Visits by authorities
Coming to Belgium? Meet the diaspora
Mayors, members of parliament, government members, heads of institutions: if your stay in Belgium gives you the opportunity to meet our compatriots, tell the consulate in advance. We review your request and organise the meeting with you, across all political affiliations.
- Across all political affiliations
- One request in advance, one contact person
- A meeting prepared with the community
A neutral consulate
The same welcome for every authority of the Republic.
A consulate that serves everyone
The consulate represents Benin to all its nationals. It takes no sides: it builds the link between compatriots and their authorities, whoever they are.
Across all political affiliations
Every request is reviewed in the same way, whatever the political leaning of the authority, in the order it arrives.
The same rules for all
Same recommended notice, same form, same criteria: the consulate's schedule, the time available and the means to organise the meeting.
A time for dialogue
The meeting is there to inform, listen and talk with compatriots. The consulate provides the framework, with respect for everyone.
The diaspora at the centre
Compatriots are told in good time so they can come and listen to their authorities, ask questions and raise their concerns.
Who can make a request?
Any authority of the Republic travelling to Belgium, or their office:
- Member of the government
- Member of the National Assembly
- Senator
- President or member of the leadership of an institution
- Mayor or local councillor
- Prefect or territorial administration
- Head of a public administration, agency or state company
How it works
The earlier the request arrives, the better the chances that the meeting takes place and draws people.
- 1
You announce your visit
Ideally at least one month before you arrive, with your dates, cities and wishes.
- 2
The consulate reviews the request
Depending on its schedule, the notice and the means available. It replies in writing, with a named contact person.
- 3
We prepare it together
Date, venue, format, invited audience and programme are agreed with your office.
- 4
The community is informed
The consulate announces the meeting to compatriots and associations, then welcomes you on the day.
Announce a visit
The form can be filled in by the authority or by their office. No account needed.
Frequently asked questions
Does the consulate welcome authorities of all political leanings?
Yes. The consulate serves all Beninese people and remains neutral. Any authority of the Republic can make a request; each one is reviewed against the same criteria: the notice, the consulate's schedule and the means available.
How far in advance should we let you know?
At least one month before arriving in Belgium, ideally more. This leaves time to find a venue, inform compatriots and associations, and draw people. A later request is still possible, with no guarantee.
Is the meeting guaranteed?
No. The request opens the discussion with the consulate. Depending on its schedule, the notice and the venues available, the consulate may suggest another date or format, or be unable to follow up. You receive its answer in writing.
Who can fill in the form?
The authority themselves or someone from their office, protocol or administration. Simply indicate who the consulate should contact.
Can the meeting take place outside Liège?
Yes. The Liège consulate welcomes compatriots from Wallonia, Brussels and Flanders, as well as neighbouring countries. The venue is chosen with you, depending on your stay and the expected audience.
How are compatriots informed?
Once the meeting is confirmed, the consulate announces it on its website and shares it with associations and registered compatriots who agreed to receive its information.