Verlenging naturalisatietermijnen

Reactie

Vraag1

I strongly oppose the proposed extension of the naturalisation period from 5 years to 10 years.

I have been living in the Netherlands since July 2022 on a Highly Skilled Migrant (kennismigrant) visa. I pay high taxes and actively contribute to the Dutch economy through my work and social integration. Extending the waiting period to 10 years would unfairly penalize people like me who are here legally, employed, and already investing in the Netherlands’ future.

Citizenship is not just a formality – it provides long-term stability, security, and a stronger sense of belonging. People who come to the Netherlands to work, support themselves, and contribute should be encouraged to integrate and build their lives here, not be forced into uncertainty for a decade.

It is also important to note that highly skilled migrants often do not benefit from social assistance or tax-funded support in the same way that asylum seekers or others may. Instead, we contribute significantly through taxes and social premiums without equivalent access to certain benefits. Denying us the right to naturalise after 5 years would create an unjust imbalance, discouraging talent from choosing the Netherlands as a long-term home.

The existing 5-year term strikes a fair balance between proving commitment to the Netherlands and allowing newcomers to build stable, integrated lives. Extending it to 10 years risks alienating the very people who contribute most to the economy, innovation, and society.

For these reasons, I urge the government to maintain the current 5-year naturalisation period.

Sincerely,
Verushka Naidoo