Immigrants face new ‘liberal’ test to go Dutch

THE camera focuses on two gay men kissing in a park. Later, a topless woman emerges from the sea and walks on to a crowded beach.

For would-be immigrants to The Netherlands, this film is a test of their readiness to participate in the liberal Dutch culture.

If they can't stomach it, no need to apply.

Whether or not they find the film offensive, applicants must buy a copy and watch it if they hope to pass The Netherlands' new entrance examination.

The test the first of its kind in the world became compulsory this week, and was made available at 138 Dutch embassies around the world.

The exam costs €345.

"As of today, immigrants wishing to settle in The Netherlands for, in particular, the purposes of marrying or forming a relationship, will be required to take the civic integration examination abroad," the immigration ministry said in a statement.

The test is part of a broad crackdown on immigration that has been gathering momentum in The Netherlands since 2001.

Anti-immigration sentiment peaked with filmmaker Theo van Gogh's murder by a Dutch national of Moroccan descent in November 2004.

Both praise and scorn have been poured on Immigration Minister Rita Verdonk, the architect of the test and other policies that have reduced immigration by at least a third.

Dutch theologian Karel Steenbrink criticised the 105-minute movie, saying it would be offensive to some Muslims.

"It is not a prudent way of welcoming people to The Netherlands," said the University of Utrecht professor. "Minister Verdonk has radical ideas."

But Mohammed Sini, the chairman of Islam and Citizenship, a national Muslim organisation, defended the film, saying homosexuality is "a reality".

Mr Sini urged all immigrants "to embrace modernity".

"With all the respect I have for all religions, I think people need to understand that Holland has its own liberal side as well," filmmaker Walter Goverde said.

After viewing the film, which is available in most languages, applicants are then quizzed on important Dutch facts, such as the number of provinces that make up the Netherlands; the role played by William the Silent in the country's history; and Queen Beatrix's monarchial functions.

There are some major exemptions. EU nationals, asylum-seekers and skilled workers who earn more than €44,500 per year will not be required to take the exam, while citizens of the US, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Japan and Switzerland are exempt.