The debate over Brussels student child benefits has taken a new turn as officials consider tightening eligibility rules. Unlike Flanders and Wallonia, Brussels still allows foreign students to claim child benefits, a policy under scrutiny amid budget pressures. On 2025-06-17 17:07:00, Brussels parliament member Benjamin Dalle highlighted the unsustainable nature of this system given the worsening financial outlook.
- Foreign students in Brussels receive child benefits.
- Benjamin Dalle calls system financially unsustainable.
- Non-EU student numbers expected to increase.
- New rules exclude third-country students from benefits.
- Reform saves Brussels €700,000 in 2025.
- Long-term savings could reach €20 million yearly.
Dalle points out that the rising number of non-EU students, many holding visas and supported by their home countries’ child benefits, adds strain to Brussels’ budget. Could this lead to a significant policy shift affecting thousands of students? The proposed reform aims to exclude new students from third countries, Switzerland, and the European Economic Area from receiving child benefits starting September.
How will this impact Brussels’ future finances and student welfare? The upcoming parliamentary vote will be decisive, with potential savings that could reshape the region’s budget priorities.
This reform raises questions about fairness and financial sustainability. Is it right to cut benefits for students who may rely on them? Or is Brussels simply prioritizing its strained budget? Key points include:
- The system currently allows foreign students to claim child benefits unlike other Belgian regions.
- Projected savings start at €700,000 in 2025, potentially reaching €20 million yearly.
- Existing beneficiaries will keep their rights, limiting immediate disruption.
- The measure targets mainly non-EU students, visa holders, and those from the EEA and Switzerland.
As Brussels moves forward, stakeholders should monitor the parliamentary decision closely. Will this lead to better fiscal health or create new challenges for international students? The coming months will reveal how this policy shapes the future of student support in the capital.
