Verlenging naturalisatietermijnen

Reactie

Vraag1

Extending the Dutch naturalization period to 10 years is a deeply disappointing move. As a highly skilled immigrant, I came here to contribute to the Dutch economy, integrate into society, and build a long-term future. Highly skilled migrants already bring expertise, pay significant taxes, and fill shortages in sectors like finance, tech, and healthcare. These migrants are responsible for a substantial share of innovation and growth in the Netherlands. Delaying naturalization to 10 years would send exactly the wrong signal, instead of rewarding integration, it punishes it. A passport is not just a document, it provides security, stability, and a sense of belonging. Without it, immigrants remain in a position of uncertainty, facing barriers to mobility and participation in democratic life. Most EU countries (Germany, Belgium, France, etc.) require 5–8 years for naturalization; making it 10 would make the Netherlands one of the strictest in Europe. This risks disouraging international talent at a time when the Dutch economy relies heavily on attracting and retaining skilled professionals. If the goal is integration, then extending the waiting period does the opposite. People who already study, work, and pay taxes here should not be treated as “temporary guests” for a decade before being allowed to fully belong.
Again, I understand that stricter rules might make sense for people who live mainly on social benefits or who are not actively contributing to the economy nor integrating with the culture. But lumping all immigrants into the same category is simply unfair. For example, I came here as an international student, I paid significantly higher tuition fees than Dutch and EU citizens, and afterwards I’ve continued to work here, pay taxes, and integrate as much as possible. Yet instead of recognition, this policy would keep people like me in limbo for a decade.