Overview of the Dutch asylum and immigration system : Dutch methods of regulating migration

In contrast to the United Kingdom, Dutch migration control mechanisms are not limited to the nation's borders. Instead, the country has a long history of administrative measures by which to regulate entry and residence of foreign nationals. Indeed, with progressive integration into the European Union the significance of borders and their controls has decreased to the extent that it is now Schengen partners who control their territory's borders on behalf of the Dutch government. What is left in terms of old-fashioned border control is now concentrated in the seaports (notably Rotterdam) and the national airport (Amsterdam Schiphol) which are gates of entry to Dutch territory and, of course, the Schengen area at large. Administrative controls within the Dutch state meanwhile have been intensified.
After a brief historical overview, we look at Dutch (and Schengen) controls at borders and gates of entry; internal controls; and at measures by which to address the failings of these controls (regularizations of irregular residents and the application of penal law).