Verdict 'Raad van State'
On 18 February 2026, the highest administrative judge in the Netherlands, the 'Raad van State', ruled in favour of a plaintiff. The judge ruled that the plaintiff, who was fined in 2019 for not integrating in time, should not have to repay their loan and the fine.
Appeal
The plaintiff, who was fined in 2019, didn't appeal in time. Still, the plaintiff thinks that DUO should forgive the loan and the fine. An appeal was lodged with the Raad van State in 2024. It was upheld on appeal, so judge ruled in favour of the plaintiff.
What happens now?
The Ministry of Social Affairs and Employment (SZW) is reading up on the verdict. This will take time. SZW is responsible for the civic integration act and decides how the law should be executed.
What do you have to do?
You don't have to do anything. Are you required to integrate? You have to continue integrating.
Questions
DUO understands that you may have questions. But we cannot help you yet. If there is more information, you'll find it on this website.
Would you like to read the judge's verdict? You can do so on the Raad van State's website. The verdict is only available in Dutch.