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New to Belgium? That’ll be €225, please

Belgium
10:43 04/12/2014

Secretary of State for Asylum and Migration Theo Francken (N-VA) (pictured) wants foreigners to pay €225 up-front to cover the costs of the administrative processing of their residence application. The new measure would mainly apply to those coming to Belgium in the context of family reunification, and not refugees or people from other EU countries.

The new rule would go into effect this year if approved. However, the Council of State has reservations about Francken’s plan, and questions whether it “is consistent with constitutional, European and international law.” The list of exceptions could lead to an unlawful difference in treatment of migrant groups, according to the Council.

Written by Robyn Boyle

Comments

acsonline

Francken is not really the right man in the right place... by a long shot! Considering many immigrants simply CANNOT AFFORD to pay, it will be social services facing the extra burden, moreover. The proposal lacks both in common sense and basic humanity. Have that immature Francken character replaced : seems to very consciously provoke the wrong attitude and virulent political reactions!

Dec 4, 2014 13:33
Mikek1300gt

For once, ACV, I agree with you. It looks petty, mean, and it is indeed likely to be a charge on those who can least afford it.

This charge will be huge for some people, almost nothing as far as the Belgian State is concerned.

How about we cut back on Belgian politicians instead, or make commission workers pay Belgian taxes instead?

Dec 4, 2014 15:59
acsonline

@Mikek1 -- Relax, Bud. It's the season of goodwill: let's have some peace!

Dec 5, 2014 10:57