Verlenging naturalisatietermijnen

Reactie

Vraag1

I object to the proposal to increase the naturalization period from five years to ten years.

Extending the residency requirement will not enhance integration. On the contrary, it risks delaying it, as individuals may feel less incentive to learn the language and actively participate in society if they must wait an additional five years before being considered for naturalization.

This change would also reduce the attractiveness of the Netherlands for highly skilled migrants. Many professionals weigh naturalization policies when choosing where to build their careers and families. A ten-year waiting period places the Netherlands at a disadvantage compared to other countries that encourage faster integration and provide clearer pathways to citizenship.

Furthermore, residents who have lived in the Netherlands for five continuous years, paid taxes, and contributed to their communities have already demonstrated commitment and responsibility. At that point, they should be given the opportunity to participate fully in society, including through the right to vote and representation in policy making.

For these reasons, I believe the proposal is counterproductive. It risks discouraging integration, deterring skilled migrants, and withholding political participation from those who have already shown long-term commitment to Dutch society.