The Philippines Guide: Dutch Civic Integration Exam in Manila (2026)

🇵🇭 Quick Facts: Manila Edition

• Official Exam Location:Embassy of the Netherlands in Manila (Makati City).

• Is there an exam center in Cebu? No. While there is an Honorary Consulate in Cebu, they do not administer this exam. You must travel to Manila.

• Cost: €150 (Paid online to DUO, not the embassy).

• Language Level: A1 (Beginner).

Step-by-Step: From Registration to Exam Day

1. Registration & Payment (The Digital Step)

Before you can book an appointment in Makati, you must deal with DUO (the Dutch education agency).

1. Register: Go to the DUO website and sign up for the "Basic Civic Integration Exam Abroad."

2. Pay: Transfer the €150 fee.

   • Tip: If your partner is already in the Netherlands, it is faster for them to pay via iDEAL. International bank transfers from Philippine banks can take several days to clear.

3. Wait for the Email: You will receive a payment confirmation. Save this PDF. You cannot book your slot without it.

2. Booking Your Slot in Manila

The embassy in Manila handles exam appointments via email. Check the latest contact information here!

• Subject Line: Civic Integration Exam Appointment - [Your Name]

• Required Info:

  • Full Name (as in passport)

  • Date of Birth

  • Candidate Number (from your DUO registration)

  • Telephone number

⚠️ Important: Appointment slots in Manila can fill up weeks in advance. Do not wait until the last minute.

3. Exam Day in Makati

• Location: BDO Equitable Tower (26th Floor), 8751 Paseo de Roxas, Makati City. (Check the latest contact information here)

• What to Bring:

  • Your valid Passport.

  • A printed copy of your appointment confirmation.

  • A valid ID (in addition to your passport, just in case building security requires it).

• Arrival: Arrive 30 minutes early. The BDO Tower has strict security protocols before you even reach the embassy floor.

The 3 Exam Parts (And Why Filipinos Do Well)

Filipino candidates often have a distinct advantage: a high proficiency in English. Since the exam instructions are available in multiple languages, you can navigate the interface easily. The challenge is the Dutch pronunciation.

1. Speaking (Spreekvaardigheid)

• The Task: You will wear a headset and answer simple questions.

• The Challenge: Dutch vowels (like ui, eu, ij) are very different from Tagalog or English vowels.

• Tip: Don't be shy. The computer needs to hear you clearly. Speak louder than you think is necessary.

2. Reading (Leesvaardigheid)

• The Task: Read short texts (emails, ads) and answer multiple-choice questions.

• The Advantage: The Latin alphabet is the same. Focus on recognizing keywords rather than translating every word.

3. KNS (Dutch Society)

• The Task: Answer questions about Dutch history and manners.

• The Trap: Some questions ask about "social norms" (e.g., Do you kiss someone on the cheek 3 times?). These can be quite different from Filipino "Mano po" or beso-beso culture.

The "Hidden" Step: The CFO Seminar

Note: This is not part of the Dutch exam, but it is critical for Filipino emigrants.

Once you pass your exam and receive your MVV visa, the Philippine government requires you to attend a Guidance and Counseling Program (GCP) at the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) before you can leave the country.

• Why mention this now? Because the CFO requires proof of your visa/application. Passing the Civic Integration Exam is the key that unlocks this entire process.

How to Prepare with PolderPass

Studying in the Philippines often means balancing a job, family duties, and slow internet connections. PolderPass is designed to be efficient.

• Mobile-Friendly: Study on your commute or during breaks.

• Exam Simulation: The exam computer in Makati looks exactly like our practice interface. You won't be confused by the buttons or the timer on the big day.

• Pronunciation Focus: Our audio tools help you master those difficult Dutch vowels that don't exist in Tagalog.