#Belgium Schengen Visa

[belgiumvisas]

Belgium Visa Appointment From London UK - Check Complete Details

Belgium Visas Is the best website for get online Belgium Visa appointment. We provide many types of visas like Tourist Visa, Business Visa, Student Visa etc. Our Visa Price is Very Friendly for every traveller. Here you can check and Apply Belgium Visa according to your needs. Fill out a simple online Belgium visa appointment form and avail round the clock support to get your preferred visa to Belgium online in just 3-4 days. For more information visit our site and stay tuned with us.

[ingesthappiness]

Upcoming: Our journey to securing a Schengen visa, budget-friendly advice, delectable must-try cuisine, top tourist destinations, and the hurdles we faced during our vacation.

[lionheartlr]

Exploring Belgium: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Belgium, a charming country nestled in Western Europe, offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and modernity. This guide will take you through Belgium’s history, colonial past, political landscape, education system, and practical travel information, ensuring a delightful and informed visit. A Brief History of Belgium Belgium’s history is a blend of influences from Roman times to modern-day…

[beardedmrbean]

WARSAW, Poland (AP) — The German government says it is cracking down on irregular migration and crime following recent extremist attacks, and plans to extend temporary border controls to all nine of its frontiers next week.

Last month, a deadly knife attack by a Syrian asylum-seeker in Soligen killed three people. The perpetrator claimed to be inspired by the Islamic State group. In June, a knife attack by an Afghan immigrant left a police officer dead and four other people wounded.

The border closures are set to last six months and are threatening to test European unity. Most of Germany’s neighbors are fellow members of the European Union, a 27-country bloc based on the principles of free trade and travel. And Germany — the EU’s economic motor in the heart of Europe — shares more borders with other countries than any other member state.

The Polish prime minister on Tuesday denounced the closures as “unacceptable” and Austria said it won’t accept migrants rejected by Germany.

Here’s a look at some of the issues:

How do Europeans travel currently?

The EU bloc has a visa-free travel area known as Schengen that allows citizens of most EU countries to travel easily across borders for work and pleasure. Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland also belong to Schengen even though they are not EU members.

According to the EU, member states are allowed to temporarily reintroduce controls at the EU’s so-called internal borders in case of a serious threat, such as one to internal security. But it also says border controls should be applied as a last resort in exceptional situations, and must be time-limited.

Such limitations are often put in place during major sporting events, including the recent Olympic Games in Paris and the European soccer championship this summer.

What’s Germany doing now?

Nine countries border Germany and all are part of Schengen. Germany already imposed restrictions last year at its borders with Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria and Switzerland.

Germany’s Interior Ministry on Monday ordered the extension of checks at those borders, as well as controls at borders with France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Belgium and Denmark.

Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said the aim was to limit irregular migration and protect the nation from “the acute dangers posed by Islamist terrorism and serious crime.”

Growing backlash against migration

The government and many Germans welcomed refugees fleeing conflicts in Syria and elsewhere from 2015-16, when more than 1 million asylum-seekers entered the country.

But as large-scale migration to Europe continues nearly a decade later, a backlash is fueling the growth of far-right parties.

Some people say social services are overwhelmed, and extremist attacks by asylum-seekers have led to security fears. It has added up to growing support for firmer immigration policies — and in some cases, backing for the far-right parties that champion such limits.

The unpopular coalition government of Chancellor Olaf Scholz is trying to crack down on irregular immigration after the far right did well in two recent state elections in eastern Germany. Another comes Sept. 22 in Brandenburg, the state surrounding Berlin.

Economic worries

As the EU’s largest economy, Germany is a key trading partner for neighbors. The interior ministry’s announcement has prompted economic worries for the main Dutch transportation lobby group, the Dutch Association for Transport and Logistics. It said the decision was undermining the Schengen principle of free trade and it fears major economic damage.

At home, Germany’s DSLV logistics and freight association urged a selective approach that would spare trucks moving goods across borders — which would mirror what occurred during the European soccer championships. Those checks avoided economic disruptions because officials focused on individuals and not trucks, the association said.

Dirk Jandura, the president of the Federation of German Wholesale, Foreign Trade and Services, said in an statement to The Associated Press that restrictions on the free movement of people “always mean delays and thus cost increases for the economy and especially for wholesale and foreign trade.”

He added: “However, if migration policy findings require restrictive measures, then this is understandable. For us, it is important to implement the measures with a sense of proportion.”

Political repercussions

The ruling conservative government in Austria — which is facing a tight race against the far-right party in an election this month — says it will not accept refugees who are turned back from Germany.

Interior Minister Gerhard Karner told reporters that Germany has the right to send people back if another EU country is responsible for their asylum application. But that would require a formal procedure and the consent of the member state concerned.

Meanwhile, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk called Germany’s plan “unacceptable” and called for urgent consultations by all countries affected. Poland has struggled with a migration crisis on its border with Belarus since 2021. Warsaw accuses Belarus and Russia of luring migrants from the Middle East and Africa there to destabilize the West.

Agnieszka Łada-Konefał, deputy director of the German Institute of Polish Affairs, said random checks at the German-Polish border create traffic jams that make it more difficult for people to cross for work and discourage Germans from shopping in Poland. Poles also argue that Germany first introduced a policy of openness to refugees but is now pushing them back to Poland.

“Due to the negative perception of the influx of migrants in Poland, any report of migrants being returned by Germany also negatively affects Polish-German relations and Germany’s image in Poland,” Łada-Konefał told the AP.

But in the Netherlands, where the anti-immigration Party for Freedom won last year’s election, the minister for asylum and migration pledged to step up Dutch border controls as well.

Slovenia, Austria and Italy also have extended temporary border controls in some areas or all along their frontiers.

[head-post]

Germany expands border controls, angers EU neighbours

Germany is expanding border controls at its borders with all nine of its neighbours from Monday to stop illegal migrants, prompting protests from other EU members.

Berlin announced the sweeping measure on Sunday after a series of deadly terrorist attacks that sparked public fear and boosted support for the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.

Interior Minister Nancy Faeser said the move was aimed at curbing illegal migration and “putting an end to criminals, identifying and stopping them at an early stage.”

The border controls will be in place for six months and are expected to include temporary facilities at land border crossings and random checks by federal police. Poland and Austria have expressed concern and the European Commission has warned that members of the 27-nation bloc should only introduce such measures in exceptional cases.

Germany is at the heart of Europe and borders nine countries that are part of the visa-free Schengen zone, designed for the free movement of people and goods.

Before the restrictions were announced, border controls were already in place with Poland, the Czech Republic, Austria and Switzerland. They will now be extended to Germany’s borders with France, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Belgium and Denmark.

Faeser also said the government hoped to minimise the impact on people living and working in the border regions and promised “coordination with neighbouring countries.”

Spike in crimes

Germany has been rocked by a string of extremist attacks in recent weeks, fuelling public anger.

Last month, a knife-wielding male attacker killed three people and injured eight others at a festival in the western city of Solingen. The Syrian suspect, allegedly linked to the Islamic State group, was destined for deportation but managed to evade authorities.

The enforcement failure has sparked fierce debate ahead of two regional elections in the country’s former communist east, where the anti-immigration AfD party posted unprecedented results.

With national elections looming next year, Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s government is under intense political pressure to toughen its stance on migrants and asylum seekers.

Read more HERE

[visanooks]

What is Schengen visa and what I need to do to get one?

There are several types of visas you can opt for when you decide to migrate to or just pay a visit to your relative in a foreign country like Canada or USA. There is this work visa, study visa, tourist visa and other visas issued by the country you are heading to.  Can I get Schengen visa in week in Chennai? It depends on the type of visa and the country you are traveling to otherwise it is possible for you to get a visa in just one week.  Visa processing takes at least 3 working days by the concerned embassy so it is possible that you can apply for the Schengen visa and get it processed with the help of a visa/Immigration consultancy in Chennai.  This time period we have said above starts from the day you submitted your visa application. With the help of an experienced immigration expert service you will be able to land a Schengen visa within 7 days.

What is a Schengen visa?

A Schengen visa is a short stay visa and you can obtain this and visit those countries that are within the Schengen Area list and there are 26 of them including

Austria

Belgium

Czech Republic

Denmark

Finland

France

Estonia

Germany

Greece

Hungary

Iceland

Italy

Latvia

Lithuania

Liechtenstein

Malta

Luxemburg

Netherlands

Norway

Portugal

Poland

Slovakia

Spain

Slovenia

Sweden

Switzerland

 If you wish to travel to any of the above countries you will have to secure the following requirement:

Valid passport

Application form duly completed

Recent passport size photos

Travel itinerary

Proof of accommodation

Proof of financial resources

Travel insurance

Documents relevant to the purpose of visit, namely work, study or tourism etc

Are there different types of Schengen Visas?

Yes, there are

Tourist visa – up to 90 days

Transit visa – up to 5 days

Business visa – up to 90 days

Student visas – long term

Work visa – long term

Benefits of the Schengen visa

You can travel freely within the above 26 countries with this visa.

Simple application process

Reduced waiting period

Increased security and cooperation among the member countries

The Schengen visa requirement may vary with your nationality and purpose. It also depends on the days you will spend there.

You will have to consult the Best Canada immigration consultants in Chennai. if you want to swiftly process the visa and board the plane as soon as possible. There are experienced consultancy services in Chennai that are well versed with the visa process and how to apply and get visas processed quickly by the relevant embassies. Without their help you will find yourself left out in confusion so it is advised that you see the consultant to quicken the visa process. 

[roomchailimited]

Bangladesh to Brussels: Roomchai's Schengen Exploration of Belgium's Capital

Begin an extraordinary adventure from the bustling streets of Dhaka to the enchanting cityscape of Brussels with Roomchai Limited’s Schengen exploration package. Brussels, the capital of Belgium, is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and modernity, offering a rich tapestry of experiences for every traveler. With Roomchai Limited, your journey is meticulously planned to ensure a hassle-free and enriching travel experience, from securing visas to crafting personalized itineraries that cater to your interests.

The Journey: From Dhaka to Brussels

Your journey begins with Roomchai Limited's expert assistance in navigating the complexities of Schengen visa applications, ensuring all documentation and requirements are handled efficiently. Once your visa is secured, Roomchai arranges flights that offer the best routes and comfort, ensuring you arrive in Brussels ready to explore. Their team also provides pre-departure tips and insights into Brussels' weather, cultural norms, and essential travel advice, making sure you are well-prepared for your adventure.

Discovering Brussels: A City of Elegance and Charm

Historic Marvels: Brussels is home to a wealth of historic landmarks that showcase its rich heritage. The Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a must-visit with its stunning Gothic architecture and intricate facades of the guildhalls. Roomchai Limited offers guided tours that delve into the history and stories behind these remarkable buildings, providing a deeper understanding of Brussels' past.

Cultural Treasures: Brussels is a city steeped in culture and artistic expression. The Atomium, an architectural wonder from the 1958 World Expo, stands as a symbol of innovation and offers breathtaking views of the city. Roomchai’s exclusive access tours to the Royal Palace provide a glimpse into the opulence of Belgian royalty, while their cultural tours highlight the city’s diverse museums and galleries, including the BOZAR Centre for Fine Arts and the Museum of Natural Sciences.

Art and Museums: For art lovers, Brussels is a treasure trove. The Magritte Museum and the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium are just the beginning. Roomchai Limited's art tours are designed to guide you through the most significant collections, with insights from knowledgeable guides who bring the art and its history to life. Special attention is given to lesser-known galleries and art spaces that showcase contemporary Belgian artists.

Culinary Adventures: Belgium is synonymous with culinary excellence, and Brussels is the epicenter of this gastronomic tradition. From savoring the perfect Belgian waffle to indulging in decadent chocolates from the best chocolatiers, Roomchai Limited’s food tours are a journey through the city’s rich culinary landscape. Enjoy guided tastings of Belgian beers, each with its unique flavor profile, and experience the local dining scene with recommendations for the best spots to enjoy moules-frites and other Belgian delicacies.

Beyond Brussels: Day Trips and Excursions

Brussels' central location makes it an ideal base for exploring Belgium's other enchanting cities. Roomchai Limited offers day trips to the fairy-tale town of Bruges, known for its canals and medieval architecture; Ghent, with its vibrant arts scene and historical landmarks; and Antwerp, a city that blends tradition with modernity. Each excursion is carefully planned to provide a comprehensive experience, with guided tours that highlight the unique charm and attractions of these cities.

Why Choose Roomchai Limited?

Roomchai Limited distinguishes itself through its dedication to providing personalized, seamless travel experiences. Their deep local expertise ensures that every aspect of your trip, from visa assistance and travel logistics to curated tours and tailored itineraries, is handled with precision and care. The goal is to provide a travel experience that is as stress-free as it is enriching, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the wonders of Brussels and beyond.

Conclusion

Embark on a journey of discovery from Bangladesh to Brussels with Roomchai Limited. Explore the historic landmarks, cultural treasures, and culinary delights of Belgium’s capital, all meticulously planned and personalized to your preferences. Whether you're captivated by art, history, or food, Brussels offers a wealth of experiences that promise to enchant and inspire. Book your Schengen exploration with Roomchai Limited today and set off on an adventure that will create memories to last a lifetime.

[sageglobalresponse]

Japa: Top 10 easiest countries to get a Schengen Visa in 2024

For the summer of 2024, travelers aiming to secure a Schengen visa should consider applying to Iceland, Switzerland, Latvia, and Italy.

These countries are reported to boast the lowest rejection rates, making them the easiest to obtain visas from, according to recent data from Schengen Visa Statistics.

On the flip, those looking to travel to Europe might want to avoid applying for a Schengen visa through Malta, Estonia, and Belgium, as these countries have some of the highest rejection rates globally.

In 2023, Malta topped the list with a rejection rate of 37.6%, followed by Estonia at 33.1% and Belgium at 26.5%.

With Europe’s summer season extending until October, it is wise to plan ahead and consider the varying rejection rates across different Schengen member states.

Sweden and Croatia also have relatively high rejection rates at 23.1% and 20% respectively. On average, the rejection rate across all member states in 2023 stood at 54.2%.

For those seeking a multiple-entry Schengen visa, Germany remains a favorable option. New migration measures by Germany are set to facilitate Romania’s full accession to the Schengen area, potentially making the process even smoother.

For a higher chance of visa approval, prospective applicants can consider the following countries with the highest approval rates:

Countries easiest to secure Schengen Visa

Iceland: 2.2% rejection rate

Switzerland: 10.7%

Latvia: 11.7%

Italy: 12%

Luxembourg: 12.7%

Lithuania: 12.8%

Slovakia: 12.9%

Germany: 14.3%

Austria: 14.3%

Greece: 14.7%

[belgiumvisa]

Belgium Upcoming Festivals in 2023 - Book Visa Appointment Now

Are you ready to dive into the rich tapestry of Belgian culture and celebration? As 2023 unfolds, Belgium promises an array of captivating festivals that will leave you mesmerized. With BelgiumVisa.co.uk, you can now anticipate and plan your visit to Belgium's upcoming festivals. Get ready to experience the best of Belgium's festivities, and embark on a cultural journey that will linger in your memories forever.

Apply now - https://www.belgiumvisa.co.uk/apply-online.html

[aptechvisaglobalimmigration]

What is a Schengen visa?

A Schengen visa is an entry permit that allows non-EU citizens to enter any country in the Schengen area for a brief, transitory stay of up to 90 days during 180 days. There are three types of Schengen visas: A Single-Entry Visa – which permits one entry into the Schengen region; A Multiple-Entry Visa – which permits repeated visits to the Schengen region while the visa is in effect; An airport transit visa – When making a layover or changing planes, you can pass through the international transit section at an airport in the Schengen area if you have an airport transit visa. You are unable to exit the international transit area with it.

Which nations grant Schengen Visas?

Currently, 22 of the 26 European nations that make up the Schengen Area are EU members. There are no border checks between these 26 nations, and they all adhere to the same set of laws.

Austria,

Belgium,

Czech Republic,

Denmark,

 Estonia,

 Finland,

 France,

 Germany,

 Greece,

 Hungary,

 Iceland,

 Italy,

Latvia,

 Liechtenstein,

 Lithuania,

 Luxembourg,

 Malta,

 Netherlands,

Norway,

 Poland,

 Portugal,

Slovakia,

Slovenia,

Spain,

Sweden and

Switzerland are the nations that grant Schengen visas.

How long can you stay? The Schengen visa is applied as a sticker to the travel document and is valid for a brief visit. A “short stay” is defined as “90 days within 180 days.” This indicates that the maximum stay length is 90 days, in any 180-day time frame. Your visa sticker will have the exact duration of validity listed under the heading “Duration of visit.” A single-entry visa grants you only one entry into the Schengen area. This is indicated on the visa sticker under the heading “Number of entries” by the number “1”. A visa that permits two or more entries throughout its validity is known as a multiple-entry or two-entry visa. This can be seen in the

How much does a visa cost? The cost of a Schengen Visa for Adults is €90 while for children aged between 6 to 12 years, it is €45.

How to apply for it? 1. Choose the kind of visa. The first step is to ascertain which sort of visa you want based on the time length and area an applicant will be covering. 2. Start the application process. Start the process of applying for a visa. When you’re prepared to apply, kindly complete the application for a short-term or long-term (national) visa. 3. Make an appointment. Schedule a time to visit the visa application centre of your choosing.

4 Cover your costs. Determine how much you must pay. After submitting your application, you need to pay the visa application cost.

5. Go to a Centre for Visa Applications Keep your appointment as scheduled. 6 Monitor your submission Stay informed about the progress of your application. You can monitor the progress of your online visa application. To use this service, enter your last name and the Reference Number found on the invoice or receipt that the Visa Application Centre sends you. 7. Pick up your passport. Get your passport from the Center for Visa Application. You can pick up your passport and documentation from the Visa Application Center once your visa application has been approved, or for an extra charge, you can have your documents returned to you by courier.

What is the processing time for a Schengen Visa?

An application for a visa typically takes 15 days to process. If extra time is needed for a more thorough review of the application or to obtain more documentation, this time frame could be extended to up to 45 days.

 To understand how to apply for Schengen Visa all you need to do is give a call on, 7503832132, 9131059075 you can also refer to https://www.aptechvisa.com/ to learn more about Schengen Visa.

[belgiumvisas]

Apply Belgium Visa Online From UK -  Get Best Price With Offer

Good News for travelers apply Online Belgium Visa from UK available with NEXT DAY APPOINTMENT on the Belgium visas website. Here you can get all types of Belgium visas such as tourist, Visitor, Family & Friends, Business, EEA/EU citizens, Long stay, and Children between 6 - 12 & less than 6 years old. Here you can easily apply Belgium visa from UK in just few minutes. Belgium Visas Support team is always available for your help & Belgium Visa Fee is very affordable for everyone. For more information about Belgium visas application at London center so visit our site & Fill out the Belgium visa form.

[ezeevisa]

Austria business immigration | Belgium Schengen Visa interview tips | Czech Republic visa cancellation

Embark on Your Visa Journey with Ease: Introducing EzeeVisas Agency

In the intricate world of global travel, navigating visa requirements can often feel like a daunting task. That's where EzeeVisas Agency steps in, your trusted partner in simplifying the visa application process and turning your travel dreams into reality. Whether you're considering Austria for business immigration, seeking Schengen Visa interview tips for Belgium, or exploring options for Czech Republic visa cancellation, we've got you covered with our comprehensive range of visa services.

Seamless Business Immigration to Austria:

Austria, renowned for its vibrant business landscape and unparalleled quality of life, beckons entrepreneurs and professionals from around the globe. At EzeeVisas Agency, we specialize in facilitating business immigration to Austria, guiding you through every step of the process with precision and expertise. From navigating complex documentation requirements to offering invaluable insights into Austrian business culture, our dedicated team is committed to ensuring a seamless transition as you embark on your professional journey in this dynamic European nation.

Schengen Visa Interview Tips for Belgium:

Embarking on a journey to Belgium, the heart of Europe, is an exciting prospect. However, the Schengen Visa interview process can be a crucial determinant of your visa approval. That's where EzeeVisas Agency comes in, offering invaluable tips and guidance to help you ace your Schengen Visa interview with confidence. Our team of experts provides comprehensive insights into the interview process, equipping you with the knowledge and preparation you need to present your case effectively and secure your visa to Belgium without a hitch.

Expert Assistance with Czech Republic Visa Cancellation:

Sometimes, unforeseen circumstances may necessitate the cancellation of a visa, a process that can be daunting to navigate alone. At EzeeVisas Agency, we understand the complexities involved in visa cancellation and offer expert assistance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Whether you're seeking to cancel a Czech Republic visa due to changed travel plans or other reasons, our dedicated team is here to guide you through the process, providing personalized support every step of the way.

Why Choose EzeeVisas Agency?

At EzeeVisas Agency, we distinguish ourselves through our unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction, integrity, and professionalism. With a team of seasoned experts well-versed in visa regulations and procedures across various destinations, we offer tailored solutions to meet your specific needs and preferences. From providing transparent guidance and assistance to leveraging innovative technologies for a streamlined application process, we go above and beyond to ensure that your visa journey is smooth, efficient, and stress-free.

Experience the EzeeVisas Advantage:

Embark on your visa journey with confidence and peace of mind. Experience the EzeeVisas advantage and unlock a world of possibilities with our comprehensive visa services. Whether you're pursuing business opportunities in Austria, planning a leisurely trip to Belgium, or navigating visa cancellation for the Czech Republic, trust EzeeVisas Agency to be your reliable partner every step of the way.

Visit our website here to explore our full range of visa services and begin your visa application process today. Let EzeeVisas Agency pave the way for your next unforgettable travel experience.

[visaappointment-visasalert]

Urgent Schengen Visa Appointment

Securing a visa appointment, especially for urgent Schengen visa needs can be a daunting task. VisaAlert is here to transform that experience with our efficient and reliable service. Operating tirelessly, VisaAlert monitors visa center websites 24/7, ensuring you get the most up-to-date information on appointment availability. This feature significantly increases your chances of obtaining appointments, even in highly competitive situations. 

Why Choose VisaAlert for Your Urgent Schengen Visa Appointment?

Compared to other visa bot services, VisaAlert provides much faster monitoring and scanning of visa center websites. This ensures the most up-to-date information on appointment availability. We support 20 countries across all visa centers in the UK, offering our services at a cost ten times cheaper than traditional travel agencies, providing exceptional value for our users.

Our Service Coverage

VisaAlert supports visa appointment services for the following countries:

Schengen Visa Countries:

France 🇫🇷

Germany 🇩🇪

Italy 🇮🇹

Netherlands 🇳🇱

Spain 🇪🇸

Portugal 🇵🇹

Austria 🇦🇹

Finland 🇫🇮

Denmark 🇩🇰

Switzerland 🇨🇭

Croatia 🇭🇷

Norway 🇳🇴

Hungary 🇭🇺

Cyprus 🇨🇾

Czech Republic 🇨🇿

Estonia 🇪🇪

Lithuania 🇱🇹

Ireland 🇮🇪

Belgium 🇧🇪

Non-Schengen Countries:

USA 🇺🇸

Key Features

Real-Time Alerts: VisaAlert provides real-time notifications for available urgent Schengen visa appointment slots.

Automatic Booking: Our service can automatically secure appointments for you, enhancing your chances of getting a slot.

Comprehensive Coverage: We support visa centers in London, Manchester, and Edinburgh for all the countries listed above.

Affordable Pricing: VisaAlert offers services at a fraction of the cost of traditional travel agencies.

Secure Transactions: We use Stripe for secure payment processing, ensuring your financial data is protected with industry-standard encryption and security measures.

User-Friendly Interface: Our platform is designed to be intuitive and easy to navigate, making the process of booking a urgent Schengen visa appointment straightforward.

Flexible Notifications: Get notified via email or Telegram, according to your preference.

Subscription Model

VisaAlert operates on a 30-day, no-recurring subscription model. You can start the service by filling out the form and completing the payment on our website. Once the payment is confirmed, our service will automatically commence for a 30-day period. If you option for VisaAlert Pro, you will need to upload your account information or personal details onto our online system. This allows us to book appointments on your behalf.

Performance and Limitations

VisaAlert’s detection interval is less than 10 seconds for most countries, ensuring our service works around the clock. However, we cannot guarantee that VisaAlert will secure appointments on the requested date 100% of the time, as this can be influenced by various factors, such as whether the official website releases any availabilities or during peak seasons when slots can be booked within seconds. Refunds are not available once the service has started, but users can discontinue the service at any point within the 30-day period.

Get Started Today

If you need an urgent Schengen visa appointment, VisaAlert is your ultimate solution. Don't let the stress of securing a visa appointment hold you back. Sign up with VisaAlert today and experience the ease and efficiency of our top-notch service.

[beardedmrbean]

BRUSSELS (AP) — Abdesalem Lassoued had been denied residency in four European countries by the time he chased two Swedish men into a building in Brussels this week and gunned them down at close range with a semiautomatic rifle.

The 45-year-old Tunisian arrived on the Italian island of Lampedusa in a smuggler’s boat in 2011. He spent jail time in Sweden and was refused entry to Norway. At one point Italy flagged him as a security threat. Two years ago, Belgium rejected his asylum claim and he disappeared off the map.

Until Monday night, that is, when he killed the two Swedes, wounded a third and forced the lockdown of more than 35,000 people in a soccer stadium where they had gathered to watch Belgium play Sweden. In a video posted online, he claimed to be inspired by the Islamic State group.

Within days he has become the new face of the European Union’s campaign to toughen border controls, rapidly deport people and allow the police and security agencies to exchange information more efficiently.

“It’s important that those individuals that could be a security threat to our citizens, to our Union, have to be returned forcefully, immediately,” EU Home Affairs Commissioner Ylva Johansson told reporters on Thursday, as EU interior ministers met in Luxembourg.

Only around one in four people whose asylum applications are denied ever leave or are deported from the 27-nation bloc. Often the countries they come from, including Tunisia, are reluctant to take them back.

With EU countries constantly bickering over how to manage migration – their differences lie at the heart of one of the bloc’s biggest political crises – the European Commission has sought to outsource the challenge.

The EU’s executive branch has helped to seal deals with Turkey and Tunisia to persuade these countries to stop people from the Middle East or Africa – not to mention their own nationals – from trying to enter Europe, as they did in large numbers in 2015.

About 25 countries that people leave or transit to get to Europe are of concern. Egypt is the next country on the list. The commission is already helping to locate and pay for new boats for the Egyptian coastguard.

Belgium’s top migration official, Nicole de Moor, said that countries refusing to take back their nationals must be made to cooperate.

“The terrorist that committed an attack in Brussels on Monday had asked for asylum in four different European countries, and every time he was rejected because he did not qualify for protection,” de Moor said.

The EU does have coercive tools at its disposal. The commission has used visas as a lever, making it harder, more time-consuming and costly for the citizens of migration source countries to gain entry to Europe’s ID check-free zone – the 27-country space known as the Schengen area.

Thanks to this, Johansson said, the EU now has “much better cooperation” on deportation with Iraq, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Senegal.

The shooter Lassoued’s case was also marked by other failures. He applied for asylum in Belgium in 2019. His application was rejected a year later, and a deportation order was issued in 2021. Officials said this week that he couldn’t be found, as they had no address for him.

Within a few hours, admittedly with public help, prosecutors conceded, the authorities had discovered where he lived. He was shot dead by police at a café nearby the following morning when they tried to arrest him.

“It turns out that the individual had been convicted and had served time in a Swedish prison, which was unknown to our police and judiciary,” Belgian Interior Minister Annelies Verlinden told reporters.

“We need to improve the information exchange on these kinds of things. The man apparently arrived in Italy in 2011 (and) wandered around Europe for 12 years,” she said. Migration services and the police must share information, she said, “to ensure that this cannot happen.”

The clamor for tougher laws and better intelligence sharing are fresh, but the problem is not new. Lassoued’s case resembles that of another Tunisian man, Anis Amri, who drove a truck into a Christmas market in Berlin in 2016, killing 12 people and injuring 56 others.

German authorities tried to deport Amri after his asylum application was rejected but were unable to because he lacked valid identity papers. Tunisia had denied that he was a citizen.

On Tuesday, after leading security talks throughout the night while the hunt for Lassoued went on, Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo loosened his tie from around his collar as he answered a reporter’s thorny question about the failings of Belgium’s police, justice and migration services.

“An order to leave the territory must become more binding that it is now,” De Croo conceded. “We have to respect the decisions that we take.”