Immigration has become a major topic ahead of the upcoming Dutch election, with widely shared claims about how much migrants cost the Netherlands. Recent statements on social media have circulated exaggerated figures, including claims that every non-Western immigrant costs the country €600,000.
A closer look at official data and expert analysis shows that these numbers are misleading.

Why the Debate Started

Ahead of the Dutch snap election, immigration has been at the center of political discussions. One claim shared online suggested that each non-Western immigrant costs the national treasury an average of €600,000.
This number appeared to reference a study by researcher Jan van de Beek, which examined the long-term fiscal impact of migrants based on factors such as employment, asylum, or family reunification.

But experts say the figures have been taken out of context and overstated.

What the Research Actually Found

According to the study:

• Migrants arriving for work contribute more than €100,000 on average to the Dutch economy.

• Asylum seekers may initially have higher public costs due to support needs.

• Family migrants also contribute over time but may begin with higher expenses.

The claim of €600,000 per migrant is an inflated interpretation of the study’s highest-cost scenario, which focused on specific groups and long-term projections.

Why Experts Disagree With the Viral Claims

Several Dutch economists say the study misinterprets public spending and overestimates migration costs.
Experts argue the report incorrectly treats all public services (such as defence, flood protection, and national infrastructure) as costs that increase with each migrant. Many of these services are non-rivalrous, meaning they cost the same whether the population is larger or smaller.

A joint analysis by prominent economists found:

• Only €11.8 billion of the €94 billion in public spending is actually linked to migrants.

• The often-quoted €17.3 billion “migration loss” is therefore too high.

• When corrected, the estimated cost falls to €8.4 billion, under 1% of GDP.

Experts also note that migrants contribute to the labour market and fill shortages in key sectors.

Migrants Contribute More Over Time

Economists stress that migrants’ economic impact changes significantly over time:

• Skills improve

• Education levels rise

• Labour participation increases

• Tax contributions grow

Studies show that young arrivals contribute more as they age, meaning early support costs can turn into long-term gains.

Does Migration Threaten the Welfare System?

Some studies claimed that long-term migration could strain the Dutch welfare system.
However, experts interviewed say this conclusion is not supported by long-term data.

Key points include:

• Asylum numbers have not shown a long-term upward trend since the late 1980s

• The welfare state has remained stable

• Migrant contributions become positive as integration progresses

According to the Dutch Ministry of Asylum and Migration, the average accommodation cost for one asylum seeker is €71 per day, and the 2025 budget for all foreigner reception services is less than 1% of GDP.

Conclusion

Claims that immigrants cost the Netherlands hundreds of thousands of euros are misleading and overstated.
While some groups require initial support, many migrants—especially those working or studying—make positive contributions to the Dutch economy over time.
Experts agree that the welfare state is not at risk of collapse due to migration and that public debate should be based on verified data, not inflated figures.