After passing the exam abroad: organise your next steps

Save the result before you move on to the application

The result for the A1 exam abroad shows which of its three parts you passed. Download the PDF, keep another copy outside your email, and check that your name and exam details match your passport. If your sponsor or family member in the Netherlands will submit the residence application, send them the result document and confirm which other documents the IND requires.

Complete the residence application within the result window

After passing all three parts, the full result document starts a one-year period for submitting the MVV and residence-permit application. Use the issue date printed on the final PDF to calculate the period. The application usually combines the MVV and residence permit, and the sponsor often submits it, depending on the route. Passing the exam meets the exam condition only; the IND still assesses the other requirements.

If one or more parts are still outstanding

A passed part remains valid while you arrange another attempt for a failed part. Register and pay for the failed part again, then book the local appointment using the country-specific instructions. The one-year application period begins only after the complete exam is passed, not from your first attempt.

After approval and arrival

Follow the decision letter and embassy instructions for collecting your MVV and travel. After arrival, check whether you have a further integration duty in the Netherlands. If you do, the exam abroad does not finish that domestic process. DUO may send an integration letter after your citizen number, residence permit, and municipal registration are in place; the timing and letter sequence differ between the 2013 and 2021 laws.

Once you can access Mijn Inburgering, confirm the start date, required parts, and contact details. Under the 2021 law, speak with the municipality about the initial assessment and personal plan. Keep both IND and municipal documents together so you can follow each process separately.