European Commission adopts first-ever EU Visa Strategy, pledging faster, more secure processing
New five-year EU Migration Strategy signals tougher returns and fresh talent partnerships
Belgian rail unions file urgent appeal after HR Rail blocks February strike notice
Latest News
NMBS chief brands frequency of rail strikes ‘no longer reasonable’, urges new social pact
NMBS CEO Sophie Dutordoir says the spate of rail strikes is damaging passenger confidence and business productivity, pressing unions to conclude a lasting social pact. Persistent unrest forces corporates to budget for alternative travel and revisit tele-work policies.
Belgian Embassy in Canberra confirms VFS Global will remain sole filing channel for all visas
Belgium’s embassy in Canberra has confirmed that visa applications for Australia and New Zealand residents must be lodged exclusively via VFS Global centres, ending direct postal submissions. Corporates must build extra lead time into mobility schedules to secure appointments and comply with new regional fees.
EU adopts first-ever Visa Strategy and Talent Attraction Recommendation
The European Commission unveiled its first EU Visa Strategy and a talent-attraction Recommendation on 29 January 2026. The package combines tougher controls on visa-free travel with plans to digitise applications fully and offer longer multiple-entry visas, while urging Member States to create quicker, simpler residence routes for innovators and skilled workers. Belgium will need to adapt consular, border-control and single-permit procedures in response, making the news highly relevant to employers moving staff into or through Belgium.
Belgian Embassy in Rome tightens payment rules for Single-Permit visa applicants
Effective immediately, Belgium’s embassy in Rome requires the €180 Single-Permit visa fee to be received five working days before an appointment. Applicants lacking proof of payment will be refused entry, potentially delaying project start dates. HR teams must adjust timelines and pre-brief assignees to avoid costly re-scheduling.