Minister Van Weel Increases Return Support for Syrians

Due to the changed security situation in Syria and the amendment of the country policy, it is expected that fewer asylum applications from Syrians will qualify for approval by the IND. With the increase in return support, the cabinet aims to encourage Syrians to return to their country of origin. More departures of Syrians should, among other things, create more space in asylum reception. Returning Syrians can also contribute to the rebuilding of the country.

Minister Van Weel, Asylum and Migration: ‘With the temporary increase in return support for Syrians, the cabinet is focusing more on voluntary return. At the same time, good cooperation with the Syrian transitional government is important for enabling forced returns in the long term. I will continue to work on this in the coming period.’

Syrians who resided in the Netherlands before October 1, 2025, are eligible for reintegration support worth €5000 per adult and €2500 per minor. Syrians wishing to take advantage of this can apply between November 17, 2025, and January 1, 2026, via the application form on the website of the Return and Departure Service. Currently, Syrians receive €2800 per adult and €1650 per minor.

A good relationship with the Syrian authorities is crucial for more voluntary returns and ultimately forced returns. Ongoing discussions are therefore held with the authorities. On October 20, the Secretary of State for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation visited Damascus. There, she spoke with the Syrian transitional government to promote return and combat irregular migration by strengthening border management in Syria and improving the socioeconomic situation in Syria.