This 2023 report is marked by two developments:

• An increase in the number of applications: For example 189.000 short-stay visa applications were submitted in 2023, compared to 143.000 in 2022. In addition, 27.411 applications for a single permit or renewal of this permit were submitted to work in Belgium, compared to 24.365 in 2022. Furthermore, 1.927 foreign students and researchers applied for a “research year” to have the opportunity to look for a job in Belgium after their studies or research.
   
• A proactive return policy: Thanks inter alia to the individual follow-up carried out by ICAM coaches, the number of voluntary returns increased: 3.107 people illegally residing in Belgium left voluntarily in 2023. The number of forced returns also increased: 3.383 people were subject to forced return and 1.843 were sent back from the border. Priority is given to the return of people guilty of criminal offenses: 1.428 detainees were repatriated after their release. Finally, 1.241 people were transferred via the Dublin procedure to the competent Member State in 2023 - the highest number since 2016.

For further information, please read (in French or in Dutch) the report attached above.