Published: 03.08.2026

• 2026-08-03Belgium raises the cost of citizenship while strict eligibility requirements remain

  The registration fee for Belgian citizenship increased from €150 to more than €1,000 and reached €1,030 in January 2026, with annual indexation. The declaration procedure generally requires at least five years of uninterrupted legal residence, permanent residence status, proof of integration and economic participation, and knowledge of one of Belgium’s official languages.

• 2026-06-02Belgium tightens residence-renewal conditions for non-EU students

  Non-EU students must demonstrate academic progress to keep or extend their stay, otherwise they may face refusal of residence renewal and possible deportation. For bachelor’s programmes, credit thresholds have been set, while switching to a third field of study or unsuccessfully moving to a lower academic level triggers stricter scrutiny.

• 2026-05-13Belgium plans stricter labour-migration controls and easier access through the Blue Card

  The government approved a draft reform targeting abuse of labour migration, including forged documents and shell companies. The draft would give the Immigration Office broader powers to reject suspicious applications while making the European Blue Card more attractive for highly qualified non-EU workers through processing of up to 90 days, simpler family reunification, and easier EU mobility.

• 2026-02-17Belgium tightens family-reunification conditions for refugees and beneficiaries of subsidiary protection

  Sponsors applying for family reunification must demonstrate net monthly income of at least 110% of the guaranteed minimum, plus 10% for each additional dependent. The exemption period for recognised refugees has been shortened, beneficiaries of subsidiary protection must wait two years, and the minimum age for reunification or family formation with a partner has been raised to 21.