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EMN Belgium participates in EMN Luxembourg thematic meeting: “Ensuring the best interests of the child in the implementation of the Pact”

25/06/2026

On 25 June 2026, the Belgian Contact Point to the European Migration Network (EMN) participated in the third thematic meeting on children in migration, organised jointly by the Luxembourgish Contact Point to the EMN and the OKaJu (Ombudsman for Children in Luxembourg – Ombudsman fir Kanner a Jugenlecher). The aim of the conference was to discuss the best interests of the child in the context of the implementation of the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum. The event brought together various stakeholders from 24 countries, as well as several international organisations and networks, both online and in person.

 

Theme:
Vulnerable groups
Type:
News item
Keywords:
migrant child
best interests of the child
New Pact on Migration and Asylum
implementation

EMN Luxembourg third thematic meeting: “Ensuring the best interests of the child in the implementation of the Pact”

09/06/2026

EMN Luxembourg and the Luxembourg Ombudsman for Children and Youngsters (OKaJu) are bringing together EU ombudsmen for children and youth, as well as child welfare agencies, to discuss the best interests of the child in the context of the implementation of the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum. The meeting offers a timely opportunity to take stock of early experiences and emerging practices. It places a particular focus on ensuring that fundamental rights obligations, especially those relating to children, are upheld in national systems.

Theme:
Vulnerable groups
Type:
Event
Keywords:
New Pact on Migration and Asylum
best interests of the child
fundamental right

Ad Hoc Query on removal of third-country nationals from national lists of prohibited persons on the basis of marriage to an EU citizen

15/06/2026

This ad hoc query examines whether third-country nationals (TCNs) who are subject to national entry bans or are included in "Stop Lists" are removed from these lists upon marriage to an EU citizen. It further maps the specific procedures, required documentation, and assessment criteria used by EMN Member Countries to distinguish genuine relationships from marriages of convenience.

Theme:
Family Migration
Publication type:
Ad Hoc Queries
Keywords:
entry ban
stop list
marriage of convenience
EU citizen

Ad Hoc Query on screening procedure regarding unaccompanied minors

06/06/2026

This ad hoc query examines which actors are responsible for monitoring the fundamental rights of unaccompanied minors during screening in Member States, and whether the Ombudsmen for children have a role in this procedure. The query explores whether the Ombudsmen are consulted during the screening process, whether they conduct unannounced visits to the facilities where unaccompanied minors are accommodated, whether they can speak with the children in private, and whether they have access to documents concerning the children during the screening process. 

Theme:
Vulnerable groups
Publication type:
Ad Hoc Queries
Keywords:
screening regulation
screening procedure
unaccompanied minors
fundamental rights
ombudsman for children

Ad Hoc Query on methodology for calculating periods of absence

15/05/2026

This ad hoc query examines the ways in which EMN Member and Observer Countries calculate periods of absence in the context of applications for an EU Long-Term Residence Status, which requires 5 years of continuous residence. Additionally, this ad hoc query inquires about the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) or Optical Character Recognition (OCR) in EMN Member and Observer Countries, or any future plans to do so. 

Theme:
Economic migration
Family Migration
Student Migration
Publication type:
Ad Hoc Queries
Keywords:
long-term residence
continuous residence
period of absence
entry exit system
digitalisation

Belgian Council of Ministers approves draft bill on labour migration and highly qualified non-EU workers

13/05/2026

The Belgian Council of Ministers has approved a draft bill aimed at strengthening rules on labour migration and improving the framework for highly qualified non-EU workers. The proposal includes measures aimed at strengthening the fight against fraud linked to labour migration, while also seeking to make the European Blue Card more attractive for highly qualified workers from outside the European Union. The draft bill also provides for additional protection for workers who are victims of certain social law infringements committed by employers. The text will now be submitted to the Council of State for advice.

Theme:
Economic migration
Type:
News item
Keywords:
labour migration
highly skilled workers
EU blue card
single permit
fraud
infringement
exploitation

Bridging the digital divide: Digital services in legal migration procedures for accessibility and inclusion (EMN Inform)

12/05/2026

This Inform examines how digital services in legal migration procedures are designed and implemented in EMN Member and Observer Countries to ensure accessibility and inclusion for applicants with disabilities and digitally disadvantaged applicants. It looks at how authorities have adapted applications, document submission, appointment booking, communication and information exchange, and case-tracking services in the context of the ongoing digitalisation of legal migration procedures. The analysis is based on contributions from 25 EMN Member and Observer Countries.

Theme:
Economic migration
Family Migration
Student Migration
Citizenship & Nationality
Borders & Visa
Publication type:
Informs
Keywords:
legal migration
digitalisation
accessibility
inclusion

Ad Hoc Query on legal status and documentation of Belarusian children born in Member States who cannot obtain a Belarusian passport

08/05/2026

This ad hoc query maps how EMN Member and Observer Countries address the legal status and documentation of children born on their territory to legally residing Belarusian parents who are unable to obtain a national passport following the adoption of Decree No. 278 of the Republic of Belarus. 

Theme:
Vulnerable groups
Publication type:
Ad Hoc Queries
Keywords:
Belarusian child
passport
travel document
legal status
application for a residence permit

Ad Hoc Query on regulating recruitment fees charged by employment agencies to migrant workers

06/05/2026

This ad hoc query examines whether, and how, EMN Member and Observer Countries regulate employment agencies that charge recruitment fees to third-country national workers. More specifically, it gathers information on the legislative basis for such regulations as well as set maximum fees and sanctions in cases where recruitment fees were charged unlawfully to third-country workers.  

Theme:
Economic migration
Publication type:
Ad Hoc Queries
Keywords:
migrant worker
employment agency
recruitment fee
fair recruitment

Ad Hoc Query on temporary residence permits for the purpose of purchasing real estate

06/05/2026

This ad hoc query maps the legislation and administrative practices of EMN Member and Observer Countries regarding the issuance of temporary residence permits to third-country nationals based on the purchase or long-term rental of real estate. It explores the specific conditions for these permits and identifies any issues or particularities encountered by national authorities in their issuance. 

Theme:
Economic migration
Publication type:
Ad Hoc Queries
Keywords:
temporary residence permit
real estate
investment
rental

CGRS outlines operational and procedural changes linked to EU Pact implementation from June 2026

05/05/2026

The Belgian Commissioner General for Refugees and Stateless Persons (CGRS) announces a series of changes that will apply from 12 June 2026. These changes are part of the implementation of the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum, adopted in 2024. They will affect asylum procedures, operational practices and new institutional responsibilities.

Theme:
Vulnerable groups
International Protection
Type:
News item
Keywords:
New Pact on Migration and Asylum
asylum procedure
personal interview
accelerated procedure
subsequent application
safe country of origin
age assessment

Ad Hoc Query on recognition of qualifications and skills of third-country nationals in relation to regulated professions

30/04/2026

This ad hoc query examines whether EMN Member and Observer Countries implement measures to facilitate a more efficient and effective recognition of the qualifications of third-country nationals (TCNs) for access to regulated professions. It explores whether countries use specific assessment methods to enable TCNs to enter regulated professions, whether they facilitate or accelerate the recognition procedure for specific groups of TCNs or specific professions, and whether they have institutional arrangements or coordination mechanisms in place to facilitate that recognition. The query also considers whether countries are involved in cooperation activities related to these recognition procedures.  

Theme:
Economic migration
Publication type:
Ad Hoc Queries
Keywords:
third-country nationals
qualifications
skills recognition
regulated profession

Ad Hoc Query on applications for a single permit to reside and work from a short stay

30/04/2026

This ad hoc query examines whether EMN Member Countries allow persons holding a Schengen visa and persons enjoying visa-free travel to apply for a single permit on their territory during their short stay. Additionally, the ad hoc query inquires about different aspects of such procedures as well as possibilities for third-country nationals to obtain a visa for the purpose of seeking employment.   

Theme:
Economic migration
Borders & Visa
Publication type:
Ad Hoc Queries
Keywords:
Schengen visa
visa-free travel
single permit
migrant worker

Nearly one quarter of first-time asylum applicants in the EU were minors in 2025

29/04/2026

In 2025, minors accounted for 23.7% of all first-time asylum applicants in the European Union, according to recent Eurostat data. A total of 158.400 children applied for asylum for the first time, including a significant proportion of unaccompanied minors. While the overall number of minor applicants declined compared to previous years, children continue to represent a substantial share of asylum seekers in the EU.

Theme:
Vulnerable groups
International Protection
Type:
News item
Keywords:
minor
first-time asylum applicant

Council for Alien Law Litigation makes child-friendly courtroom arrangements permanent for asylum cases involving unaccompanied minors

27/04/2026

The Council for Alien Law Litigation (CALL) has made the use of its child-friendly courtroom (“Salle M”) a structural arrangement as of March 2026. The measure applies to asylum appeal cases involving unaccompanied minors and is accompanied by adapted summonses, age-appropriate information materials, and strengthened judicial training on children’s rights. The initiative builds on a pilot phase and forms part of broader European efforts to enhance child-friendly justice.

Theme:
Vulnerable groups
International Protection
Type:
News item
Keywords:
Council for Alien Law Litigation
unaccompanied minors
courtroom
hearing room

Ad Hoc Query on medical examination requirements in future amendments of national residence permit regulations

10/04/2026

This ad hoc query examines the extent to which EMN Member and Observer Countries require medical certificates in the context of applications for temporary and permanent residence permits. More specifically, it inquires at what stage in the procedure the medical certificate is requested and what medical conditions are examined.  

Theme:
Economic migration
Family Migration
Student Migration
Publication type:
Ad Hoc Queries
Keywords:
application for a residence permit
medical examination
medical certificate

Ad Hoc Query on multidisciplinary age assessment procedure

10/04/2026

This ad hoc query examines whether EMN Member Countries plan to change their age assessment procedures in light of Article 25 of Regulation (EU) 2024/1348 on multidisciplinary age assessments. It explores which authorities or external providers are involved in the procedure, and how multidisciplinary teams carry out the assessment in practice. The query also covers how applicants are interviewed and how conclusions are drawn and communicated.

Theme:
Vulnerable groups
International Protection
Publication type:
Ad Hoc Queries
Keywords:
applicant for international protection
minor
age assessment
multidisciplinary approach

Ad Hoc Query on residence permits for seafarers and other crew personnel

05/04/2026

This ad hoc query examines requirements relating to residence and work permits for seafarers, as well as pilots of aircraft and other crew personnel. It enquires about the specificities of such requirements and assesses to what extent different rules apply to vessels registered in EU/EEA countries as opposed to vessels registered in third countries.  

Theme:
Economic migration
Publication type:
Ad Hoc Queries
Keywords:
residence permit
work permit
seafarer
crew

Belgian Council of Ministers approves draft law on guardianship of unaccompanied minors

03/04/2026

The Belgian Council of Ministers has approved a draft law aimed at bringing Belgian legislation on the guardianship of unaccompanied minors into line with the EU Pact on Migration and Asylum and introducing additional safeguards for minors. The text has been submitted to the Council of State for its opinion.

Theme:
Vulnerable groups
Type:
News item
Keywords:
unaccompanied minors
guardianship
New Pact on Migration and Asylum
age assessment
multidisciplinary approach

Belgian court confirms sponsor’s and partner’s means of subsistence must be taken into account in family reunification applications

02/04/2026

The Belgian Constitutional Court has clarified how the means of subsistence requirement applies in family reunification applications. The ruling establishes that the means of subsistence of both the Belgian sponsor and their partner must be taken into account when assessing compliance with this requirement. Previously, some applications were refused because only the sponsor’s means were considered. The decision aims to ensure compliance with principles of equality, non-discrimination, and respect for family life.

 

Theme:
Family Migration
Type:
News item
Keywords:
Constitutional Court
application for family reunification
income requirement
partner's income

Ad Hoc Query on practices regarding age assessment of third country nationals

18/03/2026

This ad hoc query examines whether EMN Member and Observer Countries have age assessment procedures in place, how these procedures are conducted, and which actors are responsible. It also explores the challenges encountered and how they are addressed. Finally, it examines whether the respondent countries plan to introduce a new procedure or amend an existing one in the near future.

Theme:
Vulnerable groups
International Protection
Return & Readmission
Publication type:
Ad Hoc Queries
Keywords:
minor
age assessment
medical examination
multidisciplinary approach

EU Parliament backs EU Talent Pool to facilitate international recruitment for in-demand occupations

10/03/2026

The European Parliament has endorsed the creation of an EU Talent Pool, a digital platform designed to match job vacancies in participating Member States with job seekers from third countries. The initiative aims to support recruitment in sectors facing labour shortages while remaining subject to national immigration procedures and voluntary participation by Member States. While supporters highlight its potential to strengthen legal pathways for labour migration, trade unions have raised concerns about worker protection and safeguards. The proposal still requires formal adoption by the Council before entering into force.

Theme:
Economic migration
Type:
News item
Keywords:
EU Talent Pool
adoption
European Parliament

Myria publishes first mapping of quantitative data on minor victims of trafficking and smuggling in Belgium

04/03/2026

Myria has released its first comprehensive mapping of quantitative data on minor victims of human trafficking and aggravated forms of smuggling in Belgium. The report aims to provide a clearer statistical basis for understanding the situation of minors at risk, while also highlighting structural gaps in current data collection and sharing practices.

Theme:
Vulnerable groups
Data & Statistics
Smuggling & Trafficking
Type:
News item
Keywords:
victim of trafficking
victim of smuggling
minor
data collection
figures

Minor victims of human trafficking and/or aggravated human smuggling (Myria)

04/03/2026

The report compiles available figures for the period 2015–2024 and examines how data are recorded, shared and used. It provides a clearer statistical basis for understanding the situation of minors at risk of trafficking and aggravated forms of smuggling, while identifying structural gaps in current data systems.

Theme:
Vulnerable groups
Data & Statistics
Smuggling & Trafficking
Publication type:
Report
Keywords:
victim of trafficking
victim of smuggling
minor
data collection
figures

Ad Hoc Query on specifics of the procedure for family reunification

27/02/2026

This ad hoc query shines light on the practices applicable in EMN Member Countries regarding applications for family reunification by third-country nationals and their family members who enjoy visa-free travel for short-stays in the EU, in the context of the implementation of the Family Reunification Directive (2003/86/EC).

Theme:
Family Migration
Publication type:
Ad Hoc Queries
Keywords:
application for family reunification
sponsor
residence permit
visa-free travel

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