The EU's new visa-free travel regime with three Balkan countries, Macedonia, Serbia and Montenegro has led to a sudden increase of asylum seekers in Belgium, with the European Commission urging for containment. Since January 1, 2010, more than 400 Macedonian citizens have applied for asylum in Belgium, which is more than the total applications filed during all of 2009. Similar numbers are seen for Serbian asylum applications. However, it is nearly impossible for citizens from visa-free travel countries to be granted aslyum status and these migrants would be misled with the idea they would receive shelter and money once they are here. But once the applicants are refused asylum status by the authorities, they will be asked to leave the country voluntarily or through readmission procedures. Melchior Wathelet, Belgium Secretary of State for Immigration and Asylum, will be visiting Serbia next week to inform of the reality of the immigration procedures in Belgium. Yves Leterme, Belgium Prime Minister, will also discuss the issue with its Macedonian and Serbian counterparts next week.

VIDEOS AVAILABLE

Interview with Melchior Wathelet, Belgium Secretary of State for Immigration and Asylum.
Duration: 02:32'
Shot in Brussels, In English. 4/3.

Interview with Alexandra Stiglmayer, Senior Expert for the European Stability Initiative (ESI).
Duration: 04:45'
Shot in Brussels, In English. 4/3.

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