Asylum and Migration Minister Marjolein Faber is considering a phased implementation of the new asylum law, acknowledging concerns about the short preparation time and potential strain on implementing organizations. This announcement comes in response to numerous parliamentary questions regarding the bill.

Faber aims for the law to take effect as soon as possible, but she also recognizes the need to address the worries of organizations like the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND), which anticipates increased workloads due to changes such as the reduction of temporary residence permits for asylum seekers from five to three years and the abolishment of permanent residence permits.

The possibility of delaying certain aspects of the law was mentioned in the explanatory memorandum, but Faber has consistently emphasized the urgency of its full implementation. Her recent criticism of the large number of written questions from parliamentarians underscores her desire to expedite the process.

PVV leader Geert Wilders has also voiced his frustration with the perceived slow pace of decision-making on asylum matters. Several important bills, including the asylum emergency measures law, the reintroduction of the two-status system, and the withdrawal of the Distribution Act, are still awaiting parliamentary approval.

Political support for the legislation remains uncertain, particularly in the Senate, where the coalition lacks a majority. While support from parties like Forum for Democracy, SGP, and JA21 is expected, it is insufficient to secure passage. The CDA holds a crucial position and could potentially provide the necessary votes, provided certain technical and substantive improvements are made to the bill.

Faber appears to be receptive to concerns raised by NSC and CDA, stating that the exact timing of implementation remains unclear and will depend on the legislative process.

Furthermore, Faber maintains that her legislation aligns with the European Asylum and Migration Pact, which has a deadline of June 12, 2026, but she does not want to delay her own laws in anticipation of the pact’s full implementation.

Despite criticism regarding the consultation process with advisory bodies such as the Council for the Judiciary, the Bar Association, the Advisory Council on Migration, and the Administrative Jurisdiction Division of the Council of State, Faber insists that a careful legislative procedure has been followed. She attributes the “confidential” marking on a consultation invitation to a mistake.