The Integration Act
Taking part in Dutch society is very important. For this reason the government has laid down the necessary agreements in an Act, the ‘Integration Act’. This Act determines that integration is compulsory for most people who come to live in the Netherlands. The Act states that you must learn to speak and understand the basics of Dutch language, and are familiar with aspects of the Dutch society.
Who must integrate?
The act applies to everyone between the age of 16 and 65 who:
- does not have a Dutch passport
- does not speak the Dutch language well
- does not know enough about the Dutch culture
In addition, integration can be compulsory for people who have lived in the Netherlands for some time.
How to integrate?
You can take an integration course with different organisations, which are in Wageningen:
- Nieuwland opleidingen: www.taalaktief.nl/, phone (0317) 421711
- Agens: www.agens.nl/, phone 0800-424 11 11
This course will prepare you for the integration exam. When you pass this exam you have met the requirements of the Integration Act. Most people pass their exam in 1,5 to 2 years time, however, it is not a problem if you need more time. You will not receive a permanent residence permit as long as you have not passed the exam.
Costs
The council will pay for the integration courses or the language courses for all integrators. However, it is very important to register for this reimbursement in time, otherwise you might have to pay the costs yourself. For more information or to register, please contact the integration advisor (0317) 49 24 50.
More information
Are you unable to speak Dutch? Do you have questions about learning Dutch? If so, ask a member of your family, friend, acquaintance or colleague to help you. Furthermore, you can contact the integration advisor, phone (0317) 49 24 50, or call a member of the Postbus 51 public information service staff, phone 0800 8051.
Also take a look at the campaign of Wageningen: 'It all starts with language'