In 2024, approximately 314,000 people came to the Netherlands, which represents a decline of 6% compared to 2023. These migrants primarily come here to work, study, or for family reasons.
Fewer Asylum Applications, Less Study Migration, More Departures
Compared to 2023, the number of first asylum applications decreased by 16%. In the EU, the number of first asylum applications also decreased, by 13 percent. Despite the decline in the number of asylum applications, the pressure on reception remains high, partly because 26% of COA residents were permit holders at the end of 2024.
The number of residents in the Netherlands with an EU nationality increased by 6% compared to 2023. The largest group held Polish nationality, followed by 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 from people coming to study here. Efforts were also made to enforce public order. In 2024, 18% more declarations of undesirability and heavy entry bans were imposed than in 2023. Furthermore, the efforts to improve cooperation with other countries are yielding results. In 2024, 4% more people demonstrably left the Netherlands with the help of the Return and Departure Service, with forced departures increasing by 16%.
About the State of Migration
The State of Migration provides an overview of how many people come to the Netherlands and leave again. It also includes information on reception, housing, and integration. Migration is a global phenomenon. Therefore, the State also provides information on migration from 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 relevant implementing organizations.