Verlenging naturalisatietermijnen

Reactie

Vraag1

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am a highly skilled migrant who has been living and working in the Netherlands for three years. I would like to express my concern regarding the plan to extend the naturalisation period from 5 to 10 years.

The goal of promoting integration is fully understandable. However, integration is not a matter of time but of participation. Highly skilled migrants already show strong integration through employment, tax contributions, Dutch language learning, and community involvement. Extending the waiting time would not enhance integration; it would only delay inclusion and create uncertainty for people who already contribute to Dutch society.

Economically, the proposal could make the Netherlands less attractive for international talent. After five years, most highly skilled migrants lose the 30% ruling and only then qualify for permanent residence. If citizenship is postponed for another five years, many will consider moving to other EU countries such as Germany or Portugal, which offer citizenship in 5–6 years with better fiscal conditions. This could lead to a talent drain, especially in sectors like tech, finance, engineering, and healthcare.

Dutch companies depend on international professionals and invest significant resources in relocation, training, and integration. Longer uncertainty over citizenship may increase turnover, recruitment costs, and reduce the Netherlands’ competitiveness as an innovation hub.

Instead of doubling the residence requirement, the government could strengthen integration criteria — such as higher Dutch language levels or proven civic participation — to ensure genuine connection without discouraging skilled residents.

The current 5-year rule offers a fair and balanced framework for integration and inclusion. Extending it risks pushing away the very people the Netherlands aims to attract.

I kindly ask the government to maintain the existing 5-year period.

Sincerely,
AA