Verlenging naturalisatietermijnen

Reactie

Vraag1

I am writing to express my strong concern regarding the proposal to extend the naturalization period from 5 to 10 years. While understanding the goal of ensuring integration, I believe this change will be counterproductive, particularly for families who have chosen to build their lives in the Netherlands.

My key points are:

1- Negative Impact on Families and Children: For expats who moved with their families, a 10-year wait creates profound instability. Children who spend their formative years in Dutch schools and society will feel Dutch long before they can officially become so. This policy risks creating a generation in limbo—deeply integrated in spirit but legally excluded for a decade. It can cause anxiety and a sense of alienation within the very families who are successfully putting down roots.

2- Loss of Talent and Competitive Edge: The Netherlands competes for highly skilled migrants. The current 5-year term is a key incentive for families seeking a stable future. Extending it to 10 years creates significant uncertainty and will motivate these talented individuals to choose countries with more predictable pathways to citizenship, leading to a "brain drain."

3- Hinders, Rather Than Helps, Integration: Making committed families wait a decade for full civic participation fosters a sense of being permanent outsiders. True integration is encouraged by offering a clear stake in society, not by prolonging a provisional status. The current 5-year period, combined with strict integration exams, is a sufficient test of commitment.

Conclusion:
I urge the government to reconsider this proposal. For the sake of stable families and a competitive economy, please maintain the 5-year pathway. Let's focus on helping families integrate successfully, not on policies that make them feel their future here is uncertain.

Thank you for considering my feedback.