Significant Drop in British Arrivals
A recent report released by Statistics Netherlands (CBS) indicates a substantial decline in the number of British nationals choosing to relocate to the Netherlands since the United Kingdom's departure from the European Union. The figures for 2024 show that British immigration to the Netherlands has fallen to less than half of the levels observed in 2019, highlighting a clear impact of Brexit on cross-border movement.
Pre-Brexit Trends and Post-Brexit Realities
Prior to Brexit, immigration from the United Kingdom to the Netherlands was on an upward trajectory. However, the landscape shifted dramatically after the UK officially left the EU in 2020. British citizens intending to reside in the Netherlands after January 1, 2021, no longer fall under previous agreements with EU member states. Consequently, the Dutch Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) now classifies British nationals as 'third-country nationals,' meaning they require specific permits for residence and work, similar to individuals from non-EU, non-EEA, or non-Swiss countries.
Key Migration Figures
According to the CBS report, approximately 3,000 British people moved to the Netherlands in 2024. This stands in stark contrast to the 6,500 British nationals who immigrated to the country in 2019, representing a reduction of more than 50%. The report also notes a decrease in the number of British nationals returning to the UK from the Netherlands, with 2,200 doing so in 2024, nearly one thousand fewer than in 2019. The net migration (immigration minus emigration) from the UK to the Netherlands in 2024 was recorded at 790.
New Regulatory Framework and Challenges
The change in status for British nationals has introduced new requirements for those wishing to move to the Netherlands. Individuals arriving after December 31, 2020, must apply for a regular work and residence permit. While options such as the highly skilled migrant scheme, European Blue Card, and family reunification permits remain available under certain conditions, the application processes are now more complex. Data from Eurostat indicates that the Netherlands has issued a significant number of orders for British nationals to leave, though actual deportations have been relatively low.
5 Comments
KittyKat
Good. Less pressure on housing.
Eugene Alta
This report confirms the significant impact of Brexit on migration trends between the UK and the Netherlands. While it's tougher for individuals, it also means a more regulated and perhaps more predictable flow of people.
Loubianka
This hurts cultural exchange so much.
Noir Black
Another sad Brexit consequence.
anubis
The article highlights the increased complexity for British nationals, which deters many from moving. However, it also ensures that those who do relocate are serious about the new legal requirements.