CBS: Immigration down again last year, especially asylum seekers and skilled migrants

The Netherlands experienced a decline in immigration last year compared to 2024, according to recent data released by the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS). The number of migrants arriving in the country dropped by approximately 8,000, marking the third consecutive year of declining immigration figures. This trend contrasts sharply with the period between 2006 and 2022, during which the number of immigrants increased almost every year, reaching a peak in 2022 due to the war in Ukraine. Last year’s numbers show a notable decrease in both asylum seekers and family reunification migrants coming from outside the European Union.

According to the CBS, nearly 35,000 asylum seekers arrived in the Netherlands in 2025, a significant drop of more than 4,000 compared to the previous year. Asylum seekers accounted for about 11 percent of all immigrants in 2025. The reduction in asylum seekers is attributed primarily to a backlog in processing applications rather than a decrease in the number of applicants. Many individuals awaiting a decision on their asylum claims remain housed in temporary accommodations until they can move into permanent housing. However, this process has been complicated by the housing shortage and ongoing debates regarding priority access to housing for asylum seekers.

The issue of accommodation shortages became particularly prominent earlier this year when Prime Minister Jetten referred to an "asylum crisis," noting that many reception centers were full. The delay in relocating individuals to permanent housing has led to prolonged stays in temporary shelters. The government has proposed the Spreading Act, designed to distribute accommodation more evenly across the country, thereby reducing the need for new emergency facilities. Despite this initiative, most municipalities have not fully adhered to the requirements outlined in the act.

Family reunification migrants from outside the EU also saw a substantial decline, dropping from around 26,000 in 2022 to approximately 14,000 in 2025. This decrease was especially pronounced among Indian migrants, along with those of Turkish, Russian, Chinese, and South African backgrounds. Overall, 309,000 people migrated to the Netherlands in 2025, with half of them coming from outside the EU and the European Economic Area. About 37 percent of these migrants came from within the EU and the EEA, while 14 percent already held Dutch nationality, often having returned after living abroad for some time.

The challenges faced by the Netherlands in managing its migration policies have sparked discussions and actions at both local and national levels. Recently, the city of Stadskanaal stepped in again to assist in accommodating asylum seekers from Ter Apel overnight. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Immigration and Integration has sought explanations regarding the shortage of accommodation spaces in various municipalities. These efforts highlight the complex interplay between policy implementation, resource allocation, and the practical realities of housing availability.

Looking ahead, the situation remains fluid as the government continues to grapple with the implications of its migration policies. With the ongoing debate surrounding the distribution of resources and the management of asylum seeker accommodations, the focus will likely shift towards finding sustainable solutions that address both immediate needs and long-term planning. The upcoming months could see further developments in how the Netherlands manages its immigration landscape, balancing humanitarian obligations with domestic constraints.