When an ONA exemption may apply

Check whether ONA applies

Under the 2021 law, the municipality generally arranges MAP rather than ONA. ONA may still apply under the 2013 law or to some people integrating voluntarily. Some older start dates or qualifying Dutch education records can mean that ONA is not required. Check Mijn Inburgering and your DUO letter.

Common exemption routes

Your municipality reports successful completion of MAP. A work-based request may qualify if you were employed in the Netherlands for at least 48 hours in each of six months during the last year. Other routes can cover qualifying self-employment, full incapacity to work or full early retirement. Naturalisation applicants at state pension age may have a separate exemption.

Apply with the right evidence

For routes you must request yourself, submit the relevant form through Mijn Inburgering and attach the evidence DUO asks for, such as employment records or financial documents. Keep a copy and wait for a written decision. Continue planning for ONA until the exemption is confirmed.

Check payment and review rights

DUO does not normally refund an ONA fee already paid. The exemption removes ONA only; other integration requirements remain. If DUO refuses your request, read the decision carefully and note the objection deadline and method stated in the letter.