Schengen visa question: Integration of a Thai in the Netherlands after approval of the MVV visa
December 19 2024
Dear Rob,
I would like to know more about the integration of a Thai in the Netherlands after approval of the MVV visa. You can't find it on the internet. One says this, the other says that.
The first thing I would like to know is the route to integration. The basic course in Bangkok is supposed to be level a1. Nowadays they require level b1 for integration. This is quite a tough level. Is it wise/necessary to do a2 first or a combination of a2/b1? Is that best done at home, online or in class?
There are also many opinions about the offer.
Hope someone has some useful information.
We are leaving for the Netherlands on January 16th.
Greetings from Koh Chang,
Martin
Dear Martin,
The exam abroad, at the embassy in Bangkok, is a requirement of the TEV procedure (of which the MVV entry visa is a part). This civic integration exam abroad is at A1 level.
After entering on the MVV, the Thai partner must register with the Dutch municipality (and then obtain a BSN number) and will also receive a message from the IND about when the VVR residence permit (card) can be collected from the IND. Do not forget to take out health insurance.
After that, DUO (Dienst Uitvoering Onderwijs) will send a letter about the integration obligation. The municipality will also make contact to have an intake interview. This is to determine which integration path suits the immigrant best. That can be the path for Dutch at B1 level, which is not low but also not very high, most Dutch people understand this level of Dutch.
The Dutch language (grammar) is not that easy, so those who have had limited education in their own country or are simply not cut out for diving into books, can do the Z-route. That is more practice-oriented and the language level is closer to that of the exam at the embassy: A1.
For more information, see:
Which route, which level suits your situation, you can of course only determine in consultation with the municipality or a teacher. It is possible that you do not agree with what the municipality proposes and prefer to go your own way. That is possible. The most important requirement is that you successfully complete the exams for the set level/route. You can also choose a school yourself or do self-study. As a rule of thumb, you can assume that classroom learning with a good teacher in a small class is the best. From level A1, then A2 to B1 and possibly higher.
You can of course read up on the subject and get advice here and there, see for example:
Personally, I was very pleased with Ad Appel from Heemstede for (self) study, training and practice materials for both integration abroad and integration in the Netherlands. Just Google "Ad Appel integration". But again: which path to take is ultimately up to you.
Yours faithfully,
Rob V
NB The law on integration has changed a few times over the years, so be careful with well-meaning advice and experiences from people who have been here for a few years. Integration at A2 level, for example, does not apply to those who come to the Netherlands now.