note
- Politicians want to raise the language requirement for naturalisation to B1. Check the current rules with the IND before you apply.
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.
📖 Reading A2
Real exam: 25 questions in 65 minutes. Letters, leaflets and job ads.
- Format: On the computer
- Duration: 65 minutes
- Cost: €50 per part
- Where: At a DUO exam location in the Netherlands
- Dictionary: Van Dale NT2 paper dictionary allowed
How long does the real Reading A2 exam take?
The real exam takes 65 minutes. Real exam: 25 questions in 65 minutes. Letters, leaflets and job ads.
🧭 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
Do I automatically become Dutch when I pass?
No. Naturalisation is a separate application at the municipality.
Does a Z-route certificate count for naturalisation?
Not always. Naturalisation usually still requires an exam. Ask your municipality or the IND.
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 |
| 📖 Reading A2 | On the computer | 65 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
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
- Civic integration obligation: who must integrate, deadline and fine
- 10 tips to pass your Dutch civic integration exam