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.

The Belgian Constitutional Court has temporarily suspended legislative measures introduced in 2025 that tightened rules on material reception conditions for asylum seekers and family reunification for beneficiaries of subsidiary protection. The suspensions concern two separate laws, and the Court has referred several preliminary questions to the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) to clarify their compatibility with EU law.

Twenty-five organisations have submitted a petition to the Belgian Constitutional Court challenging the new family reunification law, which entered into force in August 2025. The petition highlights concerns that the law creates barriers that may prevent families from reuniting, potentially separating children from their parents indefinitely.

Fragomen will host a webinar on recent changes to Belgium’s immigration policies. The session will cover two main areas: first, new rules in the Flanders Region concerning economic migration, including labour migration pathways, contractual liability, and labour market testing; and second, nationwide modifications affecting family reunification, such as stricter financial criteria for visa applications. The webinar will also highlight practical implications for businesses employing foreign nationals.

Eurostat published data on first residence permits issued to non-EU nationals. A residence permit represents an authorization issued by the competent authorities of a country allowing third-country national (non-EU citizens) to stay legally on its territory.

The European Commission published on 26 September 2014 a handbook to help EU Member States take action against marriages of convenience between EU citizens and non-EU nationals in the context of EU law on free movement. The Commission prepared the handbook in close cooperation with Member States.

The King Baudouin Foundation aims to reduce vulnerability amongst newcomers settling in Belgium through marriage. Associations working on marriage migration related challenges are invited to submit possible projects before 16 April 2014.

The Commission is presenting guidance for the correct and meaningful application of the Family Reunification Directive (2003/86/EC) across Member States while avoiding possible abuses.

In a communication released today, the Commission provides guidance on how to apply Directive 2003/86/EC. Member States are invited to use their margin of appreciation in a manner that doesn't undermine the objective of the Directive.

New provisions making information exchange compulsory on suspected and attempts of relationships of convenience enter into force on 3 April 2013.

Foyer organises a half-day seminar on the recent law of 2 June 2013 on the fight against marriages and legal cohabitations of convenience.