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Political regime
The way in which a country is governed. In an oppressive political regime, people cannot just say what they think. In newspapers, they cannot write whatever they want. If they do not think and say the same things as the leaders of the country, they could end up in prison or even be killed.
Humanitarian regularisation (9bis)
This is an exceptional procedure. It is used in situations where you are not eligible for a different residence procedure, but you still have a reason to reside in Belgium. You need an identity document to start this procedure. The procedure costs €350 for each adult in the case.
Public buildings
Buildings of the government that are freely accessible. You can go here for information or other services.
Police
The police is a service of the government. The police maintains public order and security, investigates criminal offences and provides assistance.
Immatriculation certificate (AI) / Orange card
An immatriculation certificate (AI) or orange card is a provisional residence permit that you receive as an applicant for international protection (asylum seeker). The certificate also states whether or not you can work.
You can obtain an AI from the municipality if you have an Annex 26. If you have made a subsequent application, you will only receive an AI if the CGRS has declared your request admissible.
OKAN classes
OKAN (in Dutch) stands for reception class for foreign-speaking newcomers.
Foreign-speaking students who have only recently arrived in Belgium can receive extra support in specialised classes. You learn Dutch there to integrate into education and society.
Employment contract
An employment contract is an agreement between the employer and the employee. It contains the conditions of employment, such as the number of working hours, the salary, etc.
Opening times
Opening times are the hours that a shop or an institution is open.
Employment office
An employment office will help you find work. For example: VDAB, Actiris, Forem.
Rental contract
An agreement between a landlord and a tenant for a house. As a tenant, you are protected by the law.
If you have obtained a diploma abroad and you want to work in Wallonia or Brussels, you can have your diploma recognised. How? You have to request the 'equivalence' of your diploma from the Wallonia-Brussels Federation.
Welcome to the Fedasil arrival centre in Brussels. This is the place where people can apply for international protection in Belgium.
When you live together with many people in one building, there is a chance that you get an infectious disease, like scabies.
Have you found paid work? Together with your employer, you must sign an employment contract. Also inform your social worker, and join a health insurance scheme.
Do you have health problems that may complicate the interview? Talk about this with your social worker.
If you do not have valid residence papers, then you are without legal residency in Belgium. You do not receive any support from the government, and you are not allowed to work.
In Belgium, you are not allowed to smoke in public buildings, at work, in cafés and in the reception centre. You can however smoke on the street or on terraces.
The Immigration Office sends your case to the CGRS (CGRA/CGVS). The CGRS then invites you for a personal interview.
During the personal interview you will explain why you left your country of origin and why you cannot or do not want to return.