Belgian authorities have announced the introduction of stricter border controls starting this summer, aimed at curbing illegal migration. Anneleen Van Bossuyt, the deputy minister for migration, emphasized that Belgium should not serve as a refuge for individuals previously denied entry elsewhere.
In a statement on social media, Van Bossuyt declared, “It is time for checks at entry points. Our message is clear: Belgium will no longer tolerate illegal migration and selective asylum seeking.” This decision follows similar measures taken by the Netherlands and Germany, part of a broader effort to limit migration across Europe, despite decreasing arrival numbers on various routes.
The Belgian government indicated that controls will be focused on key transit routes, including highway rest areas, bus transport, certain train services, and intra-Schengen flights from countries with high migratory pressure, such as Greece and Italy.
Prime Minister Bart De Wever, who took office in February, has identified reducing migration as a top priority for his right-leaning government. Belgium is a member of the Schengen Area, which allows free movement among its 29 member states, though temporary border checks can be reinstated in response to security or migration challenges, as outlined in Article 23 of the Schengen Border Code.
Currently, estimating the scale of illegal migration is challenging without systematic border controls, according to a spokesperson from the Belgian Immigration Office. In 2024, Belgium received 39,615 asylum requests, a 11.6% increase from the previous year, while its capacity was limited to 35,600 applicants, leaving many without adequate accommodation.
