The Belgian Immigration Officer has introduced a significant policy modification that affects international citizens applying for fast-track family reunification visas. Henceforth, dependents of sponsored permit holders can only benefit from the expedited visa procedure if the primary candidate earns a minimum gross monthly income of $5,684.
Previously, there was no earning threshold, making it very simple for international experts to reunite with their loved ones in Belgium. The new law will likely impact skilled employees with dependents and may also affect foreign employment determinations.
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Quicker Family Reunification Comes At A Higher Cost
Initially, the fast-track system provided a significant benefit, processing family reunification requests within 15 days compared to the typical 9-month wait.
This straightforward procedure was highly valued by international citizens seeking a quick way to reunite with their loved ones in Belgium. Hence, this comfort now comes with huge monetary requirements.
Meaning Of Fast-Track Family Reunification Visa
Belgium’s fast-track family reunification visa enables dependents of specific international employees to join them in the country within just 12 days, compared to the standard 9-month processing duration for most requests.
This fast-track route has been explicitly enticing for employers and employees alike, helping to simplify transitions and enhance the work-life balance of foreign employees.
Who Is Impacted By The New Income Prerequisite
The new $5,684 per month income law is applied only to specific classifications of permit holders. Below is a summary:
Exclusion From The New Law
- EU Blue Card holders
- Self-employed persons with an authentic specialist card
- Intra-corporate transferees
- Students with an authentic hosting consensus
These experts can still utilize the fast-track visa path without satisfying the new salary threshold if they fulfill other qualification measures.
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Subject To The New Law
- Sponsored permit holders who do not dwell under the excluded classifications.
- International employees are getting paid below $5,684 per month.
Why This Is Important For Employers And Skilled Migrants
This update may have far-reaching effects on Belgium’s capacity to attract highly experienced foreign skills. Several international employees weigh the option to migrate with their families when considering overseas employment offers.
Employers in Belgium may now find it more challenging to hire non-EU experts who cannot meet the revised salary condition but still possess valuable experience.
Prospective Effects
- Gradual onboarding of foreign skill
- Decreased interest in Belgium as an immigration location.
- Elevated administrative stress for HR divisions.
Belgium’s Wider Immigration Landscape
Belgium relies on international skills to fill labor shortages in healthcare, Information Technology (IT), construction, and engineering industries. Hence, immigration changes such as these may exacerbate stress for employers and prospective workers.
It is worth understanding that the EU Blue Card remains one of the most accessible routes for experienced experts seeking quicker family reunification options without salary limitations. This may motivate more employees to apply for the Blue Card program if they are qualified.
Hints For International Employees And Employers
If you are making plans to migrate to Belgium or hire international skills, below are some stages to remain compliant:
- Review qualifications for the EU Blue Card or student status.
- Ensure that income criteria are satisfied before applying for fast-track reunification.
- Seek legal advice or consult with immigration consultants to stay informed about updates.
- Notify dependents promptly concerning any feasible delays if the fast track is unobtainable.
While Belgium still provides facilitated immigration pathways for specific categories of employees, the new $5,684 salary law narrows the route for several individuals looking to bring their families to the country quickly. This modification highlights the importance of explicit visa planning for international experts and Belgian employers.
