What you need to know if you are moving to the Netherlands for love

So, you're planning to get married or enter a registered partnership with a Dutch citizen or permanent resident? That’s exciting! But before you pack your bags and dream of life in the Netherlands, there are a few important steps you need to take. If you're an EU citizen, the process looks very different and is much simpler, so this article is only for those from outside the EU.

Trust me, I’ve been through the process, and while it may seem overwhelming, it’s totally doable if you know what to expect. Let’s break it down step by step.

Step 1: The A1 exams - your first big hurdle

Before you can apply for a visa to join your partner, you need to pass the A1 level Dutch exams. In most situations, this is mandatory and consists of the following five sections:

• Writing
• Reading
• Listening
• Speaking
• KNS (Knowledge of Dutch Society)

Now, before you panic, this isn’t as hard as it sounds. The key is basic grammar and vocabulary. As a bonus, whatever you learn for the first four sections will also help you with KNS, since it’s all about understanding Dutch culture.

The A1 exams are held outside the Netherlands in a Dutch embassy. The appointment is usually booked through the embassy website in your chosen country. Sometimes a call also does the job. I did my exam in Berlin, and I was able to book my appointment via the phone.

In some cases, you do not need to take the Civic Integration Exam Abroad. Check IND's website to see if this applies to you. 

How long does it take?

After you take the exam, it takes about eight weeks to get the results. Once you pass, you’ll receive a diploma. You need to register this diploma at the Netherlands embassy and apply for an MVV (a provisional residence permit), which can take up to 90 days to process.

Step 2: Moving to the Netherlands with an MVV

Once your MVV is approved, you’re all set to move to the Netherlands and start your life with your partner. But there are some important steps you need to take immediately after arrival:

• Book an appointment at the IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service) as soon as possible to apply for your residence permit. It can take some time, so don’t delay.
• Once you have your residence permit, register with your gemeente (local municipality) to get your BSN (Citizen Service Number). This can take from 15 days to a month.
• If there’s a delay in receiving your residence permit, contact the IND and ask for a sticker in your passport that allows you to stay in the country legally.

Step 3: The inburgering process begins

If you’re married to a Dutch citizen, you are required to complete your inburgering (Dutch integration process) within three years of arrival (instead of the usual five years). Let me take you step-by-step:

• The gemeente will first conduct a leerbaarheidtoets (aptitude test) to assess your level.
• After eight weeks, they’ll inform you of the results and provide you with a PIP (Personal Integration Plan), which outlines the level of Dutch exams you need to complete.
• A contact person will be assigned to you to take you through this process.
• Once you sign the PIP, your three-year countdown begins.

Step 4: The inburgering exams

These are the required exams to pass your inburgering:

• Writing
• Reading
• Listening
• Speaking
• KNM (Knowledge of Dutch Society)
• PVT and MAP

Pro Tip: Start with the listening or reading exam - they are the easiest and will boost your confidence. Avoid jumping straight into KNM, as those questions can be tricky, and thinking like a Dutch person takes time!

Step 5: Getting your inburgering diploma.

Once you’ve passed all the exams, DUO will send your diploma by post to your home address. After you receive it, your consultant from the municipality will finalise your file and close it.

Bonus tip: Get your university certificates evaluated (IDW)

If you have educational qualifications from another country, you’ll need to get them recognised in the Netherlands. This is done through IDW (International Credential Evaluation), which can take up to 4 months. If you’re obliged to do inburgering, this service is free. Otherwise, it will cost you 150 euros.

Step 6: The final countdown to citizenship

Once you’ve completed all your requirements and three years have passed, you can apply for naturalisation and be on your way to being Dutch.

It might seem like a long road, but trust me - it’s absolutely possible. I’ve been through it, and I know exactly how challenging (but rewarding) it can be.

Stay focused, take it step-by-step, and before you know it, you’ll be settled in the Netherlands with your partner, building your future together. Good luck on your journey to becoming a Dutch citizen!