Work Permit in Belgium

Belgium, a country with a developed economy and a high standard of living, attracts many foreign professionals. Understanding the work permit process is important for anyone considering employment in this country. In this article, we will discuss the key aspects of the work permit process in Belgium.

Main types of work permits in Belgium

Belgium offers several types of work permits, each of which is designed for different categories of foreigners:

1. Type A work permit – granted to foreigners wishing to work in Belgium for an indefinite period of time. To obtain this type of permit, it is necessary to prove that the applicant has worked in Belgium on a type B permit for four years in the last ten years.
2. Type B work permit – is issued for a fixed period of time, usually one year, and is required for a specific position with a specific employer. This type of permit is most commonly issued and requires prior approval of the vacancy.
3. Type C work permit – granted to foreign nationals who have a limited right to stay in Belgium, such as students or refugees, allowing them to work for any employer.

Process for applying for a type B work permit

To obtain a type B permit, the process is usually initiated by the employer in Belgium. The employer must submit an application to the regional employment office, proving that he/she could not find a suitable candidate among EU citizens.

Documents required to apply for a B-type work permit:

• Completed questionnaire
• A valid passport and a copy of all its pages
• Copy of a diploma of higher education or professional qualification
• Employment contract or job offer from a Belgian employer
• Medical opinion confirming the absence of medical contraindications to work

Features of the process

Obtaining a work permit in Belgium can take from a few weeks to several months, depending on the specific region and the workload of the local immigration authorities. It is important to start the process early to avoid delays in employment planning. 

What is the Belgium work visa?

Belgium, as a country with a highly developed economy and a convenient geographical location in the heart of Europe, actively attracts qualified foreign specialists. In order to legally work in Belgium, foreigners need to obtain a work visa, which gives them access to the local labour market. In this article, we will look at the key aspects involved in obtaining a work visa to Belgium.

Types of work visas to Belgium

Belgium has different categories of work visas, each of which fulfils certain requirements and conditions. The main types include:

1. Visa for highly qualified specialists (Blue Card): Designed for nationals from countries outside the European Union who have higher education or significant professional experience in a particular field.
2. Visa for seasonal workers: This is issued for seasonal work, most often in agriculture.
3. Visa for internally transferred employees: For employees of multinational companies who are transferred to Belgian subsidiaries to fulfil specific tasks.

The process of obtaining a work visa

The process of obtaining a work visa starts with obtaining a work permit, which is mandatory for most categories of foreign workers. Here are the main steps:

1. Obtaining a work permit: An employer in Belgium must apply for a work permit at the regional employment office. This process involves proving that an appropriate candidate from other countries is needed to perform a job that cannot be assigned to a local resident or EU citizen.
2. Visa application: After obtaining a work permit, the candidate can apply for a work visa at the nearest Belgian consulate or embassy. The required documents usually include a passport, photographs, health insurance, documentation of accommodation in Belgium and the work permit itself.

Documents required

• A passport with an expiry date exceeding the period of stay.
• Two actual photos.
• Health insurance covering the entire period of stay.
• Documents confirming financial solvency.
• Certificate of no criminal record.

How to apply for the Belgium work visa in 2024?

Belgium remains an attractive country for international professionals due to its strategic position in Europe and the quality of its working environment. In order to legally work in Belgium, foreigners need to obtain a work visa. In this article, we will look at how to correctly apply for a work visa in Belgium in 2024, taking into account the latest changes in migration legislation.

Step 1: Preparing to serve

Before applying for a work visa, the candidate must receive a job offer from a Belgian employer. The employer usually takes over the process of obtaining a work permit from the Belgian regional authorities. This authorisation serves as the basis for the visa application.

Step 2: Gathering the necessary documents

Basic documents to apply for a work visa include:

• A valid passport.
• Documents proving the employment contract with the Belgian employer.
• Proof of residence in Belgium.
• Health insurance covering the entire period of intended stay.
• A certificate of no criminal record from the country of residence.

Step 3: Submitting an application

You should apply for a visa at the Belgian consulate or embassy in your country of residence. It is important to check the current visa requirements on the official website of the embassy, as new rules or changes may be introduced due to European Union policies.

Step 4: Waiting for a decision

The processing time for a work visa application can vary, but usually ranges from a few weeks to a few months. During this time, it is advisable to prepare for the move by researching the cultural and social aspects of life in Belgium.

Step 5: Arrival in Belgium

Once you have obtained your visa and arrived in Belgium, you will need to register in the local municipality where you plan to live. This will entitle you to a local identification card and access to social services.

How can I get an Belgium work visa and permit?

Belgium is one of the key economies in Europe, attracting foreign specialists of various profiles. To start working in Belgium, foreigners need to obtain a work visa and a work permit. This article describes the process of obtaining these documents.

Step 1: Determining the type of work permit

There are several types of work permits in Belgium, the choice of which depends on the applicant’s qualifications, the nature of the work and other factors:

• Type B permit – for foreigners who intend to work for a specific employer for a period of up to one year. Usually required for most professionals.
• European Blue Card – for highly qualified professionals from non-EU countries who plan to work in Belgium on a contract for more than one year.
• Type A permit – granted to foreigners who have worked legally in Belgium for a certain number of years.

Step 2: Obtaining a work permit

The process starts with the Belgian employer applying for a work permit on behalf of the foreign employee to the regional employment authority:

• The employer must provide: a detailed job description, information on the need for foreign labour, and salary data that must meet the minimum requirements for the position.
• The employee shall provide: copies of qualification documents, CV, and other documents confirming professional suitability.

Step 3: Applying for a D visa

After obtaining a work permit, the applicant must apply for a type D work visa at a Belgian consulate or embassy:

• Required documents include a passport, health insurance, proof of financial stability, work permit, and proof of accommodation in Belgium.
• The process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the consulate.

Step 4: Registration in Belgium

Upon arrival in Belgium, a foreigner must register with the municipality of residence in order to obtain a residence permit, which confirms his or her right to live and work in the country.

What documents do I need for Belgium work visa application?

In order to successfully apply for a work visa to Belgium, candidates need to carefully prepare and submit a complete set of documents. This article outlines the key documents required for a work visa application and provides a brief explanation of their purpose.

Main documents required

1. Foreign passport: Must be valid for at least 12 months after the expected visa expiry date. Copies of all relevant pages of the passport, including photo and personal data must be submitted.
2. Visa application: The application form must be filled in clearly and without corrections. The application form must be signed personally by the applicant.
3. Photographs: Two passport-size colour photos that meet the requirements for visa documents.
4. Proof of work permit: Original and copy of the work permit issued by the Belgian authorities.
5. Employment contract with a Belgian employer: The contract should contain information about the position, working conditions, salary and the duration of the contract.
6. Proof of accommodation in Belgium: A rental contract or a letter from the employer confirming the provision of accommodation for the period of work.
7. Health Insurance: A policy covering all medical expenses in Belgium for the entire duration of your stay.
8. Criminal record certificate: A document issued by the competent authorities of the country of permanent residence confirming the absence of a criminal record.
9. Proof of financial solvency: Bank statements or other documents proving that you have sufficient funds to live in Belgium for the duration of your visa.

Additional documents

Depending on the specifics of the visa requested and the requirements of the consulate, additional documents such as letters of recommendation from previous employers, certificates of professional qualifications and others may be required.

Where and when can you apply for an Belgium work visa?

For many foreign professionals, Belgium is an attractive career destination due to its economic potential and quality of life. Obtaining a work visa is the first step for those who plan to start working in this country. In this article, we will look at where and when you can apply for a work visa to Belgium and discuss the specifics of the application process.

Where to apply for a work visa in Belgium

1. Consular offices

The application for a work visa to Belgium is usually made through the Belgian consulate or embassy in the applicant’s country of residence. These may be:

• Belgian Embassy: The main diplomatic mission, which also processes visa applications.
• Consulates and visa application centres: Depending on the country, consulates and specialised visa application centres may also accept visa applications.

2. online platforms

In some cases, the initial stages of the application can be done online through the official Belgian government web portals, where applicants can fill in the necessary forms and find out the list of required documents.

When to apply for a work visa to Belgium

1. Processing time

It is advisable to plan your application for a work visa well in advance, taking into account the processing time, which can vary from a few weeks to several months. The best time to apply is at least three months before the expected start date.

2. Accounting for seasonal fluctuations

Seasonal fluctuations in the workload of consular services should be taken into account, especially during summer holidays and public holidays, when processing times may increase.

Application process

Applying for a work visa requires careful preparation and involves the following steps:

1. Document Collection: Includes employment contract, invitation from employer, proof of qualifications, health insurance and others.
2. Filling in the application form: The visa application form can be downloaded from the official website of the consulate or obtained directly from the visa application centre.
3. Application: Documents must be submitted in person or through an accredited agent at the consular section of the Belgian Embassy.
4. Waiting for a decision: After submission, there is a waiting period during which the submitted data is checked and a decision is made.

For how long is the Belgium work visa valid?

A work visa for Belgium is an important document for foreign professionals planning to work in Belgium. Understanding the duration of a work visa is key to planning your activities and complying with Belgium’s migration laws. In this article, we will look at how long a work visa is issued for and what factors can affect its duration.

Types of work visas and their deadlines

There are different types of work visas in Belgium, each with a different validity period:

1. The Single Permit is the most common type of visa that allows you to work and reside in Belgium. This visa is issued for a period of up to one year and can be extended depending on the duration of the employment contract with the employer.
2. The European Blue Card is intended for highly skilled workers and is issued for a period of up to two years. This card is also renewable if the labour contract continues and the conditions for qualification are maintained.

Factors affecting the validity of a visa

1. Duration of the contract: The duration of the work visa usually depends on the duration of the employment contract. The visa cannot be granted for a period longer than the duration of the contract with the employer.
2. Immigration judgement: All visa applications or extensions are dealt with by the Belgian Immigration Service, which may set time limits according to current legislation and the individual circumstances of the applicant.
3. Legislative changes: Immigration laws are subject to change, which may also affect the timing of issuance and renewal of work visas.

Visa extension process

In order to extend a work visa in Belgium, an application must be submitted several months before the expiry of the current visa. During the renewal process, the applicant will need to provide proof of continued employment, proof of income and possibly updated health insurance.

Are foreigners allowed to work in Belgium?

Belgium, a country with a highly developed economy and a favourable investment climate, actively attracts foreign talent. Let’s take a look at the rules and conditions for foreign citizens wishing to work in Belgium.

Legislative framework

The employment of foreigners in Belgium is regulated by both national and European legislation. The main emphasis is on the protection of the labour market for Belgian and European Union citizens. Nevertheless, there are exceptions for certain categories of foreign professionals.

Categories of foreign workers

1. EU/EEA and Swiss nationals: Can work in Belgium without a special work permit. Only registration in the local municipality and proof of residence is required.
2. Third-country nationals: To work in Belgium, a work permit (self-employed) or a professional card (self-employed) is required. A D visa is usually required for long-term stay and work.

Work permit

Foreign workers from non-EU countries must obtain one of the following authorisations:

• Type B work permit: This is issued for a fixed period of time (usually up to one year) and requires a job offer from a Belgian employer.
• European Blue Card: For highly qualified professionals, offers higher salaries and more opportunities for intra-EU mobility.

The process of applying for authorisation

The process starts with the submission of an application by the employer to the regional employment services of Belgium. It is necessary to provide documents confirming the qualifications of the employee, the conditions of employment and evidence that a similar specialist is not found on the local market.

Exceptions and special cases

Certain categories of workers, such as researchers, trainee students and journalists, may qualify for simplified work permit procedures or exemptions.

The types of work visas in Belgium

Belgium offers different types of work visas, each of which is adapted to certain categories of foreign workers. It is important to choose the right type of visa that suits your status and employment objectives. Below is a detailed description of the main types of work visas in Belgium.

1. Type B work permit (Single Permit)

This is the most common type of work visa which allows foreigners to work for one specific employer in Belgium. The work permit and the right of residence are combined in one document (Single Permit).

Features:

• Issued for a period of up to one year.
• May be extended provided the employment relationship with the same employer continues.

2. European Blue Card

The European Blue Card is intended for highly qualified foreign professionals wishing to work in Belgium. This type of visa entitles you to work and reside in any country of the European Union.

Features:

• Requires a college degree or high-level professional experience.
• Wages must be above a certain threshold, which is regularly reviewed.
• Valid for up to two years, renewable.

3. Visa for the self-employed

For foreign nationals wishing to work in Belgium as self-employed, a special authorisation must be obtained.

Features:

• It must be proven that sufficient funding is available and that the business plan is viable.
• The applicant’s contribution to the Belgian economy is assessed.

4. Visa for researchers

This type of visa is intended for academics and researchers who intend to conduct scientific research in Belgian educational institutions or research centres.

Features:

• A contract with a research institution is required.
• The duration of the visa corresponds to the duration of the research project.

Application procedure

Applying for any type of work visa to Belgium requires careful preparation of documents, including a work contract, proof of qualifications and professional experience, as well as health insurance and other supporting documents. The application is made through the Belgian embassy or consulate in the applicant’s country of residence.

Belgium work permit requirements

Belgium offers a variety of opportunities for foreign professionals seeking to work in a country with a developed economy and a high standard of living. To work legally in Belgium, foreign nationals need to obtain a work permit. In this article we will look at the main requirements for obtaining this permit.

Main types of work permits

1. Type B work permit (Single Permit): For foreign workers who plan to work for one specific employer. The permit is usually issued for a period of up to one year and can be renewed.
2. European Blue Card: For highly qualified professionals requiring higher education and earning a salary well above the national average.

Requirements for obtaining a type B work permit

1. Job offer from a Belgian employer: The employer must confirm that he/she has not been able to find a suitable candidate among Belgian or other EU citizens.
2. Documents confirming qualifications and experience: Diplomas, certificates and letters of recommendation confirming professional skills and work experience should be provided.
3. Health insurance: Coverage must be sufficient for the entire period of stay in Belgium.
4. Criminal record certificate: The document must be provided from the country of permanent residence and any other countries where the applicant has resided for more than one year in the last five years.
5. Proof of financial stability: You must prove that you have sufficient funds to support yourself in Belgium.

Submission procedure

The application for a work permit is submitted by the Belgian employer to the regional employment office. The process takes from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the complexity of the case and the workload of the authorities.

Features for European Blue Card holders

To obtain the European Blue Card, the candidate must provide proof of higher education and a job contract with a salary that is several times the Belgian minimum wage. The card is valid for up to two years, renewable if employment continues.

Conclusion

Obtaining a work permit in Belgium requires careful preparation and co-operation between the foreign worker and the employer. Understanding and complying with all requirements will ensure that all necessary documents are successfully completed and that you can legally work in Belgium.