Conviction for serious offences could lead to loss of nationality
People convicted of serious offences such as organised crime, homicide or sex offences risk losing their Belgian nationality after the House of Representatives approved a bill on Thursday evening.
The reform significantly expands and strengthens the rules on deprivation of nationality. The provision previously existed but was limited in scope and often required an explicit request by the public prosecutor. It was largely applied to terrorists.
“Those guilty of serious crimes that undermine the foundations of our society can lose their Belgian citizenship,” said Justice minister Annelies Verlinden, describing the measure as “a powerful signal”.
'Threat to society'
Revoking nationality can only be done under specific conditions. The person must have been convicted of organised crime, homicide or sex offences, they must be “serious crimes that pose a fundamental threat to society” and there must be a sentence of at least five years of effective imprisonment.
In addition, it is only possible if the person acquired Belgian nationality within the 15 years before the offence. There is also a 15-year limitation period for bringing the claim.
Verlinden’s bill also introduces an automatic withdrawal of Belgian nationality for those convicted of terrorism who have dual nationality. A court may decide not to revoke the nationality, but it must give explicit reasons for its decision.
The reform aligns with the coalition’s broader approach to migration and integration, with a focus on stricter control, stronger sanctions for serious misconduct and linking citizenship privileges with societal obligations.
Vehicular homicide
Also on Thursday, the Chamber approved the introduction of vehicular homicide into the Criminal Code. The current text, which will come into force on 8 April, provides for a level 3 penalty for anyone who causes a fatal traffic collision.
The penalty can be up to five years in prison and a fine of 10,000 euros, and applies regardless of the reason for the incident, whether it was due to inattention or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The criminal concept of vehicular homicide already exists in other countries. In England, Wales, the Netherlands and most US states, causing death as a motorist is a specific offence. The concept was introduced recently in France.
Minister of Justice Annelies Verlinden at the federal parliament in Brussels, 29 January 2026 © BELGA PHOTO ELIAS ROM
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