Verlenging naturalisatietermijnen

Reactie

Vraag1

As highly skilled migrants (HSM visa holders), we wish to express our concern and opposition to the proposal to extend the required residence period for naturalization from 5 to 10 years.

1. Contribution to Dutch Economy and Society
We were specifically invited to the Netherlands under the Highly Skilled Migrant scheme because of the country’s recognized shortage of qualified professionals. Many of us are employed in critical sectors where Dutch companies face talent gaps. We contribute directly to the Netherlands’ innovation, productivity, and global competitiveness, while paying taxes and integrating socially.

2. Established Ties and Integration
After 5 years of living and working in the Netherlands, most HSM visa holders have already established strong ties—through stable employment, friendships with Dutch colleagues and neighbors, and active participation in Dutch society. For us, naturalization is a voluntary step to deepen our commitment and integration. Extending the wait to 10 years sends the opposite message: that our contributions are undervalued and our place in society uncertain.

3. Risk of Losing Talent to Competing Countries
If the Netherlands doubles the waiting time for citizenship, many highly skilled professionals will reconsider their long-term future here. Attractive alternatives exist—such as Dubai, Canada, or other EU countries—that combine competitive taxation, welcoming immigration policies, and faster paths to citizenship. In a global economy where talent is mobile, such a change risks driving away the very people who were recruited to strengthen the Netherlands.

4. Differentiation Between Migrant Categories
We recognize that different categories of migrants may integrate at different speeds. It may be reasonable to apply longer requirements in some cases (e.g., for certain asylum processes where ties need more time to develop). However, highly skilled migrants are already contributing from day one, both economically and socially. Applying the same 10-year standard across the board does not reflect these important differences.

5. Policy Impact on the Netherlands’ Reputation
The Netherlands has long been admired as a forward-looking, open economy. Extending the residency period risks damaging this reputation, positioning the Netherlands as less attractive to top global talent at a time when international competition for skilled workers is only intensifying.