Belgian MPs approve contested home-entry bill after overnight debate

The Chamber of Representatives approved the bill shortly after 5am on Friday, following an overnight debate, Belgian news agency Belga reported.

The measure is aimed at people who are considered a danger to public order or national security and who have not complied with a decision that they cannot remain in Belgium. A judge must authorise entry to a home, Dutch news agency ANP reported, citing VRT News.

An earlier version approved by a parliamentary committee required reasonable grounds for considering the person a danger, an enforceable removal, return or transfer measure, and a failure to cooperate with it. It also said entry must be necessary and proportionate, and that no effective, less intrusive measure could be available. An application for entry could not be made against a minor.

Left-wing opposition parties have called the measure a violation of human rights. Lawyers, investigating judges and federal police also raised objections during parliamentary hearings, including concerns that the meaning of a danger to public order or security was unclear, Belga reported. They said investigating judges could already order searches in such cases under existing law.

The committee version proposed that the law take effect on 1 March 2027, while allowing for an earlier date. The final text approved by the chamber was not yet available in its register.