Would-be immigrants almost all passing language exam

Almost all would-be immigrants are passing the preparatory test in the Dutch language and culture that they are required to complete in their country of origin. The test was introduced on 15 March. Since then, 106 people have taken the test and 101 candidates have passed.

The test was initiated by Immigration and Integration Minister Rita Verdonk. Speaking at a conservative (VVD) party meeting in Haarlem, the minister said the figures show the test requirements have not been set at an unrealistically high level, as some opponents argued.

Most non-EU immigrants who wish to settle in the Netherlands permanently, need to pass the test in their country of origin before being permitted to come over. The Netherlands is the first country in the world to demand such a test for non-Western newcomers.

At a fee of 350 euro, candidates can go to Dutch embassies or consulates to take the preparatory test orally via a computer. The underlying idea behind the compulsory integration test abroad is that newcomers will be better prepared when they arrive. Once in the Netherlands, they are required to take a slightly more difficult follow-up course.

Source: NIS News, ANP, 24 May 2006