Integration programme in Brussels: what are your obligations?

PUBLISHED ON 23/06/2026

Certain newly arrived migrants in the Brussels-Capital Region are required to undertake an integration programme. Organised by both French‑speaking and Dutch‑speaking operators, this programme includes a reception module, citizenship training, and, where necessary, language courses.

Who is required to undertake the programme? Are there exemptions? Which bodies are responsible? The Expat Welcome Desk outlines the main rules and procedures you need to know.

What is the integration programme?

There are two integration programmes in Brussels:

The French‑speaking programme, organised by the Commission Communautaire Française (COCOF) [French Community Commission]
The Dutch‑speaking programme, organised by the Flemish Community

Although managed by different bodies, both programmes pursue the same aim: to support newcomers as they settle in Belgium.

The programme generally includes:

A welcoming module

This first module makes it possible to:

Obtain information on the rights and obligations of residents in Belgium.
Complete an individual assessment to identify your needs in areas such as housing, health, training, integration into society and the workforce, or any other relevant matter.

Citizenship training

This training helps you better understand:

How Belgian institutions function
Democratic values
Available public services
Daily life in Belgium

Language courses

Depending your situation and level, you may be eligible for:

French as a foreign language courses
Or Dutch as a foreign language courses

The courses are adapted to your level and currently cover levels up to A2.

Additional activities

Depending on the chosen operator, other optional activities may be offered:

Thematic workshops and activities
Specific training courses
Various meetings and events

How is required to undergo the integration programme?

The programme is primarily geared to first‑time arrivals who meet all the following conditions:

You are a foreign national (not Belgian);
You are registered for the first time in the register of foreign nationals of a Brussels municipality with a residence permit of more than three months;
You are between 18 and 65 years old at the time of registration;
You have been legally resident in Belgium for less than three years.

Holders of a C/K, D/L, E+ or F+ card are not considered priority and are not required to undergo the programme, as they have already been residing legally in Belgium for more than three years. They may, however, enrol voluntarily.

Who is exempt?

Certain categories of people are exempt from having to undergo the integration programme.

The main exemptions include:

EU citizens and equivalent categories

This includes:

Citizens of the European Union
Nationals of the European Economic Area
Swiss citizens
Certain British nationals covered by the Withdrawal Agreement (M card)

Family members of an EU citizen

The exemption may also apply to:

Spouses
Partners recognised as equivalent to marriage
Dependent children or children under 21
Dependent relatives in the ascending line

Temporary stays

You are also exempt if your right of residence is limited to a temporary activity such as:

A single permit
Studies
An internship
An exchange programme
Diplomatic activity
A working-holiday visa
An au pair placement

Other exemption situations

The exemption also applies if:

You are a long‑term resident in another EU Member State and have already met integration requirements
You benefit from temporary protection granted to Ukrainian refugees
You hold a diploma or certificate obtained in Belgian education
You suffer from a serious illness or disability that permanently prevents participation

An application for exemption may be submitted at any time until your file is closed.

A programme that remains available even on a voluntary basis

Even if you are not required to undergo the programme, you may choose to do so voluntarily.

This may be particularly useful in order to:

Improve your language skills;
Understand Belgian society better;
Develop your social and professional network;
Prepare for future administrative procedures.

Note, however, that French‑speaking operators currently have waiting lists for non‑priority participants, whereas the Dutch‑speaking operator BON currently has no waiting list.