Netherlands to change rules for refugees: can Ukrainians stay.

The Dutch government announced a new strategy for Ukrainian refugees

The Dutch government has reported the implementation of a new strategy for Ukrainian refugees who actively contribute to the development of the country. According to this initiative, such refugees will be able to remain in the Netherlands after March 2026. Minister for Asylum Affairs Marjolein Faber presented this in a letter to the lower house of parliament.

According to De Telegraaf, the new approach involves granting a regular residence permit to Ukrainians who work and pay taxes. Faber emphasized that this status should remain in effect as long as a person stays in the Netherlands and actively contributes to society and the economy.

The goal of the new strategy

This initiative is designed to avoid overloading the system. The temporary protection term for Ukrainian refugees in EU countries ends in March 2026, and the future of the war in Ukraine remains in question. Thus, the Netherlands wants to avoid a situation where all 120,000 Ukrainians simultaneously apply for asylum.

Plans of Ukrainian refugees

According to the latest survey, three-quarters of Ukrainians living in the Netherlands plan to stay in the country for the foreseeable future. The proportion of those considering returning to Ukraine, should safety be restored, is about half. The government is also developing programs that encourage voluntary return, including specialized courses for participation in the reconstruction of Ukraine.

Example for other EU countries

The Netherlands is taking an example from other EU countries that have already introduced similar mechanisms. For instance, in Poland, Ukrainians can obtain a 3-year residence permit, while Austria, the Czech Republic, and Romania provide long-term permits for individuals who work full-Time.

Minister Faber emphasized that this initiative meets Ukraine's needs for rebuilding the country through its own citizens. She also stressed the importance of a balanced approach to integrating Ukrainians and their potential return to their homeland.

Enhancing Eurointegration between Ukraine and the Netherlands

Ukraine and the Netherlands are strengthening their relations and creating a new platform for Eurointegration.