Will the Netherlands Integrate a Point System Labor Migration Policy?

For years, the government has struggled to effectively manage labor migration in the Netherlands, but it’s time for a more thoughtful approach. According to the Migration Advisory Council, an independent body advising the government, new criteria are needed to reduce the recruitment of low-cost labor from outside Europe. Employers and wealthier individuals have largely benefited from labor migration, while society bears many of the costs.

“Employers generally reap the benefits, while society bears the burdens,” says Monique Kremer, chair of the advisory council, Adviesraad Migratie, tells NOS. “We need policies that work for everyone.”

Kremer points out the serious issues labor migrants face, including poor housing and being dismissed when they fall ill, leading to significant homelessness.

Rethinking Labor Migration

The council believes current policies are too focused on economic growth, neglecting societal and ecological needs. They suggest adopting a points system for migrant admissions that considers both economic contributions and broader impacts.

Most labor migrants find work in sectors like horticulture and meat processing, despite a growing demand in healthcare and energy. Without better oversight, Kremer warns, “we risk becoming a low-wage economy.”

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As aging populations in Europe grow, it will be harder to attract staff from countries like Poland and Romania, making non-EU labor migration vital for the Netherlands’ economy.

Implementing a Points System

While the government can’t fully control EU labor migration, it can impose stricter criteria for non-EU migrants, such as salary, occupation, and housing availability. This would help regulate labor based on the economy’s needs.

Improving EU Labor Conditions

To manage EU labor migration, the council suggests improving wages and working conditions in jobs like farming, which could attract more local workers. A ban on temporary workers in sectors like meat processing, similar to what Germany did, could also help create more permanent and fairer jobs.