Dutch Citizenship Test: Requirements 2026
Becoming a Dutch citizen means meeting the integration and language requirements. Here's what the citizenship test involves and how to prepare with confidence.
What the citizenship test involves
Dutch naturalisation requires passing the civic integration requirement — language exams plus knowledge of Dutch society — and meeting the residence and good-conduct conditions.
Citizenship requirements at a glance
What you must meet.
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Language | A2 minimum (B1 under the 2021 law) |
| Exams | Inburgering or NT2 — 4 skills + KNM |
| Residence | Usually 5 years on a valid permit |
| Conduct | No recent serious criminal record |
| Other | Often renouncing prior nationality (with exceptions) |
Your path to citizenship
Step by step.
Confirm your required level
Check your DUO/gemeente letter — A2 or B1.
Pass the language exams
Reading, listening, writing, speaking.
Pass KNM
Knowledge of Dutch society.
Meet residence & conduct
5 years, valid permit, clean record.
Apply for naturalisation
Submit to your gemeente with your results.
Prepare for your citizenship test
Dutch Daily covers all four language skills plus the vocabulary behind KNM — the foundation for naturalisation. Free to start.
Related guides
Frequently asked questions
What level of Dutch do I need for citizenship?
At least A2, rising to B1 under the 2021 law, proven via the inburgering exam or NT2 staatsexamen. Transitional rules protect some applicants at A2.
How long must I live in the Netherlands before applying?
Usually 5 years continuously on a valid residence permit, though some situations (such as marriage to a Dutch citizen) have different conditions.
Do I have to give up my original nationality?
Often yes, but there are significant exceptions (for example, certain spouses of Dutch nationals or where renunciation isn't possible). Check the current IND rules for your situation.