The Federal Ombudsman has highlighted persistent challenges for individuals required to submit visa applications in person at Belgian diplomatic or consular posts. These requirements can create significant financial, administrative, and security burdens, particularly for applicants living far from a competent post or in conflict-affected regions. The Ombudsman recommends reviewing visa submission procedures to improve accessibility and consistency.

The European Commission has released new figures revealing a substantial rise in short-stay visa applications to the EU and Schengen-associated countries in 2024. With over 11.7 million applications submitted, the upward trend reflects a continued post-pandemic recovery, although numbers remain below pre-COVID levels. Notably, Bulgaria and Romania began issuing Schengen visas on 31 March 2024, further integrating into the Schengen visa system.

In een vandaag gepubliceerd persbericht zegt Myria veel meldingen te ontvangen van mensen die op een of andere manier een band hebben met België en die vastzitten in uiterst bedreigende omstandigheden in Gaza.

People affected by the earthquake in Turkey and Syria who wish to travel to Belgium to receive support from their families will have their visa application handled faster.