Audio recording of personal interview & age assessment
Update Explained
From 12 June 2026, a major change in the processing of international protection applications in Belgium will occur with the implementation of new rules as part of the Asylum and Migration Pact. Notably, an audio recording will be made of every personal interview for applications submitted on or after this date. For applications submitted before this date, recordings will commence from when the new amendments to the Aliens Act take effect. These recordings will be used as evidence only at the appeal stage of a negative decision. Applicants, along with their legal representatives and interpreters, can listen to these recordings by appointment, ensuring that privacy and data security are maintained. Another significant change involves the age assessment process for self-declared unaccompanied minors applying for international protection. If doubts arise regarding an applicant's age, a comprehensive, multidisciplinary assessment, including psychosocial evaluations, will be conducted. Physical or behavioral appearances alone will not suffice, and medical examinations will be considered only as a last resort. This age assessment will occur at the time of application registration, and if the applicant is unable to adequately participate initially, a follow-up interview will be scheduled promptly.
What changed
Audio recordings of personal interviews for international protection will be implemented, and a detailed age assessment procedure for minors will be established.
Why it matters
As of 12 June 2026, all personal interviews conducted as part of international protection applications in Belgium will be recorded and available for review at the appeal stage. The age assessment for minors will involve a detailed evaluation process that considers multiple facets of the applicant's profile.
Who is affected
- Applicants for international protection in Belgium
- Self-declared unaccompanied minor applicants
Key dates
Effective
Jun 12, 2026
Commencement date for the new procedures under the Asylum and Migration Pact.
Key details
- Personal interviews will be recorded for applications submitted on or after 12 June 2026.
- The age assessment process will involve a multidisciplinary assessment and potential medical examination.
Important notes
Both the audio recording implementation and the age assessment procedure are based on a draft bill that has not yet been definitively adopted or published and are subject to change.