In May and June 2016, Iraqi asylum seekers who have arrived in Belgium before 2016 and who have decided to voluntarily return to their country of origin are granted a higher departure premium. This is also the case for Afghan asylum seekers between 15 June and 15 July, provided that they have lodged their asylum application before 1 June 2016. 

The premiums are doubled : before their departure – at the airport – each adult will receive 500EUR (instead of the usual 250EUR) and each accompanied minor will receive 250EUR (instead of the usual 125EUR).

These measures have been implemented at the initiative of the State Secretary for Asylum Policy and Migration, Theo Francken.

Starting on 15 June, Fedasil and IOM will also offer specific reintegration support to Afghan returnees. In addition to the reintegration project, Afghan nationals can benefit from other support measures (e.g. temporary accomodation upon arrival, transport to another city, etc.).

For further information, see the website on voluntary return (here and here).