Registering of the application for comprises the following steps:
- Establish identity
At the time of registration, the IO establishes the applicant's identity (surname, first name, date of birth, place of birth, nationality). This procedure is preferably carried out on the basis of the identity documents in the applicant's possession. However, if the applicant does not have any identity documents, the data is recorded based on the applicant's statements.
Consequently, if the applicant has original identity documents, or a copy of such documents, it is essential that they bring them to the IO.
- Obtain other relevant information
To complete the registration, the IO checks how long the applicant has been in Belgium, whether they already have a residential address in Belgium and whether they need accommodation.
The applicant will also be asked whether he wishes to be assisted by an interpreter further in the procedure.
- Identify potential vulnerabilities of the applicant
During the registration process, the applicant is asked about possible vulnerabilities. It is essential that the applicant identifies any vulnerabilities that may affect the continuation of the procedure and which need to be taken into account.
The applicant can always provide additional information or elements at a later stage in the procedure.
- Inform the applicant about their rights and obligations
As an applicant for international protection, they are entitled to certain rights, but must also respect a number of obligations. The applicant is informed of these at the time of registration.
Thus, the applicant for international protection has the right to reception and can obtain material assistance from .
Please note: the right to reception may be limited.
Furthermore, the applicant for international protection is protected against . Throughout the international protection procedure, the applicant may not be returned to their country of origin, except in the cases provided for by the Law of 15 December 1980 (Articles 39/70 and 49/3/1).
The applicant for international protection is always obliged to tell the truth and cooperate fully during the procedure.
If they have identity documents, they are obliged to present them as soon as possible when the application is registered.
The applicant is also obliged to submit, as soon as possible, any other information that may help the competent authorities to determine the Member State responsible or to examine the application.
What are the important documents?
Important documents include all documents concerning the applicant's age, background (including that of relevant family members), identity, nationality(ies), country(ies) and place(s) of previous residence, information on previous applications for international protection, itinerary(ies), identity documents, etc., as well as any other documents that may demonstrate the problems encountered in the country of origin
Withholding documents or refusing to submit certain documents may indicate a lack of cooperation.
This lack of cooperation may result in the applicant being held in a specific place while the application is examined or the application being processed by the CGRS on an accelerated basis, if Belgium is entitled to process the application.
- Collect biometric data
When the application is registered, an IO takes the applicant's photo and fingerprints. Digital fingerprints are used to check whether the applicant is already known to the Immigration Office or to another Dublin Member State (illegal entry, application for international protection, visa).
The photo is attached to the administrative file and is affixed to the various documents that the applicant will receive from the IO as part of its procedure.