Dutch immigration exam discriminatory, says Human Rights Watch

15 May 2008

THE NETHERLANDS – Human Rights Watch says that the examination many migrants have to take in their own countries before being allowed to come to The Netherlands is discriminatory.

Non-Western migrants such as Turks and Moroccans have to sit the exam, while immigrants from the European Union, Japan and the United States are exempt. Human Rights Watch says it appears The Netherlands wants to keep certain groups out.

Since 2006, non-western migrants have to sit an exam to prove they have adequate knowledge of Dutch language and culture.

The exam, which was introduced by former Integration Minister Rita Verdonk, costs EUR 350. The number of applications from Turkey and Morocco has dropped substantially since its introduction.

[Radio Netherlands / Expatica]