Complete guide for nurses with diplomas from outside the EU/EEA who want to register in the Netherlands
Specific requirements for nurses with diplomas from outside the EU/EEA in 2025
HBO nursing diploma (Bachelor level, 4 years)
Declaration of professional competence via CBGV
BI test (professional content test) mandatory in 2025
Dutch B2 level (CNaVT certificate)
CCPS certificates from all relevant countries
Good Conduct certificates
Nurses often have a higher success rate than pharmacists because Dutch nursing education is more comparable to international standards. The CBGV is usually less strict for nurses.
Extensive procedure via Declaration of professional competence including new BI test
Collect all required documents before starting
Online application via mijn.bigregister.nl
Professional content test for nurses
Commission assesses your education, experience and BI test
CNaVT B2 certificate for nurses
Final registration with supervision period
Extensive document list for Declaration of professional competence
CCPS and Good Conduct certificates may not be older than 3 months. The BI test must be taken before the CBGV can assess your application.
Faster ways to work in Dutch healthcare
VIG route: Faster alternative with growth opportunities to nurse
Home care: High demand for caregivers with international experience
V&VN membership: Support and network for international nurses
Start as VIG to gain Dutch work experience and learn the language. This significantly speeds up your full nurse registration later.
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Specific questions for non-EU nurses
The professional content test (BI test) has been mandatory since 2025 for nurses from outside the EU. The test examines your knowledge of Dutch nursing practice, protocols and guidelines. Information sessions are organized for preparation. Study Dutch V&VN guidelines and participate in preparation sessions.
For nurses, the full procedure takes an average of 8-15 months: documentation (1-2 months), submitting application (1 month), BI test preparation and taking (2-3 months), CBGV assessment (3 months), language test (parallel), BIG application (2-3 months). This is significantly faster than for pharmacists.
Yes, this is often recommended! As VIG you can start working within 6-12 months, gain Dutch work experience and improve the language. Later you can upgrade to full nurse. Many employers support this route and offer study facilities.
The BI test can be repeated. You will receive feedback on which topics you need to improve. Often additional courses or internships can help. The CBGV also looks at your overall profile - work experience can sometimes compensate for a lower test score.
Yes! You can work as a care assistant, VIG (with separate application), or in supporting roles. This gives you valuable Dutch work experience and helps with language acquisition. Many healthcare organizations offer growth programs.
After BIG registration you can specialize in intensive care, operating room, psychiatric nursing, district nursing, maternity care, or disability care. The Netherlands has a great need for specialized nurses. Many specializations are funded by employers.
Official websites and resources for non-EU nurses
Online application for recognition of non-EU diplomas
Professional association with support for international nurses
Overview of all required documents
Mandatory form for nurses
Official Dutch language certification B2
Dutch nursing courses and BI test preparation
Start today with your preparation for the Dutch nursing career
