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Accompanied minor
A person under the age of 18 who is accompanied by their parent(s) or legal guardian.
Genital mutilation
Genital mutilation covers all forms of removal or mutilation of the female genitals without any medical need.
Trusted person
Someone you trust and who works with you in their professional capacity (psychologist, teacher, social worker, etc.).
Subsidiary protection
The CGRS grants you subsidiary protection if you are at real risk of serious harm if you return to your country of origin and you cannot count on the protection of that country.
A person who has received subsidiary protection is given a residence permit for a limited period of 1 year. This can then be extended twice for 2 years. You receive permanent residence after 5 years, provided that the CGRS has not revoked your status during this period.
Guardian Service
A public service that organises guardianship for unaccompanied foreign minors.
Durable solution
Special residence procedure. This is a procedure for unaccompanied minors that can be started up alongside other procedures. You look for a solution for your future together with the Immigration Office and your guardian. This can be: family reunification with your parents in a country where they legally reside; return to your country of origin or a country where you can legally reside; residence in Belgium.
Visa
An official authorisation to enter and stay in a country. A visa is issued by the country where the traveller goes to. That way, the country can control who enters the country.
Debt mediation
If you go into debt mediation, a debt mediator (e.g. the CPAS/OCMW) will try to come to an arrangement with your creditors regarding the payment of your debts.
Living wage
Sum of money that is paid monthly by the CPAS/OCMW to people in need, following a social investigation. The sum received depends on the family composition.
Judiciary
All of the courts and tribunals that supervise compliance with the law.
In Belgium, the inhabitants speak French, Dutch or German, depending on the region where they live. The three different regions are called communities.
Applying for international protection (asylum) in Belgium is sometimes complicated. You may ask for help from your social assistant, an association or a lawyer.
The Red Cross helps you in your search for family members. The Red Cross cooperates with other Red Cross and Red Crescent associations worldwide, and with special representatives in conflict zones.
Voluntary return desks from Fedasil and partner organizations are spread out all across Belgium. Contact one of these desks to ask for a voluntary return or for more information.
If you have not received a reception place after registering with the Immigration Office, you can register on a waiting list. In the meantime, you are entitled to medical care and legal aid.
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’.