Belgium (Washington Insider Magazine) – Belgian authorities have decided not to renew the work permits of five Turkish imams after discovering they received funding from the Turkish government, violating a recent ban on foreign financing.
Why Are Their Work Permits Being Revoked?
Foreign funding ban: Since May 2024, Belgium has prohibited economic migrants, including religious leaders, from receiving funds from foreign governments.
Screening results: The imams, who worked in Antwerp, Sint-Niklaas, Ghent, Diest, and Lommel, were flagged during a Flemish government review.
Concerns over foreign influence: Flemish Minister Zuhal Demir emphasized that government interference cannot be ignored.
What Happens Next?
Three months to find a new job—if they fail, Belgium’s Federal Immigration Office may expel them.
60 days to appeal—if they choose to challenge the decision.
Automatic residence permit revocation: EU rules dictate that a lapsed work permit leads to residence permit loss.
Belgium’s Changing Work Permit Rules
October 2024: Brussels introduces new salary-based thresholds for work permits.
Updated EU Blue Card rules: Now accepts five years of experience as an alternative to a diploma for skilled workers.
Belgium’s stance on foreign-funded religious leaders reflects broader efforts to limit external influence in domestic affairs.
