Philippe De Smet

Senior Immigration Lawyer

Email philippe.desmet@bruxlawassociates.org

Phone +32 2 987 6543

Biography

Philippe De Smet is a highly regarded immigration lawyer based in Brussels, specializing in all aspects of Belgian and EU immigration law. With over 20 years of experience, Philippe has successfully assisted a diverse clientele, including multinational corporations, high-skilled workers, expatriates, and refugees, in navigating the complexities of immigration processes. His in-depth knowledge of immigration policies and his commitment to providing personalized legal solutions have made him a trusted advisor for those seeking to establish their lives or businesses in Belgium.

EXPERTISE

Corporate Immigration: Philippe advises companies on obtaining work permits, visas, and residence permits for foreign employees, ensuring compliance with Belgian labor and immigration laws.

Family Reunification: He assists clients with the legal processes involved in bringing family members to Belgium, including spousal and child visas, and handles complex cases involving multi-jurisdictional family reunifications.

Asylum & Refugee Law: Philippe is dedicated to representing individuals seeking asylum in Belgium, providing compassionate and strategic counsel throughout the application and appeals processes.

Naturalization & Citizenship: He offers expert guidance on the requirements and procedures for acquiring Belgian citizenship, including issues related to dual nationality.

EU & Schengen Visas: Philippe has extensive experience in securing visas for travel and business within the EU and Schengen Area, helping clients navigate the often intricate application processes.

Immigration Appeals: He represents clients in immigration appeals and litigation, challenging decisions on visas, deportations, and other immigration matters.

Approach

Philippe De Smet is known for his client-centered approach, focusing on providing tailored legal solutions that meet the unique needs of each client. He understands the personal and emotional aspects of immigration cases and offers compassionate, clear, and practical advice. Philippe’s thorough understanding of both Belgian and EU immigration laws allows him to craft strategies that maximize the likelihood of successful outcomes. His attention to detail and dedication to his clients’ well-being make him a highly sought-after immigration lawyer.

Education & Bar Admission

J.D., Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB)
Master’s in European Law, College of Europe, Bruges

LANGUAGES

  • Dutch
  • French
  • English

Affiliations

Member, Brussels Bar Association Member, Belgian Association of Immigration Lawyers (BAIL) Member, European Immigration Lawyers Network (EILN) Advisor, International Organization for Migration (IOM)

NOTABLE CASES

Philippe has successfully handled a wide range of immigration cases, including securing visas for high-profile expatriates, reuniting families across borders, and obtaining asylum for individuals facing persecution in their home countries. His work has had a significant impact on the lives of his clients, many of whom continue to rely on his expertise for ongoing immigration support.

Client Testimonials

"Philippe De Smet is not just a lawyer; he’s a guide through the complex world of immigration. His expertise and compassion made all the difference in our case."

"Thanks to Philippe, we were able to bring our family together in Belgium. His knowledge of immigration law is unparalleled."