Naturalisation · Dutch language requirement (IND): key facts (2026)

What does Dutch citizenship (naturalisation) require?

For people who want to become Dutch citizens through naturalisation: which language proof the IND accepts today (A2), and what is known about the planned move to B1. It is set by IND · DUO. Level: A2 (B1 planned)

Which exams prove the language and civic knowledge for Dutch citizenship (naturalisation)?

5 parts: Lezen (65 min), Luisteren (45 min), Schrijven (40 min), Spreken (35 min), KNM (45 min). About 230 minutes of exam time in total.

Source: inburgeren.nl · checked 2026-09-26

What is the fee for Dutch citizenship (naturalisation) in 2026?

2026 IND fee: €1,139 single, €1,454 with partner, €168 per co-naturalising minor child. Fees change every 1 January.

Source: ind.nl · checked 2026-09-26

Which language level is required for Dutch citizenship (naturalisation)?

Required level: A2: Article 5 of the Besluit naturalisatietoets still says "op het niveau A2". The version in force is dated 2022-05-26; no future version with B1 was found.

Source: wetten.overheid.nl · checked 2026-09-26

How long does the decision on Dutch citizenship (naturalisation) take?

Legal decision period: 12 months, which the IND may extend twice by 6 months. Nationality starts at the ceremony.

Source: ind.nl · checked 2026-09-26

Is there a separate test for Dutch citizenship (naturalisation), and what is changing?

No separate test: your integration diploma is the proof. Proposed, not in force: 10 instead of 5 years of residence and B1 instead of A2 (no start date).

Source: ind.nl · checked 2026-09-26

How do I apply for Dutch citizenship (naturalisation)?

Part of the citizenship application. No exam dates: you apply by appointment at your town hall; the IND decides. Requirements: usually 5 years of legal residence and a passed integration exam (A2 or higher). After approval you attend the naturalisation ceremony within 1 year.

Source: ind.nl · checked 2026-09-26

How long do applications for Dutch citizenship (naturalisation) take in practice?

No live average is published; the IND reports that in 2025 all naturalisation decisions were made within the legal period.

Source: ind.nl · checked 2026-09-26

Where do I apply for Dutch citizenship (naturalisation)?

Apply at the municipality where you are registered.

Source: ind.nl · checked 2026-09-26

Where can I practise for the language and civic tests for Dutch citizenship (naturalisation)?

On EUpassway: free practice questions with an explanation for every answer and timed mock exams in the exam format, no account needed: https://eupassway.com/en/oefenen — EUpassway is independent; the official sample exams of IND · DUO are linked in the exam guide: https://eupassway.com/en/guides/nl-naturalisation.