Around 40 international students unable to enroll at Ghent Uni due to visa issues

“In recent years, we have seen an increasing number of problems with visa applications from international students and researchers,” says Wim Hoste. “People from Bangladesh, India, Morocco and other African countries simply cannot get here. Yet they have passed Ghent University’s rigorous selection process and meet the strict requirements set by the authorities. Things go wrong when they apply for a visa.”

Hoste describes this as a wider problem and calls for a decisive solution. The news of the fresh problems comes after difficulties with the visa application of 13 students from Gaza, which sparked debate in the federal government. ‘This really isn’t just about Gaza. Embassies and consulates systematically forward students’ applications to the Immigration Office (DVZ). The DVZ is unable to process the files in time, which means the students cannot leave for Belgium – even though their paperwork is completely in order.’

Administrative processing can drag on

The DVZ confirms that applications are numerous and that deadlines are not always met. “Embassies and consulates grant approval when there is a very strong case. The other cases are sent to the DVZ in Brussels for assessment, often all at the same time,” says spokesperson Paulien Blondeel.

Hoste says the delays are outrageous. “Students and researchers spend months getting everything in order. They have to have 12,000 euros in a blocked account and also pay for the increasingly expensive applications. And then things go wrong in the administration. We’re missing out on top talent as a result.”

“In the meantime, the conditions on being able to stay here during their academic careers have also become stricter. Governments don’t seem to grasp that these top talents represent enormous added value. They aren’t just anyone, but people who truly excel in their disciplines.” Hoste estimates that there are nearly 10,000 foreign students and researchers working across Flanders.

‘Our knowledge-based economy needs highly skilled professionals’

Industry federations Agoria and VOKA have not commented on specific issues but support the general call for action. “Our technology companies, knowledge institutions and research centres need these high-calibre professionals to remain innovative and competitive. We cannot afford to lose them. Especially now that the recent PISA results show that the number of high-calibre professionals in our own country is declining,” says Jan Gatz of Agoria.

“In Ghent, there is a thriving (bio)tech scene where international talent is in huge demand. There is clearly competition to attract people, including from other countries. So, the red tape must be kept to a minimum,” adds Arne Oosthuyse of VOKA.

“These people are developing new techniques, procedures and materials here. We benefit from these innovations, and they also pay off. Without these students, we will quickly fall behind internationally. Our governments are making things difficult for these people, whilst other countries – such as Canada – are specifically targeting these top-tier profiles. There, they are actually allocating more money for this in the budget,” says Hoste.

Hoste disagrees with the assessment recently made by Minister Anneleen Van Bossuyt (Flemish nationalist N-VA). In a report on the 13 students from Gaza who wanted to come here, she stated that she feared a domino effect.

“There is absolutely no evidence to support this. The minister is making an unfounded statement about people who are ambitious and want to contribute to our society.”

Last year, the faculty was expecting three people from Gaza. They never arrived.