Verlenging naturalisatietermijnen

Reactie

Vraag1

This decision is deeply unfair to those who have already immigrated to the Netherlands through legal channels and who genuinely wish to make this country their permanent home. These individuals made life-changing decisions based on the understanding that naturalisation takes five years. If they had known from the start that the period would be extended to ten years, many might have chosen another country—one where their long-term stability and future would be more secure.

Living for a decade under the uncertainty of temporary residence permits, facing yearly renewals and the ongoing risk of being forced to leave, creates immense stress. It prevents people from building a stable life—from buying a home, starting a family, or investing in their future in the Netherlands. Such uncertainty undermines the very integration that the government says it wants to encourage.

Furthermore, it is unjust to apply the same naturalisation timeline to all categories of immigrants without distinction. For example, highly skilled migrants contribute enormously to the Dutch economy, innovation, and global competitiveness. Their presence strengthens the country’s technological and professional landscape, and they often integrate quickly through work, language, and community participation. These individuals should be supported and appreciated, not discouraged.

A fairer approach would be to maintain or even shorten the naturalisation period for skilled migrants and other well-integrated residents, while tailoring longer requirements—if necessary—to categories that may require more time for cultural or linguistic integration.

In short, the new rule risks alienating exactly the kind of committed, capable individuals who help make the Netherlands a thriving and forward-looking society.