The deployment of Frontex officers is authorised under the Belgian Act of 16 May 2024, which allows EU border guards to operate under the authority of Belgian police while exercising equivalent powers, and under the monitoring of national authorities. The Royal Decree of 15 May 2025 specifies the locations where the officers may operate, including Brussels Airport, and the conditions of their collaboration with Belgian forces.

On 8 September 2025, the first eight Frontex officers officially began their duties at Brussels Airport. They will work in coordination with local aviation police, expanding the capacity for return operations. Authorities have stated that the presence of Frontex personnel is intended to increase the number of return operations for individuals residing in Belgium without legal authorisation.

Some civil society organisations have called for close monitoring to ensure that return operations respect procedural safeguards. The government has indicated that discussions with Frontex will continue to explore further support in return operations in the coming months.

For further information, please read this press release (in Dutch) in Het Nieuwsblad.