The Netherlands restricts refugee rights in obtaining asylum and family reunification

In the Netherlands, a law has been enacted that changes the system of asylum provision and significantly complicates family reunification for some refugees. The new rules will come into effect in the summer of 2026. This is reported by NL Times.

Asylum in the Netherlands: how the new system will work

The reform introduces a two-tier system for asylum seekers. From now on, they will be divided into two categories:

• Status A - for those fleeing personal persecution (political, religious, ethnic, or due to orientation)

• Status B - for people leaving the country due to war, violence, or climate threats.

The first group is granted a three-year residence permit, but without the possibility of obtaining permanent status. For the second group, stricter restrictions are introduced, especially regarding family transportation.

Family reunification in the Netherlands: what restrictions are being introduced

The most significant changes concern refugees with status B. New requirements are being introduced for them:

• waiting at least 2 years before applying

• having a stable income

• confirmed housing for the entire family.

These conditions significantly complicate the family reunification process, especially for those who have just received asylum.

The new rules will come into effect on June 12, 2026, and will apply not only to new applications but also to those already submitted. The law will be synchronized with the overall European changes within the EU migration policy.

At the same time, the Senate rejected the proposal to criminalize illegal residence. The government explains the reform as a necessity to reduce the burden on the asylum system and regulate the rules for migrants.

The law does not directly affect Ukrainians with temporary protection; however, it demonstrates the overall trend towards tightening migration policy in Europe.

It should be reminded that Ukrainians who fled Russian aggression to the Netherlands can obtain special status and support from the country's authorities in the future.