Verlenging naturalisatietermijnen

Reactie

Vraag1

The proposal raises concerns on several fronts: legal, economic, and social.

Violation of Equality and Proportionality
The proposal discriminates against individuals who are not married to a Dutch citizen but are otherwise fully integrated. Even with the government’s plan to extend the partnership period to 5 years, a 10-year requirement for others remains disproportionate and violates the constitutional principle of equality.

Violation of International Agreements
Doubling the naturalization period from 5 to 10 years, particularly for Turkish nationals, breaches the “standstill clause” of the Ankara Agreement. While 10 years is the maximum allowed under the European Convention on Nationality, member states are obliged to facilitate integration — not restrict it. Moving to the maximum term contradicts that principle.

Economic and Social Impact
A 10-year naturalization period undermines the Netherlands’ goal of attracting and retaining highly skilled migrants. It risks driving talent to other EU countries with faster naturalization routes, leading to potential brain drain. Additionally, denying political and civic rights for a decade fosters alienation rather than integration.


This proposal conflicts with the values the Netherlands aims to promote — equality, inclusion, and integration. It discourages engagement and sends the wrong signal to highly skilled migrants who contribute through taxes, innovation, and community involvement. Extending the period is counterproductive to the country’s social and economic development.