TL;DR: Orientation on Dutch Labour Market (ONA): Portfolio Guide
Orientation on Dutch Labour Market (ONA): Portfolio Guide helps you pass ONA by showing exactly who needs it, how the 8 result cards fit together, when vrijstelling may apply, and how to build a clear, realistic portfolio that matches the DUO interview.
• You learn the full ONA process: portfolio + interview or course, with a step-by-step path from work history and job research to CV, motivation letter, and future plan.
• The guide explains that ONA usually applies to people under the older inburgering rules, while many people under Wet inburgering 2021 follow another route and may not need it.
• It shows the biggest mistakes to avoid: vague job goals, weak evidence, cards that do not match, and plans that ignore Dutch language or diploma requirements.
• You also get simple Dutch terms and sample answers at A1-A2 level, which makes it easier to study content and language at the same time.
If you want more detail on the assignments, start with this ONA portfolio overview: ONA portfolio overview.
Check out our FREE Inburgering Exam e-book:
Prepare For The Dutch Inburgering Exam
If you need to pass ONA, this guide helps you understand the full process in a clear way. ONA means Oriëntatie op de Nederlandse Arbeidsmarkt. In English, that is Orientation on the Dutch Labour Market. The topic is part of the Dutch inburgeringsexamen for many people who fall under the older rules. You will learn what ONA is, who needs it, how the portfolio works, what the 8 result cards are about, and how to prepare without stress.
Here is why this matters. Many people think ONA is “just paperwork”. That is a mistake. Your portfolio tells a story about your work past, your work goals, and your plan in the Netherlands. If the story is weak, unclear, or incomplete, you can lose time. And time matters, because official checks can take weeks. Trusted Dutch sources such as Inburgeren.nl, DUO-related guidance, and Government.nl show that ONA has been a required exam part for many migrants under the old civic exam system, while people under the Wet inburgering 2021 often follow a different route and may not need ONA.
By the end of this guide, you should know what to do first, what to upload, what each card means, when an exemption is possible, and what common mistakes to avoid. You will also see simple Dutch words and example sentences, because many learners at A1-A2 level need both content and language practice at the same time.
What is ONA in the context of the Dutch inburgering exam?
ONA is the exam part about working and finding work in the Netherlands. The Dutch labour market means the world of jobs in the Netherlands: employers, vacancies, CVs, interviews, job applications, contracts, diplomas, and work culture. ONA checks whether you understand that world well enough to make realistic work choices.
Trusted sources in your research data point to the same structure. The ONA process usually has two parts:
- A portfolio with assignments, often called resultaatkaarten or result cards.
- A final interview with DUO staff, or in some cases an approved ONA course of about 64 hours.
The portfolio is not random. It is a structured set of tasks about your work experience, your skills, your job search, your CV, your motivation letter, and your future plan. You submit it to DUO. DUO is the Dutch government service that handles many education and inburgering tasks. After approval, you may go to the interview if that is your route.
One detail confuses many learners. ONA is linked to the older inburgering system. According to Government.nl, the new Wet inburgering 2021 started on 1 January 2022, but people who already had the duty before that date often stay under the old rules. That is why your personal situation matters. Always check Mijn Inburgering.
- ONA = Orientation on the Dutch Labour Market
- Portfolio = a file with your work-related assignments and evidence
- Interview = speaking about your portfolio
- DUO = the Dutch service that processes inburgering exam matters
- Wet inburgering 2013 / 2021 = the law system that decides which rules apply to you
Many training providers say learners get stuck because they begin filling in cards too fast, without building one coherent story. That warning is useful. If your cards do not connect well, the portfolio feels weak. So, start with your profile first, then build the later cards around it.
📚 Essential Dutch Terms
Oriëntatie = orientation. It means learning about something.
Arbeidsmarkt = labour market. De arbeidsmarkt in Nederland is groot.
Portfolio = portfolio. A set of documents. Ik maak mijn portfolio voor ONA.
Resultaatkaart = result card. One assignment page. Ik vul resultaatkaart 1 in.
Bewijs = evidence, proof. Ik upload een bewijs.
Vrijstelling = exemption. Misschien krijg ik vrijstelling.
Sollicitatie = job application. Ik schrijf een sollicitatie.
Who needs ONA, and who may be exempt?
This is one of the most misunderstood parts. Not every newcomer in the Netherlands has to do ONA. The rule depends on which inburgering law applies to you and whether you already completed another route or have enough work history in the Netherlands.
Trusted source pages from Inburgeren.nl state that some people do not need to take ONA. A common reason is that they already completed the MAP module. MAP means Module Arbeidsmarkt en Participatie, the Job Market and Participation module. Another reason can be enough work in the Netherlands during the past year, if the official conditions are met and an exemption is approved.
The exact conditions can change, and some pages online simplify them too much. So use private school pages for support, but use Inburgeren.nl and Mijn Inburgering for the final answer. One source in your data mentions an exemption for people who worked for at least six months in the past 12 months. The official page confirms that work in the Netherlands can lead to exemption, but you still need to check the current conditions and often apply for it.
- You may need ONA if you fall under the older inburgering rules.
- You may not need ONA if you fall under the 2021 law.
- You may get exemption if you completed MAP.
- You may get exemption if you worked enough in the Netherlands and meet the official conditions.
- You must always verify this in Mijn Inburgering or on Inburgeren.nl.
A practical warning: some people assume that “I already have a job, so I do not need ONA.” That can be wrong. Some websites mention exceptions and older situations that depend on legal route, work type, and exam path. Do not guess. Check your own file.
Trusted sources you should know
- Inburgeren.nl for exemption rules, ONA information, and Mijn Inburgering access
- Government.nl for the wider law context and the change from the old system to the new system
- DUO / Mijn Inburgering for your personal status, deadlines, and exam route
- IDW for foreign diploma evaluation or Indicatie Onderwijsniveau
IDW means International Credential Evaluation. If you have a diploma from another country, IDW can compare it with a Dutch level. That can help your ONA portfolio and your real job search. If you do not have your documents, there may be another route called ION, which gives an education level indication.
📚 Essential Dutch Terms
Wet = law. De wet is nieuw.
Vrijstelling = exemption. Ik vraag een vrijstelling aan.
Werken = to work. Ik werk in Nederland.
Aanvragen = to apply for. Ik vraag vrijstelling aan.
Diploma = diploma. Ik heb een diploma uit Syrië.
Opleidingsniveau = education level. Mijn opleidingsniveau is hoog.
What is in the ONA portfolio?
The ONA portfolio usually contains 8 assignments, often called cards. Each card covers one part of your orientation on work in the Netherlands. Together, they should show that you understand yourself, your job options, and the Dutch job process. If you want a page that introduces the whole set, see What is the ONA portfolio? (8 assignments).
Let’s break it down. The cards are connected. Card 1 gives the base. Cards 2 and 3 connect your profile to the labour market. Cards 4, 5, and 6 are your application tools. Card 7 is about the interview. Card 8 is reflection and your plan. If you skip this logic, the portfolio looks messy.
- Card 1: your work experience and skills
- Card 2: labour market research
- Card 3: your ideal job profile
- Card 4: job application preparation
- Card 5: CV writing in Dutch format
- Card 6: motivation letter or sollicitatiebrief
- Card 7: job interview preparation
- Card 8: self-evaluation and plan
Most learners do not fail because the cards are “too hard”. They fail because the cards do not match each other. A bad portfolio often has these problems:
- The job goal is too vague, like “I want any job”.
- The CV does not match the motivation letter.
- The interview answers do not match the portfolio story.
- There is no evidence, or the evidence is weak.
- The Dutch work reality is ignored, such as required diplomas, language level, or local work norms.
That last point is painful but real. If your dream job needs Dutch at B1 or B2 level and a Dutch-recognized diploma, but your portfolio says you will apply next week with no plan, DUO may see that as unrealistic. ONA is about orientation, not fantasy.
What kind of evidence can support your portfolio?
- A vacancy you found online
- A diploma evaluation from IDW
- A draft CV
- A motivation letter
- Notes from job research
- Training or course certificates
- Emails about job applications
- Volunteer work or internship details
One private source in your data says checking the portfolio can take up to six weeks, while another mentions around eight weeks in some cases. Treat this as a sign to start early. Waiting until the last moment is a bad plan.
How do the 8 ONA cards work, one by one?
Next steps. Below is the full card-by-card map. Each card builds on the previous one. I will also include each related sub-cluster article once so you can study that topic in more detail.
Card 1: Your work experience and skills
This card is your starting point. You describe your past work, your tasks, your strengths, and your practical skills. This includes paid work, unpaid work, training, family care, and volunteer work if relevant. If you want more detail, read Card 1: Your work experience and skills.
Meaningful words explained: work experience means jobs or work you did before. skills are things you can do well, like cooking, driving, organizing, selling, caring, or using a computer. strengths are your strong points. task means one part of your job, like answering phones or helping customers.
- Write what work you did
- Write what you learned
- Write what you can do now
- Be honest and clear
Simple example: “I worked in a bakery for three years. I helped customers, cleaned the shop, and used the cash register.” This is stronger than “I worked in food.”
Card 2: Job market research
Now you move from you to the Dutch labour market. You research real jobs, real vacancies, work conditions, required diplomas, working hours, and salary level. See Card 2: Job market research.
Meaningful words explained: research means looking for information. vacancy means a job opening. salary means money from work. requirements means what the employer asks for. sector means a field of work, like healthcare, logistics, horeca, or construction.
Look at websites with vacancies. Compare jobs. Check if your target job asks for Dutch language level, driving licence, diploma recognition, or computer skills. ONA wants realistic orientation, so this card is very important.
Card 3: Your ideal job profile
This card connects your past and the labour market. What is your ideal job? A realistic answer is better than a fancy answer. Read Card 3: Your ideal job profile.
Meaningful words explained: ideal means best for you. profile means a clear picture of you as a worker. realistic means possible in real life. goal means what you want to reach.
A weak answer is: “My ideal job is manager.” A stronger answer is: “I want to work as a kitchen assistant now, improve my Dutch, and later grow to team leader.” That shows a plan.
Card 4: Job application preparation
Here you show that you know how to prepare for applying. That includes searching for suitable jobs, understanding the vacancy text, collecting documents, and planning your application. See Card 4: Job application preparation.
Meaningful words explained: application means asking for a job. prepare means get ready. document means a file or paper. suitable means right for you. deadline means the last day you can send something.
- Read the vacancy well
- Check what the employer asks
- Prepare your CV and letter
- Collect proof of diploma or experience
Card 5: CV writing in Dutch format
Your CV is one of the most concrete parts of ONA. A CV is a short document with your personal details, work history, education, skills, and language level. Dutch employers often want a clear and simple style. Read Card 5: CV writing in Dutch format.
Meaningful words explained: CV means curriculum vitae, a summary of your work life. format means the way it looks and is organized. education means school or training. reference means a person who can speak about your work.
A Dutch CV usually needs clear dates, job titles, employer names, and short descriptions. If there are gaps, be ready to explain them honestly. Your CV must match Card 1 and Card 3.
Card 6: Motivation letter (sollicitatiebrief)
This card is about the motivation letter, also called sollicitatiebrief. It explains why you want the job and why you fit the vacancy. See Card 6: Motivation letter (sollicitatiebrief).
Meaningful words explained: motivation means your reason and energy for the job. letter means a written message. fit means match well. employer means the company or person who gives the job.
A bad letter is generic. A better letter shows connection with one real vacancy. It says what attracts you, what you can bring, and what experience you have. Keep it short, polite, and specific.
Card 7: Job interview preparation
After a CV and letter comes the interview. Card 7 checks if you can prepare for a job conversation. That includes common questions, your self-presentation, your strengths, and your availability. Read Card 7: Job interview preparation.
Meaningful words explained: interview means a formal conversation about a job. prepare means get ready. availability means when you can work. weakness means something you need to improve.
This matters for the ONA final interview too. If you cannot explain your own portfolio clearly, your preparation is weak. Practice short, true answers. Do not memorize big speeches that sound fake.
Card 8: Self-evaluation and plan
The last card is reflection. You look at what you learned and what you still need. You make a plan for the next step in the Dutch labour market. See Card 8: Self-evaluation and plan.
Meaningful words explained: self-evaluation means thinking about yourself and judging your progress. plan means a list of future steps. improve means get better. target means the thing you want to reach.
This card often shows if the whole portfolio is serious or not. If your plan says “I will find work soon” and nothing more, that is weak. If your plan says “First I improve Dutch to A2, then I do volunteer work, then I apply for assistant jobs in childcare,” that is stronger and more realistic.
How does the ONA interview work?
After DUO approves the portfolio, many candidates do a final interview. Some sources in your research mention about 30 minutes, others mention about 40 minutes. That difference likely comes from route, source, or older practice. The safe lesson is simple: prepare for a real conversation about your portfolio.
The interview usually focuses on what you wrote. Examiners want to see if:
- you understand your own cards
- your story is coherent
- your goals are realistic
- you know how to look for work in the Netherlands
- you can explain your choices
You do not need perfect Dutch if your route allows simple speaking, but you do need clear answers. If you copied answers you do not understand, the interview may expose that fast. This is why many people fear ONA. The portfolio can hide weak understanding for a while. The interview cannot.
Common interview topics
- Your work history
- Your strongest skills
- Your job goal in the Netherlands
- What vacancies you found
- Why a job fits you
- What Dutch level or diploma you still need
- What your next step is
Short practice answer: “Ik wil werken als helpende. Ik heb ervaring met zorg. Ik moet mijn Nederlands verbeteren. Daarom volg ik les en zoek ik stage.” This is simple, honest, and realistic.
📚 Essential Dutch Terms
Gesprek = conversation. Ik heb een gesprek met DUO.
Vraag = question. De docent stelt een vraag.
Antwoord = answer. Mijn antwoord is kort.
Ervaring = experience. Ik heb ervaring in de horeca.
Toekomst = future. Mijn toekomst is in Nederland.
What are the most common mistakes in an ONA portfolio?
Here is where many people lose weeks. The biggest errors are not grammar errors. They are thinking errors. Let’s break it down.
- Being too vague
“I can do many jobs” says almost nothing. - Choosing unrealistic job goals
A dream is fine, but ONA wants a real path. - Ignoring Dutch job requirements
If a profession needs registration, diploma recognition, or stronger Dutch, say that. - Sending weak evidence
Your portfolio should show real activity. - Writing cards that do not match
Your CV, letter, interview answers, and plan should fit together. - Copying generic sample answers
If the answers sound polished but you cannot explain them, the interview becomes hard. - Starting too late
Portfolio review and interview planning may take weeks.
A strong portfolio is not about sounding smart. It is about sounding true, clear, and prepared. That is a big difference.
One hard truth: many learners spend hours making “beautiful” Dutch sentences but forget the logic of the file. Examiners care more about whether your plan makes sense than whether every sentence is elegant. Clear and simple beats pretty and empty.
Quick comparison: weak answer vs strong answer
- Weak: “I want to work in an office because I like people.”
- Strong: “I want an administrative assistant job. I used computers in my last job, I enjoy planning, and I found vacancies that ask for Dutch at A2-B1. My next step is Dutch practice and Excel training.”
How should you prepare your ONA portfolio step by step?
If you want a calm process, follow a clear order. Do not jump around. Build one connected story from start to finish.
- First: Check your status
Log in to Mijn Inburgering. Check if ONA applies to you or if exemption may be possible. - Then: Collect your personal work history
Write down jobs, tasks, education, certificates, language level, and strengths. - Next: Research real Dutch vacancies
Look for jobs that match your history and current level. - After that: Choose a realistic job goal
Pick work that fits your present skills and your near future. - Then: Prepare application documents
Make a Dutch-style CV and a short motivation letter. - Next: Gather evidence
Save vacancies, evaluations, drafts, certificates, and any work-related proof. - Then: Complete all 8 cards carefully
Make sure each card supports the same story. - Finally: Practice for the interview
Read your own answers aloud and make short spoken summaries.
Timeline: many course providers say active preparation can be done in a short time if you already have work history and clear goals, but official checking and scheduling can take 6 to 8 weeks or more. So start early.
Practical checklist before submission
- Did I answer every card?
- Do my answers match each other?
- Is my job goal realistic in the Netherlands?
- Did I explain missing diplomas, Dutch level, or experience gaps?
- Did I upload evidence?
- Can I explain every answer in simple spoken Dutch or English-supported study terms?
What trusted facts and sources should you remember?
Below are the most useful facts from trusted or widely used sources in your research set. These facts give you a clean overview.
- ONA is about work in the Netherlands and is part of the older inburgering exam route for many migrants.
- The portfolio and interview or course are the usual two parts of ONA.
- There are 8 result cards in the portfolio structure used by most learning materials.
- People under Wet inburgering 2021 often do not need ONA. Check your route in Mijn Inburgering.
- Exemption may be possible after completing MAP or after enough work in the Netherlands if official conditions are met.
- IDW diploma evaluation can help people with foreign diplomas.
- Checking and scheduling can take weeks, so late preparation creates risk.
Source network mentioned in this guide: Inburgeren.nl, Government.nl, and supporting learning pages that describe the portfolio, interview, and course structure. For legal status and personal route, always trust the official government pages first.
A small warning about private sources. Language schools and practice websites can be helpful for examples, but they sometimes simplify legal rules or use older details. That is normal in course marketing. Good for study support, not enough for legal certainty.
Nederlands: simpele uitleg over ONA
ONA betekent Oriëntatie op de Nederlandse Arbeidsmarkt. Dit gaat over werken en werk zoeken in Nederland. Je maakt een portfolio. In het portfolio zitten 8 kaarten. Daarna heb je vaak een gesprek met DUO, of je volgt een cursus.
Je leert deze dingen:
- wat je werkervaring is
- wat je goed kunt
- welk werk bij jou past
- hoe je vacatures zoekt
- hoe je een cv maakt
- hoe je een sollicitatiebrief schrijft
- hoe je je voorbereidt op een gesprek
- wat jouw plan voor de toekomst is
Belangrijke woorden:
werkervaring = werk uit het verleden
vaardigheden = dingen die je kunt
vacature = open baan
sollicitatiebrief = brief voor een baan
gesprek = interview
plan = wat je later gaat doen
Een goed portfolio is duidelijk, eerlijk en realistisch. Kies dus geen baan die nu niet past. Laat zien wat je nu kunt, en ook wat je later wilt leren. Dat is slim.
Voorbeeld: “Ik wil werken als keukenhulp. Ik heb ervaring in een restaurant. Mijn Nederlands is nog niet hoog. Daarom leer ik Nederlands en zoek ik werk in de horeca.” Dit is een goed en simpel antwoord.
Kijk altijd in Mijn Inburgering. Daar zie je of ONA voor jou nodig is. Soms krijg je vrijstelling. Dat hangt af van jouw situatie.
What should you do next?
If ONA is part of your route, do not wait. Check your legal status first. Then build your portfolio in the right order. Start with your past work and skills, research the labour market, choose a realistic job goal, and prepare your documents. After that, practice speaking about every answer.
The smartest move is simple: make your portfolio tell one clear story. A story about who you are, what work fits you, what the Dutch labour market asks, and what you will do next. That is what ONA wants to see. And that is also what helps you outside the exam, in real life, when you actually apply for work.
Final reminder: use this guide for learning, but confirm your route, deadlines, and exemption options on Inburgeren.nl and in Mijn Inburgering. That saves stress, wasted time, and avoidable mistakes.
Samenvatting (Article Summary in Dutch)
Practice your reading: This section covers the same information in simple Dutch. Explain how to find answers.
De ONA is een deel van het inburgeringsexamen in Nederland. ONA betekent Oriëntatie op de Nederlandse Arbeidsmarkt. Je maakt een portfolio en je leert over werk zoeken, beroepen, cv, sollicitatiebrief en een gesprek over werk. Kijk goed naar woorden zoals werk, portfolio, solliciteren en gesprek. Dan vind je de antwoorden sneller.
Vertaling (Translation):
- arbeidsmarkt = labour market
- portfolio = portfolio
- solliciteren = to apply for a job
Common Mistakes and How To Avoid Them (H2)
❌ Mistake 1: Je denkt dat ONA alleen over een baan vinden gaat.
✅ Instead: Leer ook over je kwaliteiten, beroepen, werkcultuur en solliciteren in Nederland.
❌ Mistake 2: Je schrijft te lange en moeilijke zinnen in je portfolio.
✅ Instead: Schrijf korte, duidelijke zinnen op A1-niveau.
❌ Mistake 3: Je vergeet bewijs of voorbeelden te geven.
✅ Instead: Schrijf concrete dingen op, zoals je werkervaring, diploma’s en wat voor werk je zoekt.
❌ Mistake 4: Je kent Nederlandse woorden voor werk niet goed.
✅ Instead: Oefen woorden zoals cv, vacature, werkgever, collega en contract.
❌ Mistake 5: Je weet niet hoe een sollicitatie in Nederland vaak gaat.
✅ Instead: Leer de stappen: vacature lezen, cv maken, brief schrijven en gesprek voeren.
❌ Mistake 6: Je oefent alleen lezen en niet spreken.
✅ Instead: Oefen ook hardop met vragen over werk en je eigen ervaring.
Dutch Practice Exercise (Oefen je Nederlands)
Reading comprehension: Read this paragraph in Dutch and answer the questions below.
Note: Click “Show answer” immediately after each question to check your understanding.
Bij ONA leer je over werken in Nederland. Je maakt een portfolio met opdrachten over jouw werk, opleiding en plannen. Ook leer je hoe je een cv maakt en hoe je kunt solliciteren. Soms heb je daarna een eindgesprek over jouw portfolio. Dat gesprek gaat over jouw toekomst op de Nederlandse arbeidsmarkt.
Vragen (Questions):
Bij ONA leer je over werken in Nederland.
✅ WAAR ❌ NIET WAARShow answer
✅ WAAR – Dat staat in de eerste zin.De ________ heeft opdrachten over werk, opleiding en plannen.
Show answer
portfolioWat leer je ook bij ONA?
A) Hoe je een huis koopt
B) Hoe je een cv maakt
C) Hoe je autorijdt
D) Hoe je een bank opentShow answer
B) Hoe je een cv maaktNa ONA is er altijd geen gesprek.
✅ WAAR ❌ NIET WAARShow answer
❌ NIET WAAR – In de tekst staat: soms heb je daarna een eindgesprek.Dat gesprek gaat over jouw toekomst op de Nederlandse ________.
Show answer
arbeidsmarkt
Dutch Vocabulary List (Woordenlijst)
Master these terms from this article:
Nouns (Zelfstandige naamwoorden)
- het inburgeringsexamen – the civic integration exam
- de arbeidsmarkt – the labour market
- het portfolio – the portfolio
- het werk – work
- de baan – the job
- het beroep – profession
- de opleiding – education
- het diploma – diploma
- de ervaring – experience
- de vacature – job vacancy
- de werkgever – employer
- de werknemer – employee
- de collega – colleague
- het contract – contract
- het gesprek – conversation, interview
- het cv – CV, resume
- de sollicitatiebrief – application letter
- de toekomst – future
Verbs (Werkwoorden)
- werken – to work
- leren – to learn
- maken – to make
- schrijven – to write
- lezen – to read
- zoeken – to search
- solliciteren – to apply for a job
- oefenen – to practise
- vertellen – to tell
- beginnen – to start
Adjectives & Phrases (Bijvoeglijke naamwoorden & uitdrukkingen)
- verplicht – mandatory
- duidelijk – clear
- kort – short
- persoonlijk – personal
- in Nederland – in the Netherlands
- op de arbeidsmarkt – on the labour market
- een cv maken – to make a CV
- een brief schrijven – to write a letter
Extra Oefeningen voor Taal en ONA
Hier is meer oefening. Zo leer je woorden, grammatica en ook iets over werkcultuur in Nederland.
1. Woorden koppelen
Koppel het Nederlandse woord aan de Engelse vertaling.
- de vacature
- de werkgever
- solliciteren
- het diploma
- de collega
A. colleague
B. employer
C. diploma
D. to apply for a job
E. job vacancy
Show answer
1 = E
2 = B
3 = D
4 = C
5 = A
2. Kies het goede lidwoord
Kies: de of het.
- ___ portfolio
- ___ arbeidsmarkt
- ___ gesprek
- ___ vacature
- ___ contract
Show answer
- het
- de
- het
- de
- het
3. Vul het werkwoord in
Gebruik: maken, zoeken, leren, werken, schrijven
- Ik ________ een cv.
- Wij ________ over banen in Nederland.
- Hij ________ naar een vacature.
- Zij ________ een sollicitatiebrief.
- Jullie ________ in een winkel.
Show answer
- maak
- leren
- zoekt
- schrijft
- werken
4. Zet de zin in de goede volgorde
Maak een goede zin.
- maak / ik / een / portfolio
- in / werkt / Nederland / zij
- een / schrijft / brief / hij
- over / wij / werk / leren
- zoek / ik / een / baan
Show answer
- Ik maak een portfolio.
- Zij werkt in Nederland.
- Hij schrijft een brief.
- Wij leren over werk.
- Ik zoek een baan.
5. Kies de goede vorm
Kies kan, kunnen, kunt of kun.
- Ik ________ solliciteren.
- Jij ________ een cv maken.
- Wij ________ Nederlands leren.
- U ________ een vraag stellen.
- Jullie ________ werk zoeken.
Show answer
- kan
- kunt
- kunnen
- kunt
- kunnen
6. Persoonlijke vragen voor schrijven
Schrijf korte antwoorden in het Nederlands.
- Wat voor werk zoek jij?
- Heb jij al een cv?
- Waar wil jij werken?
- Wat kun jij goed?
- Welke taal spreek jij?
Show answer
Mogelijke antwoorden:
- Ik zoek werk in een winkel.
- Ja, ik heb al een cv.
- Ik wil in Amsterdam werken.
- Ik kan goed met mensen praten.
- Ik spreek Nederlands en Engels.
7. Werkcultuur in Nederland
Lees de zinnen. Kies ja of nee.
- Op tijd komen is belangrijk bij werk in Nederland.
- Een cv is vaak nodig als je solliciteert.
- Je hoeft nooit iets over jezelf te vertellen in een gesprek.
- Het is goed om vriendelijk en duidelijk te praten.
- Een werkgever kan vragen naar je ervaring.
Show answer
- ja
- ja
- nee
- ja
- ja
8. Meerkeuze over ONA
- Wat maak je vaak bij ONA?
A) een paspoort
B) een portfolio
C) een fiets
D) een huis
Show answer
- Waarover leer je bij ONA?
A) de Nederlandse arbeidsmarkt
B) alleen sport
C) alleen koken
D) alleen reizen
Show answer
- Wat hoort bij solliciteren?
A) een cv
B) een tandenborstel
C) een sleutel
D) een kaart van Europa
Show answer
9. Invuloefening met voorzetsels
Kies: in, op, met, naar
- Ik werk ________ Nederland.
- Zij zoekt ________ werk.
- Hij praat ________ de docent.
- Wij kijken ________ een vacature.
- Het gesprek gaat ________ jouw toekomst.
Show answer
- in
- naar
- met
- naar
- over
10. Let op: vaste combinaties
Maak de goede combinatie.
- een cv
- een sollicitatiebrief
- een baan
- een gesprek
- werk
A. schrijven
B. zoeken
C. maken
D. hebben
E. voeren
Show answer
- C
- A
- B
- E
- D
11. Fout of goed?
Kijk naar de zin. Is de zin goed of fout?
- Ik maakt een cv.
- Wij leren over werk.
- Hij zoek een baan.
- Zij schrijft een brief.
- Ik ben op tijd.
Show answer
- fout, goed: Ik maak een cv.
- goed
- fout, goed: Hij zoekt een baan.
- goed
- goed
12. Mini leesstuk over een cursist
Lees de tekst.
Sara woont in Utrecht. Zij leert Nederlands en zij doet ONA. In haar portfolio schrijft zij over haar oude werk in Marokko. Zij wil graag in een kapsalon werken. Daarom oefent zij met haar cv en met solliciteren.
Vragen:
Sara woont in Rotterdam.
✅ WAAR ❌ NIET WAARShow answer
❌ NIET WAAR – Sara woont in Utrecht.Zij schrijft in haar portfolio over haar oude ________.
Show answer
werkWaar wil Sara werken?
A) in een school
B) in een kapsalon
C) in een ziekenhuis
D) in een hotelShow answer
B) in een kapsalonSara oefent met haar cv.
✅ WAAR ❌ NIET WAARShow answer
✅ WAAR
13. Spreekoefening
Lees de vragen hardop en geef zelf antwoord.
- Hoe heet jij?
- Wat is jouw beroep?
- Heb jij werkervaring?
- Wil jij fulltime of parttime werken?
- Waarom wil jij in Nederland werken?
Show answer
Mogelijke antwoorden:
- Ik heet Ali.
- Ik ben kok.
- Ja, ik heb werkervaring.
- Ik wil parttime werken.
- Ik wil geld verdienen en Nederlands leren.
14. Schrijf een mini-cv
Schrijf 4 korte zinnen over jezelf.
Gebruik dit model:
- Ik heet ________.
- Ik kom uit ________.
- Ik heb ervaring in ________.
- Ik zoek werk als ________.
Show answer
Voorbeeld:
Ik heet Lina.
Ik kom uit Syrië.
Ik heb ervaring in de schoonmaak.
Ik zoek werk als medewerker in een hotel.
15. Handige zinnen voor een gesprek
Lees en oefen deze zinnen.
- Ik zoek werk.
- Ik heb ervaring.
- Ik wil graag leren.
- Ik ben gemotiveerd.
- Ik kan in een team werken.
Kies de beste zin bij de situatie.
Je wilt zeggen dat je al eerder dit werk deed.
Show answer
Ik heb ervaring.Je wilt zeggen dat je samen met anderen kunt werken.
Show answer
Ik kan in een team werken.Je wilt zeggen dat je werk zoekt.
Show answer
Ik zoek werk.
Korte tip voor leren
Lees de woorden hardop. Schrijf daarna drie zinnen over jezelf en werk. Oefen ook met een vriend, docent of taalmaatje. Zo word je beter in lezen, schrijven en spreken over ONA.
People Also Ask:
What is ONA in the Netherlands?
ONA stands for Oriëntatie op de Nederlandse Arbeidsmarkt, which means Orientation on the Dutch Labour Market. It is a part of the Dutch inburgering process for people under the older civic integration rules. ONA focuses on learning how work in the Netherlands functions, how to look for a job, and how to present your skills and work experience.
What is the ONA exam in the Netherlands?
The ONA exam is the labour market part of the Dutch inburgering program. It usually involves making an ONA portfolio and, in some cases, attending a final interview about that portfolio. The goal is to show that you understand the Dutch job market and have thought about your own work chances in the Netherlands.
What is included in the ONA portfolio?
The ONA portfolio usually includes answers about your work history, personal qualities, jobs that fit your experience, and steps you have taken to learn about working in the Netherlands. You may also need to upload proof, such as certificates, CV work, job applications, or other documents that show your labour market orientation.
How do I complete the ONA portfolio?
You complete the ONA portfolio by answering the required questions and collecting supporting documents that match your answers. These answers are usually about your experience, strengths, future job plans, and what you learned about Dutch work culture. After finishing it, you submit the portfolio through the official inburgering system if that applies to your case.
Do I always need an interview after the ONA portfolio?
Not always. In many cases, after your portfolio is approved, you may be invited to a final interview where you talk about what you wrote. Some people may be exempt from ONA, which means they do not need to do the portfolio or interview. The exact rule depends on your inburgering situation and whether DUO grants an exemption.
How long does an ONA exemption take?
An ONA exemption decision usually takes up to 8 weeks after DUO receives the form and supporting documents. If more information is needed, it may take longer. You can usually check the status through Mijn Inburgering.
Who can get an exemption for ONA?
People who have already worked or studied enough in the Netherlands, or who meet other DUO conditions, may qualify for an ONA exemption. The exact conditions depend on your personal history and the rules that apply to your inburgering track. You must usually send proof with your request.
What level of Dutch is needed for the inburgering exam?
In 2026, the required Dutch level for permanent residence and naturalisation is often A2, while B1 remains the target level for many people under the Civic Integration Act 2021. The exact level you need depends on your legal route and when your inburgering requirement started. ONA itself is more focused on work orientation than language testing alone.
How hard is the Dutch civic integration exam?
Many people find the Dutch civic integration exam manageable if they prepare well and practice often. The language parts usually test reading, writing, listening, and speaking at around A2 level for many candidates, though some routes aim at B1. ONA can feel challenging because it asks you to reflect on your work plans and prepare documents, not just answer language questions.
Is ONA still part of inburgering in 2026?
ONA still appears mainly for people who started under the Wet inburgering 2013. People under the newer Wet inburgering 2021 often deal with MAP instead of ONA. So whether ONA applies to you in 2026 depends on when your inburgering duty began and which law covers your case.
FAQ
Can I write my ONA portfolio in simple Dutch, or does it need advanced language?
Yes. Clear, simple Dutch is usually better than difficult Dutch with mistakes. ONA checks whether your work story is realistic and understandable. Short sentences, correct facts, and matching documents matter more than fancy wording. If needed, ask a teacher to check clarity, not to completely rewrite your answers.
What should I do if I have little or no formal work experience?
Use all relevant experience, not only paid jobs. Volunteer work, internships, family care, school projects, and practical tasks can show useful skills. Describe what you did, what you learned, and how that connects to jobs in the Netherlands. Concrete examples are much stronger than general statements.
How can I choose a realistic job goal for my ONA cards?
Start with three things: your past experience, your current Dutch level, and actual vacancies in your region. If a profession needs registration or stronger Dutch, mention that honestly. A step-by-step goal works best. For official background, see Orientation on the Dutch Labour Market.
What if my foreign diploma is not recognized in the Netherlands?
Do not ignore that problem in your portfolio. Mention that diploma recognition may be needed and show what step you will take next, such as contacting IDW. This makes your plan more credible. ONA values realistic orientation, so showing awareness of barriers can actually strengthen your portfolio.
How much evidence is enough for a strong ONA portfolio?
There is no magic number, but your evidence should support your story clearly. Good examples include vacancies, a CV, a motivation letter, certificates, volunteer details, and diploma evaluation papers. Choose relevant evidence, not random files. Quality and connection between documents matter more than uploading many unrelated items.
What happens if DUO rejects or does not approve my portfolio?
Usually, you need to improve unclear, weak, or incomplete parts before moving forward. Read the feedback carefully and fix the logic, not only the language. Many people benefit from checking how to complete your ONA portfolio before resubmitting.
Is it better to do the ONA interview or the 64-hour course?
That depends on your route, confidence, and what is available to you. If you can explain your portfolio well, the interview may be efficient. If you need more support and structure, a course can help. Always confirm which option applies in your personal inburgering situation first.
How do I prepare if I get nervous speaking during the ONA interview?
Practice speaking from keywords, not from memorized paragraphs. Say your work history, job goal, and next steps out loud in one minute each. Record yourself and listen back. The best preparation is being able to explain your own portfolio naturally, with short, honest answers.
Should I adapt my CV and motivation letter to Dutch employer expectations?
Yes, definitely. Dutch employers often prefer direct, clear, well-structured applications. Your CV should have logical dates, job titles, and short task descriptions. Your letter should match one real vacancy. For broader job-search advice, read Dutch labour market tips for newcomers.
What is the smartest way to avoid delays in the ONA process?
Start earlier than you think you need to. Collect work history, research vacancies, prepare your documents, and check your status in Mijn Inburgering before deadlines get close. Since review and scheduling can take weeks, early preparation reduces stress and gives you time to correct mistakes.
