Immigration to the Netherlands Declined by 17 Percent in 2023
The 2024 State of Migration report indicates that immigration to the Netherlands decreased in 2023 despite a global rise in migration. According to the figures presented by the outgoing cabinet to the House of Representatives, 332,863 people immigrated to the Netherlands last year, which is a 17 percent decline from the previous year.
Rise in Asylum Seekers in 2023
The number of first-time asylum requests in 2023 was over 38,000, marking an 8 percent increase from the previous year. This partially offset the overall decrease in immigration. Additionally, the Netherlands received 110,000 refugees from Ukraine in 2023, an increase of 19,000 compared to 2022.
Statistics Netherlands (CBS) reported a decline in asylum requests during the first quarter of 2024, with only 9,000 first-time applications—a 31 percent decrease compared to the same period the previous year. The coalition government has proposed stricter migration and integration measures, including scrapping the asylum distribution law and limiting family reunification for refugees.
Negative Perception of Migration in the Netherlands
The Netherlands has become less appealing to expats and businesses, primarily due to the negative sentiment towards migration. Most internationals migrate to the Netherlands for work, studies, or personal relationships.
However, planned reductions in the 30 percent tax ruling and limits on the number of English-language courses in Dutch universities may lead to a further decline in migration rates. This could result in fewer highly skilled migrants, potentially harming the Dutch economy.
