The Netherlands offers aid of up to 5,000 euros to Syrian citizens who decide to voluntarily return to their country
Starting this Tuesday, Syrian citizens residing in the Netherlands will be able to apply for increased aid for voluntary return to Syria, as part of a temporary program through which the Dutch government aims to relieve pressure on its asylum system. The measure raises the amounts to 5,000€ per adult and 2,500€ per minor, compared to the previous 2,800€ and 1,650€.
The program is exclusively aimed at Syrians who were already living in the country before October 1, 2025, and applications can be submitted until January 1, 2026, via the Return and Departure Service (DT&V) portal.
The Minister of Migration, David van Weel, stated that the goal is to “promote voluntary returns,” reduce overcrowding in reception centers, and allow those who return to contribute to the reconstruction of Syria after the civil war. Van Weel added that cooperation with the Syrian authorities is “essential” for ensuring that returns are safe and sustainable.
Migration pressure is at the center of the Dutch political debate. A recent study estimates that 1.7 million foreign workers are present in the labor market, far above official estimates, which ranged between 220,000 and 700,000. Authorities acknowledge that the number of illegal immigrants is even more difficult to calculate, while also admitting a correlation between population growth due to immigration and an increase in crime.
The announcement comes after several diplomatic initiatives aimed at strengthening cooperation with Damascus. In recent weeks, the Netherlands has held meetings in Syria to facilitate returns and improve the country’s socio-economic conditions. Additionally, the government recently signed a letter of intent with Uganda to use the African country as a transit point for returned illegal immigrants.
The voluntary return plan will operate for a limited period and is part of a broader strategy to manage migration pressure and reorganize the Dutch reception system.
