Fijnder helps you participate in society. This is called integration.
Integration is mandatory for everyone who:
- 18 years or older (up to AOW age)
- has a temporary residence permit
- comes to live in the Netherlands for a longer period of time
Did you already have a residence permit before January 1, 2022? Then different rules apply. See www.inburgeren.nl for more information.
How does integration work?
You'll first receive a letter stating that you must integrate. You have three years to complete the process.
This is how it works:
1. Conversation with a consultant
You are talking to a consultant from Fijnder about your situation and wishes.
After this interview you will receive a letter with the start date of your integration.
2. Personal plan
Together with your consultant you will create a personal Integration and Participation Plan.
It contains:
- your personal goals
- the agreements you make
- which learning route you follow
Learning routes
- You learn Dutch at B1 level.
- You take exams in reading, listening, writing, speaking and Knowledge of Dutch Society (KNM).
- For young newcomers.
- You will learn Dutch at least B1 level.
- You follow a language transition course and then flows into secondary vocational education, higher professional education or university.
- After this route you can successfully complete a Dutch education.
- For people who have difficulty learning Dutch.
- You learn the language up to at least A1 level.
- You will learn how to participate independently in society.
Language and participation in the Netherlands
In the Netherlands, financial matters are often different than you are used to.
That is why you will receive training on:
- what you have to pay
- how to keep track of your income and expenses
This is how you stay financially healthy.
You follow the participation declaration process.
There you will learn about Dutch norms and values.
Are you ready? Then sign the declaration. Your municipality will invite you to do so.
You will learn which skills you need to work in the Netherlands.
You do this via the Labor Market and Participation Module (MAP).
Are you following the educational route? Then you don't need to take this module.
Are you unable to integrate?
Sometimes you cannot integrate due to circumstances, for example due to a medical disability.
Then you can exemption from the integration requirement apply via Argonaut.
Having trouble? We're happy to help.
Request an exemption
In some cases you can exemption receiving (part of) the integration requirement. For example, if:
- you have lived in the Netherlands for at least 8 years and were subject to compulsory education
- you have a diploma or certificate that proves your knowledge of language and society
- you are currently subject to compulsory education or qualification requirements
- you are following a course that leads to a recognized diploma or certificate
- you have lived in the Netherlands for at least 10 years and have done 5 years of volunteer or paid work, and have passed a language test at B1 level.
You are responsible for yourself applying for an exemption from the integration requirement at DUODUO decides whether you are granted an exemption.
Summary
- You have 3 years to integrate.
- You will create a personal plan together with your consultant.
- There are 3 learning routes: B1 route, Education route and Z route.
- You will also learn about money, participating and working.
- Sometimes you can get an exemption or waiver.