On 28 June 2016, the Belgian Official Journal published the Act of 17 May 2016 modifying articles 10ter and 12bis of the Act of 15 December 1980 regarding access to the territory, residence, settlement and removal of foreigners (Aliens Act). As a result, the delay for processing requests for family reunification will be extended.
On the same day, the Act of 1 June 2016 modifying the Aliens Act was also published in the Official Journal. As a result , recognised refugees will no longer immediately receive a permit for unlimited stay but will at first be authorised to stay only temporarily in Belgium.
The latest version of the Aliens Act can be found on our website under ‘About the CGRS’.
The CGRS has published an updated version of its brochure “You are recognised as a refugee in Belgium”.
Longer processing time for family reunification applications
As from 8 July 2016, when the new legal provisions come into force, processing of family reunification requests will take 9 months. This period can be further extended in some cases.
Temporary right of residence in Belgium for recognised refugees
Until now, a recognised refugee immediately received the right to reside in Belgium for an unlimited period of time. As from 8 July 2016, when the new legal provisions come into force, a recognised refugee will at first only receive the right to stay in Belgium for five years, starting from the date of his or her asylum application. After five years, (s)he will receive the right to reside in Belgium for an unlimited period of time unless refugee status is withdrawn or ceases to apply.
Update of the brochure “You are recognised as a refugee in Belgium”
Because of these changes and some other changes, the CGRS has updated its brochure “You are recognised as a refugee in Belgium”. The updated brochure can be downloaded under ‘Publications’