Sharp Decline in Asylum Applications in Netherlands

The Netherlands has recorded a significant drop in asylum applications from nationals of so-called "safe countries," including Morocco, during the early months of 2025.

This decline marks a notable shift in migration trends, with Dutch authorities attributing it to improved diplomatic coordination and stricter enforcement policies.

According to data from the Dutch Immigration and Naturalization Service (IND), the number of asylum requests from "safe country" nationals has fallen sharply since December 2024.

Previously averaging over 80 applications per month and exceeding 1,000 annually, figures dropped to just 60 in December before further declining to 40 in both January and February 2025.

This represents a 50% decrease compared to previous years, with Morocco and Tunisia historically ranking among the top sources of asylum seekers with minimal chances of approval.

Analysts suggest that strengthened diplomatic ties between the Netherlands and Morocco have played a crucial role in this trend.

Reports from Dutch media indicate that administrative coordination between the two countries has streamlined deportation processes for rejected asylum seekers, reducing the Netherlands’ appeal as a destination.

In contrast, Algeria—no longer officially classified as a "safe country"—continues to see high rejection rates for its asylum seekers.

For years, asylum seekers from "safe countries," including Moroccans and Tunisians, have been a major concern for Dutch authorities.

Their applications were frequently denied, and while awaiting decisions in asylum centers, they were often linked to security incidents. Reports suggest that individuals from these groups have had higher involvement in "criminal activities or disturbances," adding pressure on Dutch immigration policies.

As the Netherlands tightens its asylum policies, the sharp decline in applications signals a shift in migration dynamics, particularly for nationals from North Africa.