Verlenging naturalisatietermijnen

Reactie

Vraag1

Dear Sir/Madam,

Subject: Opposition to Extending the Naturalization Period to 10 Years

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposal to extend the naturalization period from five to ten years. Such a measure would make the Netherlands one of the most restrictive countries in the world and could undermine its reputation as an inclusive and forward-thinking society.

Extending the requirement to ten years would discourage skilled migrants from settling in the Netherlands, negatively impacting both the tax base and the broader economy. Skilled migrants make vital contributions to innovation, productivity, and public revenue. Delaying their access to citizenship restricts their full civic participation and may reduce the long-term retention of talented, economically active residents.

Longer waiting periods do not foster better integration. On the contrary, they:

Delay access to rights and responsibilities,

Increase the risk of social exclusion and alienation, and

Create additional administrative burdens for both migrants and government institutions.

The current five-year period provides a fair and effective balance between integration and inclusion.

The Netherlands aims to strengthen key industries such as biotechnology, fintech, and the semiconductor sector — all of which depend heavily on highly skilled migrants. Imposing stricter rules on these professionals could push leading companies, such as ASML, to relocate elsewhere.

Finally, with an aging population, the Netherlands needs young, skilled individuals to sustain its economic and social systems. To remain competitive and compassionate in an increasingly globalized world, the Netherlands must continue to value talent, diversity, and inclusion.