News item | 17-01-2025 | 09:53
The Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND) may now withdraw the asylum permit of a minor if he or she is convicted of a serious public order offence. Minister Faber of Asylum and Migration will adjust the rules for this within two weeks.
Until now, a minor could only lose his or her license if he or she had been convicted under adult law. The sentence also had to be at least six months. Due to the amendment of the Aliens Circular, these restrictions are now lifted, allowing the IND to make an individual assessment based on the type of offense and the duration of the stay.
“Especially after the incident in Helmond, I am completely fed up with the fact that we cannot withdraw the asylum permit in such cases,”
says Minister Faber.
“That is why we are now adjusting the rules within two weeks. It must be clear that we do not like criminal asylum seekers here.”
Serve sentence
If asylum seekers are convicted, they must serve their sentences before being deported. During detention, the Repatriation and Departure Service works as much as possible on return. If there is a risk that someone will not return, immigration detention can be imposed after detention.
Return
The return of foreigners convicted of criminal offenses (VRIS persons) also had a very high priority in 2024. Where possible, they leave the Netherlands immediately after their sentence. In 2024, this was successful in 960 out of 1220 cases (almost 80%). These are total figures and do not only apply to minors.