In Belgium, active discussions continue on changes to immigration policy that will be implemented in light of the 2024 election results. The new coalition governments at federal and regional level are seeking to develop initiatives aimed at improving the integration of migrants into Belgian society.
The main policy directions include:
- Simplifying the issuance of temporary work permits: A new declaration from the Walloon Government aims to improve the permitting process, which should help address the region’s labour shortage.
- Improving housing affordability: Authorities plan to review existing decrees to provide more night shelters and temporary housing for migrants, as well as introducing assessments of the social conditions of tenants every three years.
- Tightening integration requirements: Flanders is considering introducing standard language tests and increasing registration fees for migrants, which should improve integration levels.
- Refugee quota debate: Talks continue in Brussels on introducing targeted quotas for the admission of refugees, which could significantly change the approach to international protection issues.
- Creating integration programs: New initiatives aim to improve access to integration centers and increase flexibility in programming jobs for migrants.
These changes are therefore not only expected to impact the future of migrants in Belgium, but will also be an important part of the upcoming local and federal elections. Stay tuned for further developments in the field of immigration and integration in Belgium.
