Developments in and recommendations for integration policies in the Netherlands

Development of a long-term policy for people displaced from Ukraine 

The Dutch government is advancing plans for the long-term reception of people displaced from Ukraine, balancing support for integration in the Netherlands with preparation for voluntary return when conditions allow. 

Under the EU Temporary Protection Directive (TPD), a structured return programme is being developed to help people return safely to Ukraine, with support for reintegration. Participation will require withdrawal of ongoing asylum applications, linking the process to Ukraine’s reconstruction efforts. Simultaneously, a ‘fallback’ option is being prepared for people who may need to remain longer in the Netherlands, which prioritises self-sufficiency, community contribution, and social integration while ensuring access to services. More details are expected in the coming months.  

Changes to protection for TCNs with temporary Ukrainian residence permits 

Third-country nationals (TCNs) with a temporary residence permit in Ukraine, who were displaced to the Netherlands by the ongoing war in Ukraine, have until recently been protected from deportation by a suspension scheme. This scheme is halted as of 4 September, and those under it will gradually lose their rights to reception, to shelter, to health insurance and employment. These individuals are obliged to leave the Netherlands within four weeks. View more details here. 

Recommendations on policies for labour migrants 

The Dutch Social and Economic Council (SER) published a report containing recommendations on protecting labour migrants, many of whom are TCNs. 

The report highlights a need for clarity on where labour migrants are needed in the Netherlands, particularly with reference to essential sectors, and the need to improve working and housing conditions to prevent exploitation. Key recommendations include strengthening enforcement by the Labour Inspectorate and increasing penalties for employers and agencies that break the rules, guaranteeing at least two months of income for low-paid migrant workers - so they are less vulnerable to sudden dismissal-, and promoting robotisation and automation in order to reduce dependency on low-paid labour. 

New housing measures for refugees 

The Dutch government announced measures to ease pressure on the asylum reception system and housing market. The measures are intended to ensure fair access to housing, reduce reliance on temporary solutions, and strengthen the self-reliance of recognised refugees.  

One measure stipulates that people with refugee status must now search for housing under the same conditions as other residents, rather than receiving priority based on status. To support this, the government is promoting new housing models, including shared and flexible accommodation, available to both refugees and others in urgent need. It is also examining how successful initiatives, such as shared housing for single refugees, can be expanded nationally. Learn more here.