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Sworn translation
A sworn translation may be necessary if it is a translation of an official document that you have to submit to a court of law, a notary or the government. The document must be stamped, signed and have a sworn declaration of accuracy.
Arrival centre
The centre in Brussels where people register their application for international protection (asylum application) in Belgium.
Federal government
The one government in Belgium that takes decisions for the country as a whole.
Human smuggling
The act of helping people to illegally cross a border for one’s own financial gain.
OV/SP number
Public security number. Registration number (7 digits) with the Immigration Office. You find the number at the top of your annex from the Immigration Office.
Heterosexual
When someone is romantically/sexually attracted to people of the opposite sex. Both men and women can be heterosexual.
Gender expression
How you feel and show yourself as a person to the outside world. You can show this through clothing, talking, hairstyles, gestures...
Shelter
A place giving temporary protection from bad weather or danger.
Refugee
You are recognised as a refugee if you have made an application for international protection and you meet the conditions of the Geneva Convention.
A recognised refugee receives a residence permit for a limited period of 5 years. After 5 years, you receive permanent residence, provided that the CGRS has not revoked your status during this period.
Detention centre
A centre where rejected applicants and other undocumented persons are detained pending deportation.
Foreign nationals can only apply for Belgian nationality after 5 years of legal residence in Belgium. There are numerous conditions which must be met.
A subsequent application means no reception place.
Do you fear persecution in your country of origin because of your sexual orientation or gender identity? You can apply for international protection.
The Immigration Office checks whether Belgium or another European country will handle your application for international protection. This is called the 'Dublin regulation’.
If you are an unaccompanied foreign minor, the rules for which European country is responsible for your application (Dublin Regulation) are different.
You can voluntarily end your status as a recognised refugee. This may be the case, for example, if you feel that there are no longer any reasons to flee your country.
By applying for asylum in Belgium, you are requesting to stay on Belgian territory because your life is threatened in your country of origin.
People arriving in Belgium can apply for asylum there. Applying for asylum is asking for protection because your life is in danger in your country of origin.