Foreign-born population – 2024 | 16% of the population | Main countries of birth: |
2.9 million, 52% women | Evolution since 2014: +49% | Türkiye (8%), Poland (6%), Suriname (6%) |
International Migration Outlook 2025
In 2024, the Netherlands received 183 000 new immigrants on a long-term or permanent basis (including changes of status and free mobility), ‑6.4% compared to 2023. This figure comprises 47% immigrants benefitting from free mobility, 13% labour migrants, 23% family members (including accompanying family) and 17% humanitarian migrants. Around 22 000 permits were issued to tertiary-level international students and 2 500 to temporary and seasonal labour migrants (excluding intra-EU migration). In addition, 193 000 intra-EU postings were recorded in 2023, an 11% increase compared to 2022. These posted workers are generally on short-term contracts.
Ukraine, Poland and Syria were the top three nationalities of newcomers in 2023. Among the top 15 countries of origin, Syria registered the strongest increase (2 500) and Ukraine the largest decrease (‑66 000) in flows to the Netherlands compared to the previous year.
In 2024, the number of first asylum applicants decreased by ‑17%, to reach around 32 000. The majority of applicants came from Syria (12 000), Iraq (2 200) and Türkiye (1 900). The largest increase since 2023 concerned nationals of Iraq (700) and the largest decrease nationals of Syria (‑1 500). Of the 21 000 decisions taken in 2024, 75% were positive.
Emigration of Dutch citizens to OECD countries decreased by ‑2% in 2023, to 42 000. Approximately 21% of this group migrated to Spain, 18% to Belgium and 13% to Germany.
In December 2024, the Dutch Cabinet approved a comprehensive package of asylum-related measures submitted by the Minister for Asylum and Migration, aimed at minimising pressure on the national asylum system. The package includes limiting the right to family reunification, restricting the eligibility for shelter and financial support for asylum seekers with a low likelihood of receiving protection, and accelerating procedures for nationals of designated “safe countries of origin.” These measures should lead to a more efficient and swift asylum procedure and in turn lead to an increase in the return of rejected asylum seekers. Under the proposed Asylum Emergency Measures Act, the Dutch Government intends to replace permanent asylum residency with fixed-term permits valid for three years subject to periodic review for renewal.
In parallel, in response to ongoing pressures on the asylum reception system, the Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (COA) expanded its temporary accommodation capacity through agreements with municipalities and private partners. However, capacity shortages remain a challenge in early 2025, with plans underway to establish a more sustainable long-term reception framework.
In September 2024, the Dutch Government publicly stated its intention to seek an opt-out from parts of the EU’s Pact on Migration and Asylum, citing concerns about national sovereignty and capacity. Nevertheless, as a signatory, the Netherlands has continued to prepare for the implementation of the regulations, including infrastructure for the new border procedures and screening mechanisms.
In April 2024, the Netherlands abolished its foreign investor scheme, which had allowed third-country nationals to obtain residence permits through high-value economic investments. The scheme had seen very limited uptake since its inception and was considered to offer limited added value.
From 18 November 2023, the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) implemented new provisions associated to the recast of the EU Blue Card Directive. In May 2025, the House of Representatives voted in favour of the bill that implements revised decision periods in the Aliens Law 2000. The House exerted its right of amendment, adding three provisions: evaluation of, minimum salary requirements for and a labour market test for the Blue Card. The Senate is expected to commence proceedings later in 2025.
Dutch authorities have proposed new rules for hiring highly skilled workers through Employer of Record (EOR) arrangements. Key changes include the obligation from the company where the employee actually works to declare recognised sponsorship. In addition, work permits under EOR should be valid for two years only, with no renewals allowed. Finally, EORs must justify the use of their services and meet tougher notification and reporting requirements.
The Netherlands also introduced measures to curb irregular migration and smuggling, including enhanced surveillance and co‑operation with neighbouring countries, investment in digital systems to detect fraud and strengthen border checks.
The government continued to invest in civic integration programmes. In 2024, efforts were made to reinforce language training, job market participation, and civic education for newly arrived third-country nationals under the Civic Integration Act 2021, which mandates tailor-made integration trajectories delivered by municipalities. In 2025, evaluation reports are expected to inform further revisions.
For further information: www.government.nl.
