Estimated Iranian-Origin Population in the Netherlands
65,721
Based on population registers maintained by CBS StatLine, Statistics Netherlands, January 2026

The Netherlands uses population registers rather than a traditional census. A person is classified as Iranian-origin if they meet at least one of:

  • Born in Iran — first generation
  • Born in the Netherlands with a mother or father born in Iran — second generation

Third-generation residents (Dutch-born with Dutch-born parents) are not counted as Iranian-origin in CBS statistics. The classification is derived from birth records, not self-reported ethnicity or language.

Iranian-Origin Population by Generation
50,646
First generation
77% of total
Born in Iran
15,075
Second generation
23% of total
Born in the Netherlands, parent(s) born in Iran

Source: CBS StatLine — Statistics Netherlands, Population Register, January 2026

Source: Eurostat — Iran-born population stock, 1999–2025; 1990 and 1995 from UN DESA

Source: CBS StatLine — Statistics Netherlands, residence duration, January 2025

Geographic Distribution in the Netherlands

Source: CBS StatLine — Statistics Netherlands, Population Register 2025