Stricter rules for social assistance to recognised refugees and other newcomers

Minister for Asylum, Migration and Social Integration Anneleen Van Bossuyt is set to tie social assistance for recognised refugees to their integration efforts. Other newcomers, meanwhile, will have to wait five years before becoming eligible for social support.

“Automatic access to welfare for newcomers is coming to an end. And those who do receive support must take responsibility by actively working to integrate. If they don’t, their benefit will be significantly reduced. No responsibility, no solidarity,” says Minister Anneleen Van Bossuyt.

Integration efforts rewarded, refusal comes at a cost

Recognised refugees entitled to social assistance will be required to follow a strengthened integration path in cooperation with the regional governments. Anyone who fails to follow this path or doesn’t put in enough effort may see their benefit cut by up to one-third.

“We’re attaching essential conditions to the right to receive a living allowance. Anyone wishing to rely on our solidarity must, under this new framework, prove they’re willing to integrate—by learning the language, actively looking for work, and completing an integration programme. In the coming months, we’ll work with the regions to define these requirements in more detail.”

All individuals who are already recognised as refugees and currently receiving support will also have to comply with the same conditions. A close collaboration with the regions will ensure their competencies align with the new rules.

Five-year waiting period for other newcomers

The rules are also being tightened for other newcomers—such as third-country students or EU citizens who are not actively seeking employment. From now on, they must reside legally in Belgium for five years before becoming eligible for social assistance. Exceptions will remain in place for vulnerable groups, such as people granted medical regularisation or victims of human trafficking.

No right to reception, no right to welfare

Previously, Van Bossuyt had already ensured that individuals without a right to reception would no longer be entitled to a living allowance from the public social welfare centre (OCMW/CPAS). “An asylum application is no longer a ticket to financial support,” the minister said at the time. “The overly lenient welfare policies of previous governments created a pull factor for newcomers to Belgium. We’re putting a stop to that,” the minister concludes. “We’re tightening the conditions, encouraging integration, and tackling abuse. That benefits not only our society, but newcomers themselves.”