Filing fees for appeals before Belgium’s Council for Alien Law Litigation rise to €251
From 1 September 2025, the filing fee for appeals before Belgium’s Council for Alien Law Litigation will increase from €186 to €251, marking a rise of approximately 35%. The fee for parties wishing to intervene in ongoing cases will also increase, from €133 to €180. Legal practitioners are advised to inform clients of the new rates. Questions remain over the impact of these increases on access to justice for vulnerable individuals.
The Royal Decree of 21 June 2025 (in French or Dutch), published in the Belgian Official Gazette, adjusts the procedural fees under Article 39/68-1, §1 of the Aliens Act of 15 December 1980. The Council for Aliens Litigation, which handles cases related to access, stay, establishment, and removal of foreigners, will apply these new rates to both appeals and requests to join ongoing proceedings.
Legal practitioners should take the revised fees into account when managing cases and inform clients about the changes. Clear communication is essential to ensure that clients understand the financial obligations involved in submitting appeals or joining ongoing proceedings.
Those eligible for free or partially free assistance can still obtain support for appeals, including pro deo representation before the Council. In Brussels, the Bureau for Legal Aid offers appointments and walk-in consultations for matters related to aliens’ law. Providing guidance and support is key to maintaining access to justice despite higher procedural costs.
For further details, please read this news.