Verlenging naturalisatietermijnen

Reactie

Vraag1

I respectfully disagree with the proposal to extend the required residency period for naturalization from 5 years to 10 years.

1. Integration and Belonging
A shorter naturalization period strengthens integration by encouraging newcomers to fully participate in Dutch society as citizens. Extending the period risks creating a large group of residents who are legally present, paying taxes, and contributing to the economy, but who remain excluded from full democratic participation for an unnecessarily long time.

2. Economic Contributions
Highly skilled migrants, international workers, and their families contribute significantly to the Dutch economy. Delaying naturalization creates uncertainty for these residents, which may make the Netherlands less attractive in global competition for talent. This could undermine economic growth and innovation.

3. Family and Social Stability
Citizenship provides stability and a sense of belonging for families, especially children growing up in the Netherlands. Requiring 10 years instead of 5 years would postpone this stability and could have negative effects on children’s identity and social integration.

4. Disproportionate Measure
The current 5-year requirement already provides sufficient time for newcomers to demonstrate commitment to Dutch society, learn the language, and integrate socially and economically. Extending it to 10 years seems disproportionate and risks discouraging people who wish to build their future in the Netherlands.

Conclusion
For these reasons, I urge the government to maintain the current 5-year naturalization period, which balances the goals of integration, fairness, and inclusiveness, while ensuring that the Netherlands remains a welcoming and competitive society.