For most HSM holders applying for permanent residency in 2027, the required Dutch exam level is A2, not B1. The civic integration requirement for permanent residency under the current rules is A2, so if your portal says A2, that is almost certainly correct. You should keep your A2 exams unless you have a specific reason to aim higher.

Here is the practical breakdown. The Netherlands requires a basic civic integration exam for permanent residency. That exam is set at A2 level for speaking, listening, reading, and writing, plus the Knowledge of Dutch Society (KNM) exam. Some people confuse this with the higher B1 requirement that applies to certain other permits or to the inburgering obligation for some new arrivals. For your situation as an HSM who came in June 2022 and will apply in April or May 2027, the standard permanent residency route uses A2.

So why might you consider B1? Only if you want it for personal, academic, or career reasons. B1 is not required for permanent residency, and taking it instead of A2 would not speed up your application. In fact, switching now could add cost and stress. Your A2 registration is already in place, and you are eligible to apply next year. The safest path is to sit the A2 exams you booked, pass them, and keep your documents ready for the 2027 application.

One honest tradeoff: if you later apply for naturalization (Dutch citizenship), the language requirement is higher, typically B1. But that is a separate decision for a later date. For permanent residency in 2027, A2 is enough.

Concrete next steps: First, check the exact wording on your IND portal or any letter you received. If it says A2, trust it. Second, if you are still unsure, contact DUO or the IND directly and ask them to confirm the required level for your specific permit and application date. Do not rely on forum guesses. Third, keep your A2 exam dates and prepare for them. Fourth, if you want to future-proof for naturalization, you can study toward B1 after your permanent residency is granted, without delaying your 2027 application.

In short, stick with A2 for now. It is the correct level for permanent residency, and you can always aim higher later. If you want structured practice, a resource like Dutch Fluency can help, but the key is to confirm with the IND and then focus on passing your booked exams.