Fedasil is committed to helping asylum seekers participate in the Belgian society. During their stay in the reception network, their life does not have to be on pause. Work can play a crucial role here.
For the residents of our reception network, a job means much more than an income: it is also a meaningful daytime activity which helps them acquire skills, build a network and facilitate their integration. Residents who work also contribute to society. A lot of employers are looking for workers for (bottleneck) vacancies, and residents from the reception centres are highly motivated to fill those positions.
Participation in Society
The participation in society and the autonomy of asylum seekers has been a priority for Fedasil for several years. This vision is also supported by political authorities.
To this end, Fedasil established in 2021 a service called "Participation in Society" that aims, among other things, to improve labour market access for asylum seekers. In addition to employment, the service will also develop the coming years projects around sociocultural activities - such as volunteering or leisure activities - as well as trainings.
Access to employment
Fedasil targets employers and employment agencies as well as residents who work in the reception centres. In this respect, the Agency concluded cooperation agreements with VDAB, FOREM and Actiris and is building a broad partner network that helps guide residents on their way to work. Permanences to meet the demands and questions regarding employment and job days are also organised in the reception centres.
In addition, Fedasil wants to provide correct information about the Belgian labour market to the residents and to raise their awareness about risks such as undeclared work or labour exploitation, together with their partner Fairwork Belgium. The service also aims to remove barriers in terms of mobility, digital skills, access to banks…
Access to the labour market? Asylum seekers are granted access to the labour market in Belgium four months after their asylum application. Asylum seekers who work retain the right to reception and material assistance but contribute financially to the reception provided by Fedasil.
Want to know more? All questions and suggestions about the initiatives regarding the employment of asylum seekers can be sent to work@fedasil.be! Interested employers may also consult the FAQ and the syllabus of Fairwork attached.