Am I required to integrate (inburgeren)?
People with an EU, EEA or Swiss nationality are often exempt. People from outside the EU/EEA often have an integration obligation, unless they are under 18, above pension age, or hold a temporary visa such as a highly skilled migrant or student visa. Whether that applies to you depends on your situation. Check Mijn Inburgering or ask DUO.
What is the difference between A2 and B1 requirements?
If your obligation started before 2022, you fall under the Wet inburgering 2013. You take the language exams at A2 or higher, plus knowledge exams. If it started in 2022 or later, your gemeente sets a personal route. Some routes aim at B1, and an education route can aim at B1 or B2. The Z-route does not require language exams. Mijn Inburgering shows which exams belong to your route.
Can I downscale my B1 requirement to A2?
If you are on the B1 route, ask your gemeente whether you can take the exams at A2 after at least 600 hours of language classes and a sustained effort. Only the gemeente decides. Check Mijn Inburgering.
Do highly skilled migrants have to pass exams?
Highly skilled migrants are often exempt from the mandatory integration obligation. For a permanent residence permit or Dutch nationality, you may still need an inburgeringsdiploma or exams. Which exams apply depends on your situation. Ask your gemeente and check Mijn Inburgering.