The Netherlands' right-wing government, led by Geert Wilders' PVV party, aims to opt out of the EU’s migration rules when the bloc next renegotiates its treaties, though no immediate changes are expected.

Asylum and Migration Minister Marjolein Faber emphasized that the government seeks stricter asylum policies and stronger border controls. While the EU’s newly agreed asylum pact remains in place, the Netherlands seeks future autonomy over its migration policies.

The country faces significant immigration pressure, with overwhelmed asylum centers and a growing push to make the Netherlands less attractive to migrants. The government also plans to limit labor migration and foreign student admissions.

The UK’s upcoming eVisa scheme, set to replace physical biometric residence permits by January 2025, raises concerns about a potential "digital Windrush scandal."

The Open Rights Group warns that many migrants, especially older ones, may struggle to prove their legal status due to issues with the eVisa system's design and implementation. Campaigners urge the government to halt the rollout, citing risks of data errors and system failures.

While officials emphasize that the new digital visas are secure, concerns remain about vulnerable people facing difficulties transitioning to the system. Assistance programs are being provided, but many fear unintended consequences.

IRCC's backlog has grown to over one million applications since July 31, 2024. Of 2.36 million total applications, 1.36 million are processed within service standards.

Permanent residency programs, including Express Entry and family sponsorship, have 299,000 applications in the backlog. Temporary residency applications face higher delays, with 49% in the backlog.

Visitor visas, study permits, and work permits are significantly affected. At 17%, citizenship applications match the projected backlog. IRCC is working to reduce the backlog by focusing on essential workers and capping temporary resident admissions in the coming years.