Belgium has shocked its immigrant community with major changes to family reunification laws that took effect this week. The new regulations raise financial barriers and impose stricter age requirements. Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, criticize these changes as an attack on basic family rights.
What’s Changed in Belgium’s Immigration Landscape?
The Belgian Federal Parliament recently approved stricter family reunification rules, marking a significant shift in immigration policy. The new legislation creates barriers for families trying to reunite. Critics describe these changes as unprecedented, affecting countless families.
The Financial Hurdle Gets Higher
The most noticeable change is a substantial increase in income requirements. Sponsors must now prove they earn at least 110 percent of the guaranteed minimum wage, about €2,300 a month, plus 10 percent per dependent. This is a jump from the previous €2,131.28 to €2,323.10 net monthly.
Here’s how the new income structure works:
- One dependent: €2,323.10 monthly
- Two dependents: €2,555.41 monthly
- Three dependents: €2,787.72 monthly
- Each additional person adds another 10 percent
This increase poses higher financial barriers for larger families, potentially making reunification impossible for many working-class immigrants.
Age Restrictions Create New Obstacles
Equally controversial is the increase in minimum age requirements. The minimum age for family reunification has risen from 18 to 21 years. This affects young couples, forcing them to wait or seek alternatives in other European countries with less strict policies.
The age restriction applies universally, whether the Belgian resident is a citizen or holds a residence permit, removing previous exceptions.
Residency Requirements Add Another Layer
The new legislation introduces a mandatory two-year residency period for some residents before applying for family reunification. This impacts those with subsidiary protection, temporary residence, or certain unlimited residence permits. Critics argue it delays family unity and may push applicants toward irregular routes.
Expert Analysis: What This Means for Belgium’s Immigration Future
Supporters argue the reforms will reduce immigration pressure and improve integration by ensuring financial stability. However, Myria, the Interfederal Migration Centre, warns that the reform undermines the right to family life. Legal experts note potential conflicts with the European Convention on Human Rights.
International Context: Belgium Follows European Trend
Belgium’s move reflects a wider European trend toward stricter immigration controls. Countries like Denmark, the Netherlands, and Austria have adopted similar measures, citing integration concerns. Belgium’s thorough approach, however, affects multiple aspects of family reunification simultaneously.
Fast-Track Options Still Available for High Earners
Despite the tightening, Belgium offers fast-track options for high-income sponsors. The Belgian Immigration Office (DVZ/OE) issues fast-track visas for dependents of permit holders earning at least €5,000 gross monthly. This creates a two-tier system favoring wealthier families.
Transition Period Provides Limited Relief
The new rules took effect on August 18, 2025, but a transition period allows pending applications to be processed under older regulations. Specific timelines and eligibility remain unclear. Immigration lawyers advise clients to assess whether their applications fall under old or new guidelines.
Looking Ahead: Potential Challenges and Adaptations
Legal challenges seem likely, with human rights organizations preparing to test compatibility with European law. The European Court of Human Rights may decide if the measures disproportionately restrict family rights. Applicants are advised to plan finances carefully and explore other EU options.
Practical Implications for Current and Future Applicants
A surge of applications occurred before the deadline, followed by a drop in new cases, according to immigration offices. Financial documentation requirements have tightened, with stricter interpretations of “stable and regular” income. This may exclude seasonal or variable-income workers.
