Complete Guide: Taking the Dutch Civic Integration Exam in Turkey (2026)

Quick Facts: The Exam in Türkiye

• Exam Name: Basic Civic Integration Exam Abroad (A1 Level)

• Primary Location: Dutch Embassy in Ankara

• Cost: €150 (Paid directly to DUO)

• Result Validity: 1 year (used to apply for your MVV/TEV procedure)

7 Steps to Get Your MVV Exam in Ankara

Follow this step-by-step process to ensure your application goes smoothly.

1. Verify Your Requirement

Not everyone needs to take this exam. Before you start studying or paying fees, verify your status using the IND (Immigration and Naturalisation Service) guidance to see if you qualify for an exemption.

2. Start Your Preparation (A1 Level)

The exam consists of three parts. You must pass all three to receive your certificate:

• Speaking: Answering questions and completing sentences in Dutch.

• Reading: Understanding short texts, signs, and notices.

• Knowledge of Dutch Society (KNS): Answering questions about Dutch geography, history, and customs.

Resource Tip: While the official Naar Nederland pack is standard, many candidates find PolderPass more effective for targeted A1 practice, specifically for the exam format.

3. Register via DUO

Go to the DUO (Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs) website to register for the "Basic Civic Integration Exam Abroad."

4. Pay the Exam Fee

The total cost is €150. After you pay, DUO will send a payment confirmation email within approximately 5 working days. Save this email, because you cannot book an appointment without it.

5. Book Your Appointment in Ankara

Once you have your payment confirmation from DUO, you must book your slot directly with the embassy.

• Email: ank-inburgering@minbuza.nlAlways check for the latest contact details on the NetherlandsWorldwide website.

• Subject Line: Appointment Request - Civic Integration Exam

• Important: You must include your Candidate Number in this email.

6. Take the Exam

On the day of your exam in Ankara, bring the following checklist:

• A valid passport.

• Your appointment confirmation.

• Proof of legal stay/residence permit (if you are not a Turkish national but live in Türkiye).

• Note: Arrive early. Security checks at the embassy can take time.

7. Receive Your Results

DUO will email your results within 8 weeks. If you pass, you can immediately use the result to apply for your MVV residence permit.

What to Expect: The Exam Components

🗣️ Speaking (A1)

This is often the most nerve-wracking section. You will sit at a computer with a headset. You will hear prompts and must record your answers.

• The Challenge: It can feel unnatural to talk to a screen.

• The Fix: Practice with timed audio prompts to get used to the pressure.

📖 Reading (A1)

You will read short Dutch texts (emails, advertisements, street signs) and answer multiple-choice questions.

• The Challenge: While the grammar is simple (A1), the time limit can make vocabulary recognition difficult.

🌷 Knowledge of Dutch Society (KNS)

This section tests your knowledge of daily life in the Netherlands, from insurance and education to social norms.

• The Challenge: Questions are scenario-based. You need to know what to do in a specific Dutch social situation, not just translate words.

How to Pass: Tips for Busy Candidates

Most candidates are juggling work, family, and visa paperwork. Here is a realistic study schedule:

1. Consistency is Key: 15–30 minutes a day is better than a 4-hour cram session on Sunday.

2. Rotate Your Focus:

   • Day 1: Speaking prompts (record yourself and listen back).

   • Day 2: Reading comprehension (focus on key vocabulary).

   • Day 3: KNS picture scenarios.

3. Simulate the Exam: Once a week, do a full "mixed" session to build the stamina required for the real test.

Why Choose PolderPass for Preparation?

Official textbooks are great for grammar, but PolderPass is designed for the exam itself.

• Speaking: Practice with structured prompts that mimic the real test environment.

• Reading: Access short A1 texts designed to improve your speed.

• KNS: Train with realistic Q&A scenarios so you aren't surprised on exam day.