On 13 September the Netherlands government presented its programme, following the earlier May 2024 coalition agreement. The plan includes significant restrictions on asylum and migration.

A number of measures will affect third country nationals (TCNs) residing in the Netherlands:

• Stricter naturalisation requirements
  The government is tightening the requirements for obtaining Dutch citizenship. The language requirement is being raised to level B1, and the waiting period for naturalisation is extended from five to ten years. Additionally, the government aims for new citizens to renounce their original nationality, where possible, unless specific exceptions apply.
• Selective and targeted labour migration policy
  The government seeks to reduce labour migration and introduces strict measures to limit low-wage employment and combat poor working conditions. Residents of the Netherlands, including family migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers likely to obtain permits, will be encouraged to participate in the Dutch labour market.
• Greater control over international student influx and limits on the 'Anglicisation' of higher education
  The government aims to better regulate the influx of international students and restrict the "Anglicisation" of Dutch higher education. Universities and colleges are tasked with coordinating the intake of international students, strengthening the role of the Dutch language, and expanding the use of fixed intake numbers.
• Self-reliance and participation of Ukrainian refugees
  The government continues to focus on the self-reliance and integration of Ukrainian refugees. Since summer 2024, it has initiated the phase-out of living allowances for refugees with sufficient income from employment. Refugees are also expected to contribute to the costs of their accommodation when possible.

Additionally, the restrictions on asylum are significant. The government declared an ‘asylum crisis’, allowing for temporary measures to manage the influx of asylum seekers without the immediate approval of both parliamentary chambers. Approval is expected at a later stage.

Permit holders may only bring family members to the country if they have held their residence status for at least 2 years, have adequate housing, and a "stable and sufficient income". There will also be a limitation on family reunification for adult children.

Additionally, repeated asylum applications will be more rigorously scrutinised for new facts and circumstances. The introduction of the asylum crisis law also modifies existing regulations: the Dispersal Act will be withdrawn, there will be a suspension on new asylum applications, reception facilities will be downgraded, and individuals without the right to stay may be forcibly removed.

Furthermore, the rule that asylum seekers automatically receive a permanent residence permit after 5 years is abolished. Asylum seekers who have been in the Netherlands for 5 years or more may still be required to return to their country of origin when it is deemed safe.

Finally, the Dutch government plans to formally request an exemption from standard EU asylum rules, known as an "opt-out." Border controls will also be tightened to enhance oversight.

Read more about the government programme with the plans for the upcoming cabinet term.