IND calls for scope for implementation and stable policy amid major changes
Amid major changes, the Immigration and Naturalisation Service (IND) is asking the government to ensure stable and predictable policy, and to provide the necessary scope for implementation. In its latest State of Performance (only available in Dutch) report, published today, the organisation argues that this is essential for improving and future-proofing the implementation of migration policy.
The State of Performance reports describe the bottlenecks, challenges and dilemmas faced by the IND.
Major changes
So far, 2026 has been a year of major changes for the IND. As the excessive strain on the asylum system continues to be felt, the organisation is emphasising the importance of consistent policy and asking the government not to introduce any additional changes or shift priorities for the time being.
Rapid developments in AI
The IND is seeing rapid developments in AI technology. At the same time, the legal frameworks surrounding the use of AI tools are not always clear. This means that legislation must be interpreted and applied by professionals who are not yet sufficiently equipped to do so. The IND is therefore urging policymakers to translate the European AI Act into concrete and applicable laws and regulations and asking the government to invest in AI literacy within the civil service.
Future-proof and simpler
The IND would also like to see a future-proof admission system for labour migration. This system should be flexible enough to adapt to economic demands and allow for selective and targeted changes. In addition, the organisation is calling for the civic integration system to be simplified, and for outdated laws and regulations to be updated to better align with current practice.
Greater focus on implementation
‘The IND is facing a massive challenge,’ explains Director General Rhodia Maas. ‘To be effective, we need consistent policy and stability.’
Maas also notes that policymakers are clearly paying more attention to the IND’s input: ‘The IND has been given opportunities to consult with both the House and the Senate. We were invited to several roundtables on asylum laws and the Migration Pact Implementation Act, and individual MPs have also reached out to ask what would help us improve our effectiveness. Across government, there is a willingness to listen to us and to give greater priority to feasible and effective policy, which we are very happy to see.’