Surprisingly, according to statistics gathered by Eurostat, the Netherlands has taken a firm stand against immigration, ordering the expulsion of 275 citizens of the United Kingdom in the first nine months of 2023. This measure represents a dramatic change in the dynamics of immigration, beyond that of any other EU member state.

The numbers show a wider trend with 1,040 British people receiving orders to leave Schengen area nations within the same period. 

A significant 275 of them were expressly told to leave the Netherlands. The data highlights the scope of this immigration movement and is gathered from national authorities in the EU, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland.

Factors and Concerns

When it comes to families, the age distribution of individuals forced to leave the Netherlands raises some serious concerns. One hundred and thirty-one people—those 35 years of age and over, 125 people in the 18–34 age range, and fifteen people under eighteen—were told to leave. 

Nevertheless, the numbers don't go into detail about the rationale behind these directives, leaving open doubts about the thinking behind the choices.

The data is vague on whether the orders were connected to denied applications for residency or work permits, overstays, or involvement in major crimes, which adds to the ambiguity. 

There are additional questions raised by the lack of information regarding the number of people who have already departed the country without formally deregistering.

Brexit Fallout: Impact on Residence Permits

Considering that over half (48%) of the decisions resulting in departure orders were connected to the denial of applications for residence permits under the terms of the Brexit agreement, it is clear how intricately Brexit and the immigration movement are related. 

This mostly affected those who had either exceeded the deadline or were not residents of the Netherlands as of January 1, 2021.

Interestingly, the data from Eurostat clarifies that 45,000 British nationals who were residents of the Netherlands before December 31, 2020, have to apply for new residence cards under the terms of the separation agreement. After this date, those who arrived had to deal with the procedure of getting regular work licences and residency permits.

The recent immigration decision fits into a larger European pattern; between January and September 2023, nearly 324,000 non-EU citizens will be required to leave EU nations. With almost 102,000 such orders, France recorded the most, highlighting the rulings' broad ramifications throughout the continent.

FAQS

Why were 275 citizens of the United Kingdom told to leave the Netherlands?

The information that is now accessible does not specify the precise causes of the departure orders. Rejected applications for a work visa or residence, overstays, or engagement in major crimes are possible contributing reasons, nevertheless.

Were there similar immigration moves in other EU countries?

Indeed, according to a report by Eurostat, more than 324,000 non-EU individuals received orders to leave EU nations between January and September 2023. With more than 102,000 such orders, France reported the most.