New rules on labour migration must tackle fraud and attract talent

“Open the door to those who strengthen the economy, but close it to those who abuse the system.” That is the core of the new bill on labour migration approved today by the Council of Ministers, on the proposal of Minister for Asylum and Migration Anneleen Van Bossuyt.

“Labour migration must not become a back door for fraud or sham constructions,” says Van Bossuyt. “Those who come here to work and follow the rules should be helped quickly and correctly. But those who forge documents, organise abuse or try to bring people to Belgium through fake companies will hit a wall.”

More protection for exploited workers

With the new law, the Immigration Office will gain more powers to intervene in cases involving abuse of work permits. Applications may be refused when there are serious doubts about documents or statements, when a company appears to have been set up mainly to give people access to Belgium, or when the actual purpose of the stay differs from the work for which the application was submitted. In addition, anyone who still owes costs to the Immigration Office following a previous removal order will not be granted a new residence permit until those costs have been paid.

At the same time, the law makes a clear distinction between fraudsters and victims. Workers who themselves become victims of serious social offences committed by their employer will now receive greater protection. Their right to stay is often linked to their authorisation to work in Belgium, which can discourage them from reporting abuse by their employer. When the employment contract ends and serious violations are established, their residence will no longer be terminated after 90 days, but only after 180 days.

“Our fight against abuse targets fraudulent constructions and rogue employers, not workers who are themselves being exploited,” says Van Bossuyt. “Those who exploit people will be dealt with. Those who are victims will get more time to, for example, find another job.”

Faster procedures for international talent

In addition, the European Blue Card will also become more attractive. The card is intended for highly qualified workers from outside the European Union. The processing time for applications will be reduced to a maximum of 90 days, family reunification rules for this group will be simplified, and mobility within the EU will also become easier.

“Belgium needs top international talent, but this must happen through clear and controlled procedures,” Van Bossuyt concludes. “We are opening the door more quickly to those who strengthen our economy, and closing it to those who abuse the system.”