Humanitarian regularisation

You have not been granted a right of residence, but due to a specific reason you cannot return to your country of origin. You can submit an application for humanitarian regularisation. Regularisation is an exceptional procedure.

Proof of exceptional circumstances

To obtain a humanitarian regularisation (9bis) you have to demonstrate why staying in Belgium is your only option. This may be because:

your residence procedure is exceptionally long
you are stateless
returning to your country of origin is a breach of international human rights

The Immigration Office has free authority to decide who receives a humanitarian regularisation. Each application is individually assessed.

Conditions

To apply for a regularisation, you must

have an identity document
have a place of residence in Belgium
pay an administrative fee (about 360 euro)

Procedure

You need to submit your application for regularisation with the municipality where you are registered. The municipality sends the application to the Immigration Office who will take a decision.

An application for regularisation can be processed quickly, but can also take longer. In the meantime, you have no right of residence and no right to work.

You do not receive support from the CPAS/OCMW and you are not entitled to a reception place from Fedasil. If necessary, you will receive urgent medical assistance.

Do you need more information or help?

Ask a lawyer for legal advice before starting the procedure for humanitarian regularisation.