Increase in work permits for asylum seekers amid rising labor market demand

Dutch companies in industries such as hospitality, cleaning, and manufacturing are increasingly employing asylum seekers, as revealed by recent data from the Dutch benefits agency UWV. Over the past year, the number of work permits issued to asylum seekers has quadrupled, reaching 7,370 by October compared to 1,840 in the entire previous year.

The sharp increase follows a December 2023 ruling by the Dutch Council of State, which allowed asylum seekers awaiting residency decisions for over six months to work year-round, provided they have a citizen service number (BSN) and their employer secures the necessary permit.

According to UWV director Judith Duveen, asylum seekers are filling essential roles in the labor market. "More employers are realizing the potential of this group. Asylum seekers are highly motivated and eager to work, which aids their integration into Dutch society while they gain experience," Duveen said.

Approximately 20 percent of permits granted since December 2023 were for cleaning positions, 10 percent for temporary jobs, 10 percent for production roles, and 8 percent each for hospitality and warehouse work. Most of these are entry-level jobs paying minimum wage, which can be challenging for skilled workers with professional qualifications.

Despite the surge in permits, delays persist in processing BSN registrations, with over 18,000 asylum seekers still waiting as of October. To address this, the Central Agency for the Reception of Asylum Seekers (COA) is piloting programs to expedite processing in some municipalities.

Employers have also faced delays in permit approvals, though Duveen noted improvements. "We’ve reduced the processing time from 32 days to just a few days for many applications, provided the paperwork is in order," she said.

Skilled asylum seekers might face additional language-related challenges. Youssef Salameh, a 33-year-old Syrian with a master’s degree in IT risk management, has struggled to find work despite his qualifications, as he told de Telegraaf. Employers have cited his lack of fluency in Dutch and the distance from his current residence in Brummen to major urban centers. "I’ve completed Dutch language courses, but fluency comes with practice. Employers tell me I’m intelligent and qualified but still turn me away," he said.