KNS (Kennis van de Nederlandse Samenleving) is the photo-based knowledge test inside the basisexamen inburgering, taken abroad before applying for a residence permit. This summary covers what KNS tests, the themes you should know, and how to prepare.
Download the PDF, then jump into interactive practice for grading and feedback.
KNS (Kennis van de Nederlandse Samenleving — Knowledge of Dutch Society) is the photo-based knowledge component of the basisexamen inburgering. You take it abroad at a Dutch embassy or consulate before applying for an MVV residence permit. Together with the reading and speaking parts, KNS proves you understand the basic facts and customs of life in the Netherlands.
KNS focuses on recognising normal Dutch behaviour, public services, and common situations — not on Dutch language. The questions are in your chosen exam language, but the photos and the situations come from Dutch everyday life. Themes you should know:
Work and income — finding a job, employment contracts, paying taxes.
Education — primary and secondary school, when school starts, what peuterspeelzaal and bso mean.
Health care — visiting a huisarts, hospitals, insurance, what to do in an emergency.
Customs and habits — birthdays, condolences, queueing, what people do on Sundays.
History — short overview of Dutch history, the monarchy, the Tweede Wereldoorlog.
Politics and government — what the gemeente does, voting, the role of the prime minister.
Geography — provinces, the role of water management, where the major cities are.
Housing — how renting works, social housing, huurtoeslag.
Public services — banks, the post, the police, the gemeente counter.
