Verlenging naturalisatietermijnen

Reactie

Vraag1

We respectfully urge the Dutch government to implement any changes to naturalization laws, particularly the proposed extension of the residency requirement from 5 to 10 years, in a fair and non-discriminatory manner.

While we fully recognize the government's right to amend its laws, such changes should not negatively impact those who made life-altering decisions based on the current legal framework.

In 2021, my spouse received job offers in both Germany and the Netherlands. We chose the Netherlands primarily due to the 5-year pathway to naturalization. Since then, we have integrated into Dutch society—learning the language, embracing the culture and values, paying taxes, and adhering to the law.

To follow this path, I am giving up a secure, pensionable job in my home country—a difficult decision made with trust in the fairness and stability of Dutch institutions. If the 10-year requirement is applied retroactively, this major life decision of mine will have been in vain.

We are due to become eligible for naturalization in 2026. Based on this, we have purchased a home and planned to reinvest in the Netherlands by selling assets from our home country after obtaining citizenship. A sudden retroactive change would derail these plansnand we feel it unjust to change the rules just when we are about to meet the existing requirements.

We therefore request that the proposed 10-year requirement is applied only to those who immigrate after the law is enacted, not to those already residing in the Netherlands under the current 5-year rule. This way, newcomers will have the opportunity to make an informed decision about moving to the Netherlands, fully aware of the revised 10-year naturalization timeline. However, for people like us—who already chose the Netherlands and made serious commitments based on existing laws—a retroactive change would be unfair and discriminatory.

To ensure fairness, maintain trust in Dutch institutions, and respect the expectations of law-abiding residents, we urge the government to kindly apply the new requirements only to prospective immigrants.

Bijlage