In 2024, Belgium made a significant decision to allow 20,724 individuals to enter the country on family reunification visas. This marks the highest number of such visas granted in more than a decade, a clear sign of Belgium’s commitment to family unity, especially amid global migration challenges. These figures reflect Belgium's stance on providing opportunities for families to be together, particularly in a world where migration has been on the rise due to conflicts and economic factors.

The surge in family reunification visa approvals is part of Belgium's broader effort to accommodate migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers, providing them a chance to reunite with their loved ones. For many, family reunification is not just a bureaucratic process but a deeply emotional and crucial part of their journey toward safety, stability, and integration in their new country.

The Surge in Family Reunification Visas

In 2024, Belgium granted family reunification visas to a total of 20,724 people, a record number not seen in the past ten years. Of these, around 5,700 were granted to the family members of refugees. This is a significant increase compared to the 2,000 family reunification visas issued in 2023, showing a dramatic rise in the number of refugees being granted such visas.

Furthermore, approximately 6,000 non-EU nationals received visas to bring their families to Belgium, including migrant workers. These individuals, who may have arrived in Belgium in search of better economic opportunities, were able to reunite with their families, fostering greater community stability and support networks.

The Emotional and Financial Toll of Family Reunification

The process of obtaining a family reunification visa is not without its challenges. Many applicants experience long waiting times, with some individuals waiting years for their families to join them. For instance, one individual recounted their experience of reuniting with their parents after a long 1.5-year wait. During this time, they spent thousands of euros and faced considerable stress, especially given the danger their family faced back home after the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan.

Such emotional and financial strains highlight the deep personal cost that many migrants endure in the pursuit of family reunification. The process often involves not just waiting for approval, but also navigating complicated paperwork, legal hurdles, and financial constraints. These factors can add immense pressure on applicants, who are already dealing with the stress of adjusting to a new country and culture.

One in Four Visas Granted to Refugee Families

As part of Belgium’s ongoing efforts to support refugees, one in four of the family reunification visas granted in 2024 were for the family members of refugees. This means that around 5,700 refugees successfully brought their families to Belgium, almost double the number of 2023, when only 2,000 refugees were granted this opportunity.

This growing trend of granting family reunification visas to refugees reflects Belgium’s recognition of the importance of family in the process of integrating newcomers into society. The support and stability that family reunification provides is seen as a key factor in helping refugees adjust to their new lives, overcome trauma, and build a sense of belonging.

The Link Between Family Reunification and Integration

According to Astrid Declercq, a family reunification expert at the Federal Migration Centre Myria, family reunification is crucial for the successful integration of newcomers. She explains that when people are separated from their loved ones, it becomes much harder for them to integrate into society. The emotional toll of being apart from family members can make it difficult for migrants to focus on other aspects of life, such as language acquisition, finding work, or establishing social connections.

For example, a refugee who has left behind a spouse or children may find it harder to concentrate on learning the local language or seeking employment, as their primary concern will be the well-being of their family. This emotional distress can delay their integration and make them more vulnerable to isolation and mental health issues. Bringing families together, on the other hand, allows individuals to feel more secure and supported, which can significantly ease their transition into a new country.

The Rising Number of Asylum Seekers in Belgium

Alongside the growing number of family reunification visas, Belgium has also seen a significant increase in asylum seekers. In 2024, 33,146 people sought asylum in Belgium, making it the second-highest figure since the migration crisis of 2015. This rise in asylum seekers reflects broader global migration trends, with people fleeing conflict, persecution, and instability in their home countries.

Asylum seekers who are granted refugee status often apply for family reunification to bring their loved ones to safety. This connection between asylum and family reunification is an important part of Belgium’s immigration policy, as it allows individuals to rebuild their lives in a more supportive environment. By facilitating family reunification, Belgium is not only meeting humanitarian needs but also fostering long-term social cohesion.

Potential Changes to Family Reunification Rules

While Belgium has been generous in issuing family reunification visas, the government is considering tightening the rules for these visas. Some officials argue that the current system is too lenient and may be contributing to the growing number of asylum seekers and migrants. There are discussions about implementing stricter requirements for family reunification, which could make it more difficult for some individuals to bring their families to Belgium.

These discussions are part of a broader European trend, with several countries considering or already implementing stricter rules for family reunification. For example, Finland has proposed introducing an age restriction for family reunification applicants, and Denmark is considering tightening its rules for residents wishing to bring family members into the country. If these proposals are adopted, they could limit the ability of many migrants and refugees to reunite with their families.

The Importance of Family Reunification in a Globalized World

The increasing importance of family reunification in the migration process cannot be overstated. In today’s interconnected world, families are often spread across different countries due to conflict, economic hardship, or political instability. Family reunification visas provide an opportunity for these families to reunite and rebuild their lives together in safety.

For many migrants, being separated from their families can have serious psychological and emotional effects. Studies have shown that family separation can lead to feelings of depression, anxiety, and social isolation. On the other hand, family reunification can provide a sense of stability and security, helping individuals to adapt to their new environment more effectively.

Moreover, family reunification plays a crucial role in the successful integration of migrants into society. When migrants are able to live with their families, they are better able to focus on their own personal and professional development. They are also more likely to engage with the local community, participate in social activities, and contribute to the economy.

The Practical Implications for Migrants and Policymakers

For migrants, the process of applying for a family reunification visa can be complex, time-consuming, and costly. It often requires a deep understanding of immigration laws and procedures, which can be challenging for individuals who are new to the country or who lack legal expertise. As such, it is essential for migrants to seek legal advice and support when navigating the visa application process. Many NGOs and support organizations offer assistance to migrants seeking family reunification, helping them to understand the requirements and prepare the necessary documentation.

Policymakers, on the other hand, must carefully balance the need for family reunification with the broader goals of immigration policy. While family reunification is essential for the well-being and integration of migrants, it is also important to consider the capacity of the country to absorb newcomers and ensure that resources are available to support them. Any changes to the family reunification rules should be carefully evaluated to ensure that they do not disproportionately impact vulnerable groups or undermine the country’s commitment to human rights and family unity.

Conclusion

Belgium’s decision to issue a record number of family reunification visas in 2024 reflects the country’s commitment to supporting migrants and refugees. However, the growing number of such visas has sparked debates about the potential for stricter regulations. Family reunification is not just a bureaucratic process; it is a crucial part of the migration journey, offering emotional and practical support to individuals seeking safety and stability in a new country. As global migration continues to rise, the importance of family reunification will remain a key issue for policymakers and migrants alike.

In the face of challenges, it is essential to recognize the value of family reunification not only in terms of humanitarian considerations but also as a driver of successful integration. By allowing families to stay together, countries like Belgium can help migrants build stronger, more resilient communities, benefiting everyone in the long run.