BAPA

The Bapas' French- or Dutch-language integration programme for newcomers in Brussels

Have you just arrived in Brussels? Is everything new to you? Do you want to find your way around quickly and easily? The Bapas' free integration programme is just the thing for you!

WHEN AND HOW?

You attend an integration programme when it is convenient for you within the deadline for programme completion. You can choose the timetable that is most convenient for you, during the day or evening, depending on the course times available.

The programme helps you to better understand Belgian society so that you can more easily become a part of it.

The principal difficulties faced by people when they arrive in a foreign country are: firstly the country's language, secondly knowledge of the country itself, thirdly housing and fourthly knowledge of the public institutions. With the integration programme you acquire a lot of information that enables you to integrate into society thanks to knowledge of the French language, of the host country’s institutions and of the traditions and lifestyles that are usual in that society.
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WHAT?

When you register at one of the reception offices, you will be greeted in a language that you understand or an interpreter will be present. They will explain what is included in the programme. If you want to register, you will sign an agreement and receive a certificate of registration.

The integration programme is free and will include the following at a minimum:

Welcome package

The welcome package includes:

a social assessment to assess your skills and needs for social and integration support to help you participate fully in local life in Belgium;
a language assessment to assess your knowledge of French or Dutch and to direct you, if needed, to a language course at the appropriate level designed to increase your opportunities in society, such as for finding a job and understanding the necessary procedures;
10 hours of information on your rights and obligations in Belgium - as stated in the Constitution, and information on a number of areas useful for settling into your new life: housing, healthcare, employment and training, schooling, mobility, etc.

A French- or Dutch-language course

A French- or Dutch- language module (up to A2 of the CEFR (European standard)) according to your profile, language level and current regulations.

Citizenship training

Citizenship training (min. 50 hours) to familiarise you with life in Brussels and Belgium: this takes a closer look at areas first addressed in the information module on rights and obligations, as well as providing information on history and geography, Belgium’s political and institutional organisation, the employment market and social relations in Belgium. This operates as a place for dialogue, with external visits to meet the various cultures that make up Brussels society.

Support

Throughout the programme, you will be offered individual support and socio-professional orientation suited to your needs. A social assistant will assist you in completing administrative formalities and seeking solutions, in particular in:

finding suitable training or employment,
enrolling your children at a school,
recognition of your diplomas,
finding leisure activities,
any questions regarding your residence status and obtaining Belgian nationality, etc.

At the end of the programme, you will receive a certificate of programme completion. This certificate must be presented to the municipality for people who are required to follow the programme, and it may also be useful for you when renewing your residency or applying for Belgian citizenship.

Extra

Our various reception offices also offer activities to meet your needs and wishes, such as psycho-social support, workshops and training. Visit their websites or contact BAPA for further information.

WHERE?

There are three reception offices for newcomers that run French- or Dutch-language integration programmes: