Over the years, migration from India to the Netherlands has surged significantly, with Indian nationals now becoming one of the largest groups of foreign residents in the country. Recent statistics from Statistics Netherlands (CBS) reveal a remarkable trend—over 56% of Indian migrants who arrived in 2019 have remained in the Netherlands for over four years, showcasing a growing inclination among Indian nationals to establish long-term roots in the country.

This increase in Indian migration is driven by various factors, including work, family reunification, and educational pursuits. Let’s explore the key reasons behind this rise in migration and delve deeper into the evolving migration patterns of Indian nationals in the Netherlands.

Key Trends in Indian Migration to the Netherlands

In 2024, more than 9,000 Indians arrived in the Netherlands, marking a continued rise in migration from India to this European nation. The country has become a popular destination for Indian migrants, many of whom are likely to remain in the Netherlands for the long term. Migration numbers from India have been consistently rising since 2020, with a notable surge in the years following the pandemic.

In 2019, data showed that over 56% of Indian migrants who had settled in the Netherlands four years earlier remained in the country, a significant increase compared to 33% in 2011. This uptick in long-term stays highlights the shifting dynamics of migration, as Indian nationals are increasingly choosing the Netherlands not just as a temporary destination, but as a place to call home.

Reasons Behind the Surge: Family, Work, and Education

The primary motivations behind migration from India to the Netherlands have evolved over time. According to the most recent data, family-related reasons have become the leading cause for Indian migration. In 2023, approximately 45% of Indian migrants reported that they came to the Netherlands for family reunification or to start a family.

The work-related migration rate also remains high, accounting for 40% of the Indian migrants. Historically, the number of Indian migrants moving for employment purposes was larger, but in recent years, family migration has taken precedence.

Another significant factor contributing to migration from India to the Netherlands is education. Around 15% of Indian nationals who migrated in 2023 cited education as their primary reason for relocation. However, educational migration numbers have decreased in comparison to past years, where a larger share of migrants came for work rather than study.

The Changing Migration Landscape: A Closer Look at Demographics

Indian migration to the Netherlands has drastically changed in the last decade. Before 2005, migration from India was relatively low, with no more than 1,000 Indian nationals arriving each year. However, between 2005 and 2020, the numbers surged as Indians sought better career opportunities, higher education, and family reunification in the Netherlands.

The COVID-19 pandemic temporarily disrupted migration trends, but since 2022, Indian migration has been on the rise again, with net migration reaching nearly 11,000 in that year. Despite the increase, emigration from the Netherlands also rose in recent years, suggesting that while many Indians are settling in the country, others are opting to leave. In 2024, 5,411 Indians left the Netherlands, while the Indian population still grew by 4,000.

Regional Distribution of Indian Migrants in the Netherlands

The municipality of Amstelveen has become the focal point for Indian migrants, hosting the largest community in the Netherlands, with approximately 68,000 Indian residents. This municipality boasts the highest density of Indian residents, with around 6,000 Indians per 1,000 inhabitants.

Other popular areas for Indian migrants include Uithoorn, Eindhoven, and Almere, where large Indian communities have settled. Conversely, provinces such as Groningen, Friesland, and Limburg report fewer Indian residents, indicating that while migration from India is widespread, certain regions have seen a higher concentration of migrants.

A Shift Toward Long-Term Residency

What’s most striking about Indian migration to the Netherlands in recent years is the growing tendency of Indian nationals to settle in the country for the long term. This shift toward long-term stays is supported by the Dutch government’s pro-immigration policies, which have made it easier for skilled workers and families to establish themselves in the Netherlands.

The trend of staying longer in the Netherlands has been increasing, with more than half of Indian migrants from 2019 choosing to remain in the country after four years, compared to only a third in 2011. This indicates that India’s migration patterns to the Netherlands are evolving from temporary stays to longer-term residency.

Impact of Immigration Policies and Opportunities for Indian Migrants

The Dutch immigration policies play a significant role in attracting skilled workers, families, and students from India. The country offers a highly developed labor market, numerous opportunities for skilled workers, and a diverse social environment that appeals to migrants from India.

Work permits, study visas, and family reunification programs are among the top reasons why Indian nationals choose the Netherlands as their destination. The Dutch government’s emphasis on highly skilled migrants and innovative technology sectors has helped boost the country’s appeal to professionals from India, especially in the fields of IT, engineering, and healthcare.

For many Indians, the family reunification process in the Netherlands is also straightforward, making it easier for those with family ties in the country to join them. Moreover, the Netherlands’ emphasis on multiculturalism and integration programs has made it easier for Indian migrants to feel at home in their new environment.

Why Choose the Netherlands for Long-Term Migration?

The Netherlands offers several advantages that make it an attractive destination for long-term migration:

• High quality of life: The Netherlands consistently ranks high in global quality of life indices, with excellent healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
• Strong economy: The Dutch economy offers stable employment opportunities, particularly for skilled migrants in technology, engineering, and healthcare sectors.
• Multicultural society: The country is known for its tolerant and inclusive environment, making it easier for migrants from India to integrate.
• Educational opportunities: With a wide range of world-class universities and research institutions, the Netherlands continues to be a popular destination for Indian students seeking higher education.

Conclusion

Migration from India to the Netherlands has seen a significant rise over the years, with more Indian nationals choosing to stay in the country for the long term. Family reunification, work opportunities, and the overall quality of life in the Netherlands have made it an increasingly attractive destination for Indian migrants. As more Indian nationals continue to make the Netherlands their home, the country is expected to witness further growth in its Indian diaspora.

For those planning to migrate to the Netherlands, it is essential to stay informed about the various pathways available, including work permits, study visas, and family sponsorship programs. The country’s growing appeal to Indian nationals signifies a promising future for those seeking a new life in the Netherlands.