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Wet 2021: 9 Key Changes Every Newcomer Must Know

If your integration duty started after Jan 1, 2022, you fall under the new law. Here are the 9 main differences, from the B1 language level to the role of the municipality.

July 12, 2025

The Dutch Civic Integration Act (Wet inburgering) was completely overhauled on January 1, 2022. If your official duty to integrate began on or after this date, the new 'Wet 2021' applies to you. This law shifts the focus from personal responsibility to municipal guidance. Here are the nine most important changes.

The 9 Key Changes in the 2021 Integration Act

  • 1. The Municipality Is in Charge: Unlike the old system, your local municipality (gemeente) now manages your integration process from start to finish.
  • 2. You Get a Personal Plan (PIP): After a 'broad intake' to assess your skills, the municipality creates a Personal Integration and Participation plan (PIP) with you.
  • 3. The Language Level is B1: The standard required language level has been raised from A2 to B1, a significantly higher proficiency.
  • 4. There Are Three Learning Routes: Your PIP will place you in one of three routes: the B1-Route (most common), the Education Route (for students), or the Self-Reliance Route (Z-Route).
  • 5. ONA is Replaced by MAP: The old ONA portfolio exam is gone. It's been replaced by the Module Labour Market and Participation (MAP), a more practical, hands-on module managed by the municipality.
  • 6. Costs Are Covered for Asylum Holders: For asylum status holders, the municipality pays for the required courses and two exam attempts per component.
  • 7. DUO Loans Still Exist for Others: Family migrants and other non-asylum migrants can still apply for a loan from DUO to cover their costs, which must be repaid.
  • 8. Stronger Focus on Participation: The new law aims to get newcomers into work, volunteering, or further education more quickly.
  • 9. A Faster Start: The entire process, starting with the intake, is designed to begin almost immediately after you register in your municipality.

How Do I Know Which Law Applies?

Check the date on your official letter from DUO. If your inburgeringsplicht (duty to integrate) started before January 1, 2022, the old rules apply. If it started on or after that date, these new rules are for you. You can also confirm this in the Mijn Inburgering portal.

Next Steps

Understanding which law applies is just the beginning. Whether you're on the B1-Route or need to reach A2 level, consistent practice is key to passing your exams. Start practicing with our exam simulations designed for both the 2013 and 2021 systems.

Official Sources

For detailed information about the Wet inburgering 2021, consult these official sources:

Source: DUO, Rijksoverheid, Wet inburgering 2021

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