There have been cases of Belgian nationality being granted to foreigners with merely a temporary right of residence, including low-grade staff members of diplomatic representations.

Moreover, candidates who have so far to prove three years of lawful residence will, in future, be required to complete five years of residence before being eligible to apply.

Candidates will also have to demonstrate their willingness to integrate into Belgian society and provide proof of knowledge of one of the three national languages, namely French, Dutch or German.

In addition, children born in Belgium to foreign parents are only entitled to Belgian citizenship upon reaching the age of 18 if they can prove three years of residence, instead of one year at present.

18 May 2010 . Migration News Sheet . All rights reserved.