The Dutch government has officially submitted a request to opt out of the European Union’s migration policies, sparking political debate and raising questions for internationals residing in the Netherlands. Far-right leader Geert Wilders, whose Party for Freedom (PVV) leads the ruling coalition, referred to the move as a “mini-Nexit.” This term draws from the idea of “Nexit,” or the Netherlands leaving the EU, similar to Brexit. A “mini-Nexit” refers to a partial withdrawal from specific EU policies – in this case, migration and asylum – while remaining part of the EU.
The development is significant for internationals living in the Netherlands, as it could lead to future changes in the country’s broader immigration policies. Wilders celebrated the request as a victory for Dutch sovereignty during a parliamentary debate, acknowledging potential legal hurdles but viewing it as a shift in the country’s political direction.
Asylum and Migration Minister Marjolein Faber, who sent the official letter to the European Commission, stressed the importance of the Netherlands regaining control over its asylum policies. “We must take charge of our own asylum policy again,” she stated. The minister said the request aims to reduce the pressure migration places on public services like housing, healthcare, and education. The move raises concerns for internationals about how future changes might affect residency or work permits, especially for non-EU nationals, even though the immediate impact remains uncertain.
The Hague talks, Brussels balks
The European Commission was quick to express skepticism about the Dutch request, noting that opting out of EU migration rules would require a treaty change – something highly complex and politically sensitive. As it stands, the current EU treaties bind all member states to adhere to the union’s migration and asylum policies.
In her letter to EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson, Faber acknowledged that an opt-out could only be achieved if EU treaties were amended, a process that is not on the horizon. The European Commission’s spokesperson reiterated that the recently adopted EU Migration and Asylum Pact would remain in effect for the Netherlands and all other member states.
Nexit, but not quite
While the Dutch opt-out request focuses primarily on asylum policy, internationals and expats may still have concerns about potential broader immigration changes. Currently, the request is unlikely to impact work visas, residency permits, or the status of EU nationals living in the Netherlands. However, the government’s emphasis on reducing migration could signal future tightening of overall immigration policies.
For now, skilled workers, international students, and professionals in key sectors like technology, research, and education remain vital to the Dutch economy. Moreover, any major policy shifts would require a lengthy legal and political process at both the domestic and EU levels.
However, expats and internationals, especially those from non-EU countries, should stay updated on potential treaty changes or political decisions that could impact immigration regulations.
Dutch defy EU pact, but face uphill battle
The Dutch opt-out request comes in response to the EU’s Migration Pact, which seeks to create a system of “mandatory solidarity” among member states. Countries must choose between three options for handling asylum seekers: relocating a set number of people, paying €20,000 for each rejected asylum seeker, or providing financial or operational support.
Earlier this year, the Dutch government indicated that it would opt to pay the financial contribution rather than take on more asylum seekers. The new coalition, led by Prime Minister Dick Schoof and including Wilders’ PVV, promised to create the “strictest asylum regime ever,” reinforcing the country’s focus on limiting migration.
The opt-out request, which has been anticipated since July, mirrors the coalition’s tough approach. However, the European Commission’s opposition and the need for a treaty amendment cast doubt on its chances of success in the near term.
