Belgium granted citizenship to a record number of foreign nationals in 2024, the highest since the early 2000s.

Data from Statbel, Belgium’s statistics agency, shows that 45,538 people became Belgian citizens in the first nine months of the year, a 9% rise from the same period in 2023.

Integration and migration drive numbers higher

Most new citizens come from Morocco, Syria, Romania, Afghanistan, and Turkey, showing a wide range of origins. There has also been an increase in Palestinian applicants.

Experts said that this rise is tied to the 2015-2016 migration crisis, which brought many asylum seekers to Belgium. Since then, many have completed integration courses, learned the official languages, and settled into Belgian communities.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasizes that applicants must meet strict residency and integration rules.

“Applicants must demonstrate a genuine connection to Belgium through their residence and cultural participation,” a ministry spokesperson said.

Breaking records set in 2001

Belgium last saw citizenship numbers this high in 2001, after introducing a fast-track citizenship law. That law, which sped up the process, was repealed in 2012.

Despite this, the current figures are nearly as high, reflecting changes in society and policy that have supported this year’s approvals.

In 2023, more than 54,800 people became Belgian citizens, a 13% increase from 2022. 

Of these, 40,473 came from non-EU countries, while 14,340 were from EU member states, showing Belgium’s growing appeal worldwide.

Eased rules for diplomatic spouses

Policy changes this year contributed to the rise in citizenship numbers. Updates to the Belgian Nationality Code let foreign spouses of Belgian diplomats gain citizenship without the previous five-year wait.

This change aligns their rights with those of foreign spouses living in Belgium, resolving concerns about fairness.

“The revised framework ensures that diplomatic spouses are no longer disadvantaged compared to other applicants,” a Ministry of Foreign Affairs representative noted.

Growing citizenship approvals to attract more migrants

These changes show Belgium’s shift toward more inclusive policies, which could attract skilled workers and long-term residents.

The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), starting in 2025, might further simplify entry, supporting this trend.

The new rules and rising citizenship numbers could have a lasting impact on Belgium’s labor market by helping migrants integrate more fully.

Schengen visa policies will continue to play a key role in shaping how newcomers access opportunities across the European Union (EU), potentially steering skilled workers into other industries.

Belgium’s approach reshapes EU immigration policies

Belgium’s approach could influence other EU countries. While some tighten immigration controls, Belgium shows that focusing on integration can bring positive results.

This strategy might spark EU-wide discussions on balancing immigration control with inclusivity.

Belgium’s response to post-crisis migration also provides a model for integrating refugees. Through language training and community support, the country has helped many refugees become full citizens, strengthening its society and economy.

Looking ahead

Belgium’s recent citizenship approvals highlight resilience and adaptation. They show the country’s focus on integration and fair policy changes. Other nations may learn from Belgium’s example in managing migration and supporting community growth.