Which Dutch integration law applies to you?
The date your integration duty began is a key clue to the governing law. Confirm it in your official file, then check how that law shapes your route and tasks.
Find the applicable law
The 2013 system generally applies when the duty began before 1 January 2022. The 2021 system applies to duties that began from that date. Arrival date alone does not determine the law. Check the start date stated by DUO.
What changed in the 2021 system
The municipality conducts a broad intake, agrees a personal integration plan with you and selects one of three learning routes: B1, education or self-reliance. DUO sends the official start date after the plan is established. The municipality guides the programme, while DUO records the deadline and exams.
Understand how the systems differ
Under the 2013 law, people generally arrange their own course and follow the DUO exam requirements. Under the 2021 law, the plan records the route, exams and participation tasks; municipal support and language level vary by route. Fees, free-attempt rules and deadlines also differ.
Check your next step
Read the latest DUO letter and compare it with Mijn Inburgering. If the 2021 law applies, review your PIP with the municipality and ask about lessons, MAP and PVT. If the account shows a different law or date from a letter, ask DUO to clarify before booking exams.
Official information
Sources checked on 12 October 2026. Check the official page before booking or applying.