Politics · Netherlands · 6 hrs ago
Dutch Senate backs ending fines for delayed asylum decisions
The Dutch Senate backed a law ending fines for asylum seekers who wait too long for a decision on their applications.
The fines are paid by the Immigration and Naturalisation Service, the body responsible for deciding asylum cases.
A majority of senators voted for the change on Tuesday.
The change is part of stricter asylum laws in the Netherlands.
Another measure would require some foreign nationals who do not leave voluntarily to wait in detention for forced removal.
It is unclear whether the end to fines will stand up in court.
A majority of the Dutch Senate backed a law ending fines for the IND when asylum decisions are delayed.
The measure means asylum seekers will no longer receive fines because they have waited too long for a decision.
NU.nl reported that it was unclear whether the plan would withstand a court challenge.
AD also reported that the legislation includes detention pending forced removal for foreign nationals who do not leave voluntarily.
- Who
- A majority of the Dutch Senate.
- What
- It backed a law ending fines for the IND over delayed asylum decisions.
- When
- Tuesday, 13 October 2026.
- Where
- The Netherlands.
- Why
- The law provides that the IND no longer pays fines to asylum seekers who wait too long for a decision.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
This story does not have a timeline yet.
- Vote
- A majority of the Senate backed the law
- Fines
- The IND will no longer pay fines over delayed asylum decisions
- Legal status
- NU.nl said it was unclear whether the plan would withstand a court challenge