An IMGW News Report
Belgium issued 20,724 family reunification visas in 2024, the highest in over a decade. This reflects a rising migration trend, with one in four visas granted to refugee family members. The Immigration Office reports a dramatic increase from the 2,000 visas issued to refugees’ families in 2023.
“As long as people are separated, it’s much harder to integrate”
Additionally, 6,000 non-EU nationals received visas to join Belgian citizens, with others issued to migrant workers’ families. This surge aligns with a rise in asylum seekers, as 33,146 people applied for asylum in Belgium in 2024—the second-highest figure since the 2015 migration crisis.
However, concerns are growing over potential restrictions on family reunification visas. Migrants already face significant challenges, including lengthy processes and high costs. Ikram, a 19-year-old Afghan migrant, endured a stressful 1.5-year wait to reunite with his parents under the threat of Taliban control.
Experts warn that tighter rules could harm migrant integration. Astrid Declercq from the Federal Migration Centre Myria stressed that family separation hampers the process. “As long as people are separated, it’s much harder to integrate. Their main concern remains their loved ones, often in dangerous situations,” she said.
Belgium is considering stricter measures amid a European trend toward tougher family reunification policies. Finland has proposed age and income thresholds, while Denmark is reviewing additional restrictions, including limits for those with criminal records. Norway has already introduced income requirements for applicants.
As Belgium debates these changes, experts caution that the emotional and social costs of family separation could outweigh any policy advantages.
