Inburgering Fines: When, How Much, and How to Avoid Them
A guide to the DUO fine (boete) for not completing your integration on time. Learn about the process, the amounts, and what happens after you receive one.
Failing to meet your integration deadline can result in a fine ('boete') from DUO. While this can be stressful, understanding the process can help you manage the situation. This guide explains when fines are issued, how much they can be, and what your options are.
When Are Fines Issued?
You risk a fine if your 'inburgeringstermijn' (integration period) expires and you have not fulfilled all your requirements without having been granted an extension. DUO will first send a warning letter called a 'Vooraankondiging termijnoverschrijding' before issuing the actual fine.
How Much is the Fine?
The amount depends on which law applies to you and how much effort you have demonstrated.
- Not Finishing Your Learning Route: The maximum fine is €1,250 (2013 Act) or €1,000 (2021 Act). DUO will consider how many course hours you followed and how many exam attempts you made. The less effort shown, the higher the fine.
- Not Finishing PVT or MAP on time: If you fail to complete the Participation Declaration Trajectory (PVT) or the Module Labour Market and Participation (MAP) within the deadline, you can receive a separate fine of €340.
What Happens After You Get a Fine?
- You still have to integrate. The fine does not cancel your 'inburgeringsplicht'.
- You get more time. After receiving a fine, DUO will automatically grant you a new term of up to two years to complete your exams.
- Asylum status holders may lose their loan. If you are under the 2013 Act and received a loan as an asylum status holder, receiving a fine means you will have to pay the loan back.
How to Avoid a Fine
The best way to avoid a fine is to pass your exams on time. If you are facing delays for reasons beyond your control (like illness or family circumstances), you must apply for an extension before your deadline expires. Read our guide on requesting extra time for more information.
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