Verlenging naturalisatietermijnen

Reactie

Vraag1

I support the proposal to extend the residence requirement for naturalisation from 5 to 10 years. This is a necessary and forward-looking step that delivers significant economic and social benefits.

Economic benefits:
A longer term encourages immigrants to invest more in language, work skills, and social networks, leading to higher productivity and lower integration costs. It increases the likelihood of stable labour market participation and sustained tax contributions, while reducing pressure on social welfare. It also discourages short-term residency aimed purely at citizenship, allowing greater focus on permanent, committed residents. Those who stay for 10 years or more are generally more anchored, making it more likely they will buy homes, start businesses, and contribute economically. Furthermore, the government can better spread the costs associated with full citizenship rights, creating more space for sound fiscal policy.

Social benefits:
A longer residence period strengthens social cohesion by allowing immigrants more time to become familiar with the language, culture, norms, and the rule of law. This promotes integration and mutual understanding. It also gives additional time to develop knowledge of democratic institutions and community organisations, ensuring that new citizens are better prepared and more active participants. It prevents premature or symbolic citizenship and increases public trust in the naturalisation process. Moreover, it provides the government with more opportunities to assess genuine social commitment, contributing to a more stable and engaged population.

Conclusion:
Extending the naturalization requirement to 10 years strengthens both the economic and social foundations of the Netherlands and contributes to a sustainable and credible immigration and integration policy.