Verlenging naturalisatietermijnen

Reactie

Vraag1

"Extending Naturalization to 10 Years – A Step in the Wrong Direction"

The proposal to extend the naturalization period in the Netherlands from 5 to 10 years is not just a bureaucratic adjustment—it is a decision that will have lasting economic, social, and human consequences.

The Netherlands, like much of Europe, faces the challenge of an aging population. Our economy depends on a steady influx of skilled workers, international students, and young families—many of whom come here with hopes of building a life, contributing to society, and eventually becoming full citizens.

Highly skilled migrants are not a burden—they are a **driving force of innovation and growth**. They are helping fill labor shortages, supporting our tax base, and ensuring the sustainability of our healthcare, education, and pension systems. **Delaying their full inclusion by doubling the naturalization period sends the wrong message**: that their contributions are welcome, but their belonging is not.

This policy change would make the Netherlands less attractive in a competitive global landscape. Countries like Canada, Germany, and Portugal are actively encouraging skilled migrants with faster paths to citizenship. Why would someone choose the Netherlands if they must wait 10 years to be fully accepted?

Beyond the economic impact, there is the issue of **fairness**. Thousands of migrants already living and integrating in the Netherlands—many of whom are halfway through the process—planned their futures based on the current 5-year rule. To shift the goalposts now would be a breach of trust and a deeply unfair move.

Let us also be clear: extending the timeline doesn’t promote better integration—it prolongs uncertainty. It keeps people in limbo, delaying their ability to participate fully in civic life, feel a sense of security, and invest in their future here.

Citizenship is more than a legal status. It’s a symbol of belonging, of mutual commitment between an individual and their country. We should be facilitating that process—not making it harder.

Let us remain a country that rewards contribution, encourages integration, and upholds fairness.
Extending naturalization to 10 years would be a step backward. Let’s choose progress.

Thank you.