Verlenging naturalisatietermijnen

Reactie

Vraag1

The proposed extension of the naturalisation residence requirement from five to ten years may have unintended consequences for individuals who have already built their lives in the Netherlands under the current rules. Many people who moved to the Netherlands relied on the existing five-year pathway to Dutch nationality when making life-changing decisions, including: • Relocating their families and establishing long-term homes. • Committing to careers, businesses, and paying taxes that support the Dutch economy. • Integrating socially and culturally, learning the language, and participating in community life. Extending the naturalisation period without transitional provisions for those already residing in the Netherlands undermines confidence in Dutch governance. People who have invested years of effort, trust, and resources in the country may feel that the rules changed mid-course, potentially prompting them to reconsider their long-term future in the Netherlands. This could lead to a loss of skilled workers, taxpayers, and engaged community members—people who are already contributing significantly to the Dutch economy and society. Other countries provide examples of transitional measures when changing naturalisation rules: • Germany: When the naturalisation residence requirement was extended from eight to ten years, individuals who had already been in Germany for few years could still apply under the previous rule. • Belgium: Maintains a five-year residence requirement and provides exceptions or transitional pathways for those already integrated under the previous law. • Sweden: While the standard requirement is five years, transitional provisions were introduced when the law was amended to ensure fairness to long-term residents. It is recommended that the Netherlands adopt a similar transitional provision, allowing individuals who have already resided in the country for three or more years to continue their naturalisation process under the previous five-year requirement. This would honor the expectations upon which they based their relocation and life decisions, while maintaining the integrity of the naturalization process for future applicants. Such an approach balances the government's goal of meaningful integration with fairness and recognition of the commitment shown by residents who have already invested in the Netherlands.