Inburgering – old or new system?

The biggest difference between the old and new inburgering system is who pays for your language course: under the old Wet Inburgering 2013, you took out a DUO loan yourself, while under the Wet Inburgering 2021, your municipality (gemeente) arranges and finances your integration course. Here’s what that means for you in practice.

What Is the Wet Inburgering?

If you are an immigrant to the Netherlands looking to learn Dutch and integrate into Dutch society, you have likely come across the Wet Inburgering, or Integration Act. It was first introduced in 2007 and has been updated several times since, with the current version being the Wet Inburgering 2021.

Key Differences Between the Old and New System

How the Courses Are Financed

Under the old system, inburgeraars (people required to integrate) applied for a DUO loan themselves to pay for language courses. Under the new system, the gemeente (municipality) is responsible for financing the integration process, including language courses.

How the Integration Process Is Structured

Under the old system, inburgeraars had more flexibility in choosing their own language courses and provider. Under the Wet Inburgering 2021, the municipality plays a much bigger role in guiding inburgeraars through the process and selecting approved courses and schools.

The Required Language Level

Under the Wet Inburgering 2021, inburgeraars are required to follow the B1 route, a more extensive and intensive language course than under the old system. The B1 route ensures inburgeraars reach a stronger command of Dutch and are better equipped to integrate into Dutch society – exams are now held at B1 level instead of A2.

Overall, while both systems aim to promote integration and language proficiency among immigrants, the Wet Inburgering 2021 places a greater emphasis on support and structure, ensuring inburgeraars get the resources they need to succeed. If you’re a new inburgeraar, it’s important to understand which system applies to you.

Get Started With an Inburgering Course at Dutch First

Looking for an inburgering course that matches the current requirements? Dutch First offers inburgering courses in Utrecht, including B1-route preparation, taught by experienced teachers who understand both the old and new systems. Sign up for an inburgering course today to stay on track with your integration requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions