News item | 04-07-2025 | 15:15
The number of people migrating to the Netherlands fell further in 2024. The wider trend that has been visible for several years continues. The cabinet has sent the fifth edition of the ‘State of Migration’ to the Lower House. It contains facts and figures about migration developments to the Netherlands and internationally.
In 2024, around 314,000 people came to the Netherlands, which amounts to a decrease of 6% compared to 2023. These migrants especially come here to work, to study or for their families.
Fewer asylum applications, less study migration, more departure
Compared to 2023, the number of first asylum applications has fallen by 16%. The number of first asylum applications has also decreased in the EU, by 13 percent. Despite the decrease in the number of asylum applications, the pressure on the reception remains high, which is partly because 26% of the COA residents were a permit holder at the end of 2024.
The number of residents in the Netherlands with EU nationality has risen by 6% compared to 2023. The largest group had Polish nationality, followed by the German and Bulgarian nationality.
At the end of 2024, 123,210 Ukrainian people sought protection in the Netherlands, an increase compared to 2023.
A slight decrease is visible in the number of applications for people who come to study here. The focus was also on the enforcement of public order. In 2024, 18% more undesirable declarations and heavy entry bans were imposed than in 2023. Furthermore, the efforts to improve cooperation with other countries effects effect. In 2024, 4% more people with the help of the return and departure service were demonstrably left from the Netherlands, with the forced departure increased by 16%.
About the state of migration
The state of migration gives an overview of how many people come to the Netherlands and leave. But also information about childcare, housing and integration. Migration is worldwide. That is why the state also offers information about migration in an international and European perspective.
The State of Migration is a joint production of the Ministries of Asylum and Migration, Social Affairs and Employment, Justice and Security, Foreign Affairs, Housing and Spatial Planning and the Implementing Organizations involved.