Verlenging naturalisatietermijnen

Reactie

Vraag1

I am not in favor of extending naturalization periods and suggest alternatives that maintain integration goals without unnecessary delays:

1. Economic and labor market impact
A. A longer path to citizenship slows skilled worker integration in key sectors like tech, healthcare, and construction, reducing retention and talent availability.
B. Shorter, predictable paths promote job stability, housing investment, and language learning, encouraging long-term commitment.

2. Fairness and equality
A. Five years already signals commitment. Doubling it creates a two-tier system based on arrival date, not actual integration.
B. People arriving just years apart would face unequal waits, undermining trust in the system.

3. Strengthen integration without extending time
A. The Netherlands already requires language skills, civic knowledge, and good conduct. Rather than adding years, raise integration standards, mandate civics courses, and conduct regular progress checks.
B. Invest in accessible language classes, employer-supported training, and mentorship to support real integration.

4. Administrative efficiency
A. A 5-year track is simpler and easier to manage. Longer timelines increase complexity and backlogs.
B. Clear, enforceable criteria (residence, language, conduct) are more effective than vague, extended requirements.

5. Social cohesion and trust
A. Citizenship fosters belonging. A too-long path leaves migrants feeling like outsiders, harming solidarity.
B. Encourage civic engagement and volunteering rather than delay access to full participation.

6. International competitiveness
A. Skilled migrants weigh citizenship timelines. A 10-year path may push talent to countries with faster routes.
B. A transparent, reasonable system helps attract students, workers, and families.

7. Alternatives to extension
A. Improve integration outcomes within 5 years—language, civics, employment, conduct.
B. Set clear milestones (e.g., language by year 2–3, civics by year 4).
C. Offer fast-tracks for highly skilled workers and regional contributors.

8. Family and community impact
A. Many integrate through family and community life. Longer waits delay family planning and affect children’s futures.
B. Extended timelines may reduce civic involvement and sense of belonging.

I urge the government to reconsider the proposal and focus on quality integration within the existing timeframe.