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Belgian Nationality Question
Hi, I am an EU state national, and an interested in moving to Belgium and eventually applying for Belgian Nationality. I was told by a lawyer that in addition to the minimum of five years of residency you need, it takes a couple years to acquire the permanent residency you need. Through research I’ve done on the internet, I have never seen or heard that before. If you’re an EU citizen, doesn’t the five year period start as soon as you have a valid permit or even a temporary residence card?
The lawyer was being practical as you have to add the time taken for the various bureaucratic procedures at every stage. Seven years is perhaps a little pessimistic but I doubt whether you could get it done in less than six.
The 5 years start from the day you register as resident. If you have proof that you're entitled to be a permanent resident here (job, pension or other income), then there's no reason why there should be any delay.
Moral of the story: talking to lawyers is expensive.
J will now produce details of large numbers of people who have become Belgian citizens exactly 5 years after registering. Or rather he won't because there aren't any.
Having been here for five years I went to the Gementehuis recently for renewal of residency and Belgian citizenship application, the paperwork process will take five months, minimum.
Errr know several
EU nationals can apply for permanent residency and nationality simultaneously and so long as paperwork is in order at exactly 5 years, you can make the declaration of Belgian nationality. If the paperwork is approved nationally, you obtain nationality after 4 months.
Non EU must apply for permanent residency and wait for that before nationality application.
BECASSE - Me.
The facts is even if you are entitled doesnt mean its fast or simple. I have a friend whose lived here 20 years plus. Fluent in local language can show intergration in their commune but not worked here. When she went into the commune the first person was really negative and said they would add a comment to the application saying she shouldn't get it. They went away came back when that person was at lunch and next person completely opposite and happy to pass it along. Of course it was granted but just an examole that it depends on who looks at your papers
