The Belgian Federal Parliament has approved new legislation that imposes tighter requirements on family reunification. The key changes include:
Pros:
Cons:
- Higher income threshold: The minimum salary for sponsoring family members has been raised to EUR 2,323.10 net per month (previously EUR 2,131.28). An additional 10% increase applies for each extra dependent. The calculation method for this income requirement will also be revised.
- Increased minimum age for partners: The required age for partners of Belgian nationals is now 21 years in all cases. The earlier rule that allowed exceptions down to 18 years has been removed.
- Two-year residence requirement: With certain exceptions, beneficiaries of subsidiary or temporary protection, as well as holders of residence cards or unlimited residence permits, must now have resided in Belgium for at least two years before becoming eligible to sponsor family reunification.
- Implementation and transition: The new rules take effect on August 18, 2025. However, pending and newly submitted applications during the transition period will generally continue under the previous framework, subject to specific exceptions and conditions.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros:
- Aims to ensure stronger financial stability of sponsors before admitting dependents.
- May reduce risks of dependency on public assistance.
- Standardizes age requirements, removing inconsistencies.
Cons:
- Creates a higher barrier for lower-income families, potentially limiting their ability to reunite.
- The two-year residence requirement may prolong family separation.
- Could increase administrative complexity during the transition phase.