Belgium Considers Police-Assisted Home Visits for Foreigners

Belgium's Interior Committee is advancing a controversial proposal that would grant the Office of Foreigners the authority to request police assistance for home visits. The measure aims to apprehend individuals who refuse to comply with orders to leave the country and to seize documents if they are deemed a danger to national security or public order. Crucially, any such action would require prior authorization from an investigating judge.

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we are going to put an end to the existing chaos.

Freddy Roosemont, director of the Office of Foreigners, hailed the text as "logical and executable," arguing it would end existing "chaos." He stated that current legislation and its interpretations have created an "unclear" situation on the ground and that the target group for this measure is well-defined. However, his views are contested by various organizations.

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the current legislation and its reinterpretation over time has created a situation that is not clear on the ground.

Concerns have been raised regarding the broad definition of "danger to public order." Eric Wauters of the Permanent Committee of the Local Police (CPPL) noted that while the notion of public danger is sufficient, it requires further clarification. Joost Depotter of Vluchtelingenwerk Vlaanderen pointed out that even a simple report could be grounds for action under the proposed law, citing examples like undeclared work or self-defense. Sybille Gioe of the League of Human Rights (LDH) echoed this, calling the concept of public order "very broad."

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this single notion of 'danger to public order' is sufficient, but calls for clarification.

Representatives from the CPPL also called for more precise instructions on practical aspects, such as who would secure utilities like gas or electricity, manage the property, handle seized documents, or pay for locksmiths. They also requested a framework for procedures involving minors. Despite these concerns, Roosemont maintained that the process would be administrative, not judicial, and that the basis for a visit is the absence of a residence permit. He assured that information regarding the presence of minors is included in administrative files and that a judge's approval is mandatory.

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A simple report is a possibility accepted in this law.