Since 2020, Belgium has received around 1.000 asylum applications annually from Moldovan citizens, despite Moldova being classified as a safe country of origin. Less than 1% of these applicants are granted protection. By 2025, approximately 400 applications had already been recorded. 

According to Belgian authorities, several factors have contributed to the increase in applications, including socio-economic vulnerabilities, seasonal migration patterns, and the misperception that a temporary stay in Belgium may lead to financial incentives upon return. Officials have also observed a recurring trend of individuals applying for asylum during the winter months and returning shortly thereafter, often without pursuing the full asylum procedure.

During her visit to Chisinau, Minister Van Bossuyt met with key Moldovan officials, including the State Secretary for Asylum and Migration, the Minister of Labour and Social Protection, border police representatives, and Roma community leaders. The purpose of these meetings was to strengthen cooperation aimed at reducing unfounded asylum claims and improving information sharing.

The visit received extensive media coverage, during which Anneleen Van Bossuyt advised Moldovan nationals against risking travel to Belgium with their families to submit asylum applications. She emphasised that these applications are processed through an accelerated procedure, with a very low likelihood of protection being granted, and that no financial support for return will be provided since the return incentive has been discontinued.

For further details, please read this press article from Belga or from Moldovalive.