Integration and citizenship

Integration is important for migrants who want to settle in the Netherlands on a long-term or permanent basis. Integration measures deal with language, education, labour market and social guidance of migrants.

Most migrants from outside the European Union must first complete civic integration. This obligation applies to most residence permits. Civic integration means learning Dutch and getting to know Dutch society. For many migrants, prior to coming to the Netherlands, they must already take an integration exam in their country of origin. In extension to the civic integration process is integration by participation in Dutch society.

After residing in the Netherlands for five years, a person can obtain Dutch citizenship. This can be done through an option procedure (a short procedure for certain groups) or through naturalisation. Obtaining Dutch citizenship usually means that a migrant must give up his/her original nationality. Some migrants have no nationality; they are stateless. When statelessness is established, a more lenient procedure for obtaining Dutch citizenship applies.