Verlenging naturalisatietermijnen

Reactie

Vraag1

The proposal to extend the naturalization period from 5 to 10 years will have serious long-term consequences — not only for migrants who are already building their lives here, but also for the Netherlands itself. Those of us who are already here have done everything the system asks of us: • We are learning Dutch, embracing the culture, and integrating into society. • We work full-time, pay taxes, and contribute to the economy. • Many of us have bought homes and see our future here. Changing the rule now would move the goalpost for thousands of people who trusted in the current 5-year path. It risks sending the wrong signal to skilled migrants — the very professionals Dutch companies say they are struggling to find. Neighboring countries like Germany (3 years), Belgium (5 years), and France (5 years) already offer faster and clearer routes to citizenship. If the Netherlands extends the timeline to 10 years, talent will simply move elsewhere — leading to an even greater shortage of skilled professionals. This would also affect the housing market and the broader economy, as many international residents who invest, buy homes, and settle here would rethink their plans. If this change must happen, there should be a transitional arrangement: People who are already living should remain eligible under the current terms. Applying the new rule retroactively would be deeply unfair and counterproductive for a country that values fairness, inclusion, and talent.