Where to submit the family reunification application?

If the applicant is already in Belgium (even without a residence permit): the application can be submitted to the municipal administration of their place of residence.

If the applicant still resides abroad: they will need to apply for a D visa (family reunification) at the competent Belgian consulate.

Who can benefit from family reunification?

1. Close family members (1st degree) of the EU citizen

The following are eligible:

• The spouse or registered partner in a country whose union is recognised by Belgium (e.g. Germany, Norway, Sweden, etc.)
• The partner registered under a law (PACS in France, legal cohabitation in Belgium)
• Minor children or children under 21 years of age, of the EU citizen or their partner
• Dependent adult children, provided that effective custody can be demonstrated
• Dependent ascendants (parents, grandparents)

The EU citizen will need to prove that their relatives will not become a burden on the Belgian social assistance system.

Conditions to be met (if the application is made within the first 5 years of residence)

• Sufficient resources (stable income)
• Health insurance covering all family members
• Suitable housing in Belgium

2. Other family members (up to the 4th degree)

(Article 47/1 of the law of 15/12/1980)

This may include an uncle, cousin, brother or sister, provided one of the following elements can be demonstrated:

• Having cohabited with the EU citizen in the country of origin
• Having been financially dependent on them
• Being physically dependent on the EU citizen for health reasons

These applications are analysed on a case-by-case basis, according to the documents provided and the reality of the ties.

3. De facto partner (not registered)

Unlike other situations, the unmarried partner of an EU citizen does not need a prior marriage or legal cohabitation.

They simply need to prove the existence of a lasting relationship, for example:

• Cohabitation for at least one year
• A common child
• A relationship of at least 2 years, proven by photos, written exchanges, travel, etc.

All legal means of proof are admissible to demonstrate the relationship.