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Voluntary return is an option available to people who wish to return to their country of origin in a safe, organised and dignified manner. It is open to applicants for international protection, people whose application has been rejected, beneficiaries of international protection who wish to return voluntarily, and migrants without a valid residence permit. Return counsellors and social workers provide objective information and support to people who wish to consider this option.

Voluntary return team

In Belgium, the voluntary return programme is coordinated by Fedasil, in cooperation with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) and Caritas International Belgium.

People wishing to obtain information can contact their social worker, a Fedasil return desk, or IOM or Caritas International directly. Up-to-date information is also available through Fedasil's services.

Informing asylum seekers

Applicants for international protection receive information about voluntary return at different stages of their procedure, including during their stay in the reception network and, where applicable, after receiving a negative decision or an order to leave the Belgian territory.

If you are staying in a reception centre and are considering voluntary return, you can ask your social worker for advice. They can refer you to a return counsellor, who will explain the available options and the assistance for which you may be eligible.

The return journey is organised from Belgium to your country of destination. Travel arrangements are made confidentially and, whenever possible, take your personal circumstances into account.

Return path for asylum seekers

To organise the journey, Fedasil works mainly with the IOM, which arranges travel bookings and, where appropriate, provides assistance before and during the journey. The programme generally includes:

• organisation of the journey;
• payment of international travel costs;
• pre-departure assistance;
• additional support for vulnerable persons or people with specific medical needs, where necessary.

Depending on the country of destination and the individual's situation, assistance may also be provided upon arrival.

Return and reintegration assistance

Depending on your country of return and your personal situation, the programme may include financial or material reintegration assistance.

This support is assessed individually and may be used, for example, to:

• start a small business;
• undertake vocational training;
• cover certain medical expenses;
• secure or renovate housing;
• support other projects that facilitate sustainable reintegration.

The eligibility criteria and the amount of assistance vary according to the country of return and the individual's personal circumstances.

Assisting migrants without a residence permit

People who are not staying in a reception centre may also request assistance for voluntary return.

Fedasil return desks and their partner organisations provide information, assess available return options and assist people wishing to prepare a voluntary return.

People who have received an order to leave the territory may also receive counselling about voluntary return before any removal measures are implemented.

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Tips for LGBTQIA+ individuals:

• Voluntary return is entirely voluntary. You should not agree to return if you believe that your life, freedom or physical integrity would be at risk in your country of origin because of your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression or sex characteristics.
• Before making a decision, discuss your situation with your lawyer, your social worker or an organisation specialising in supporting LGBTQIA+ people.
• If your personal circumstances have changed since you applied for international protection (for example, if you have come out, started or completed a gender transition, or experienced new threats), make sure your lawyer is aware of these developments before considering voluntary return.
• If you nevertheless decide to return voluntarily, ask about the reintegration assistance available and whether there are trusted local organisations that may be able to support you after your return.

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