Upper Chamber (Dutch Parliament) Votes on Naturalization Test

DEN HAAG - Immigrants that apply for a permit to stay in Holland will have to sit a naturalization exam in their own country before they will be allowed into Holland. They will have to have a basic understanding of the language, and an understanding of Dutch society. Minister Verdonk of immigration has proposed this new measure.

The reason for this step is to make sure that the integration process goes more smoothly for the immigrants. The exam will test verbal language skills, as well as listening. They will also have to demonstrate knowledge of Dutch society, including geography, history, and politics.