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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.
Belgium is divided into 10 provinces. Each province has a capital. Brussels is the capital of Belgium.
Asylum seekers who have received a negative decision can still stay in reception for 30 days to prepare their departure from Belgium.
Asylum seekers are provided with clothing and products (soap, toothpaste, etc.).
Foreign nationals can only apply for Belgian nationality after 5 years of legal residence in Belgium. There are numerous conditions which must be met.
