Basisexamen Inburgering Buitenland: A1 Exam Abroad, MVV, and Next Steps
Plain guide to the A1 exam abroad: who needs it, parts, registration, fees, results, exemptions and MVV timing.
- Author
- By Inburgering.org team (Editorial team)
- Reviewer
- Reviewed by Kirill Svavolia (Editorial review)
- Last updated
The basisexamen inburgering buitenland is the A1 civic integration exam that some MVV applicants must pass before applying to come to the Netherlands. It has 3 parts: Kennis van de Nederlandse Samenleving (KNS), reading and speaking. You register with DUO through Naar Nederland, take the exam at a Dutch embassy or consulate, and apply for the MVV within 1 year after passing all 3 parts.
Quick Answer: What Is the Basisexamen Abroad?
The basisexamen inburgering buitenland is a basic A1 exam for many people who need an MVV to live with a partner in the Netherlands or work as a public religious worker. As of May 2026, the full exam costs €150, each separate part costs €50, and DUO sends the result within 8 weeks.
Key Points
- The exam is before the MVV application, not after you arrive in the Netherlands.
- The 3 parts are KNS, Lezen and Spreken: knowledge of Dutch society, reading and speaking.
- You do the exam on a computer at a Dutch embassy, consulate or listed exam location abroad.
- A score of 6 or higher is enough for each part. You pass the full exam only when all 3 parts are passed.
- If you fail one part, you register and pay again only for that failed part.
- Passing the A1 exam abroad does not finish inburgering. After arrival, you may still need to integrate in the Netherlands.
Ready to Start Practicing?
Access thousands of practice questions with instant AI feedback
Start Practicing Now