Work Belgium

Types of work permits

   - Work Permit Type A: Issued to foreigners who have lived and worked in Belgium for at least four years; grants the right to work for any employer in Belgium without time restrictions.

   - Work Permit Type B: The most common type of permit, issued for a period of up to one year and tied to a specific employer. The employer must prove that there is no suitable candidate from among EU citizens for the position.

   - Work Permit Type C: Issued to temporary workers, such as students or seasonal workers, as well as people with refugee status; valid for a limited period.

 

Required documents for obtaining a work permit

   - Passport or identity card: The primary document verifying your identity.

   - Employment contract: A copy of the signed contract with the employer in Belgium. The employer must also provide evidence that a suitable candidate from the EU could not be found for the vacancy.

   - Work permit application: The employer usually submits the application on your behalf, including a description of the position, salary amount, and working conditions.

   - Criminal record certificate: In some cases, you may need to provide a criminal record certificate from your country of origin or any country where you have lived for more than six months.

   - Medical certificate: A document confirming your health and the absence of diseases that may pose a threat to public health.

 

The process of obtaining a work permit

   - Application submission: The application for a work permit is usually submitted by the employer to the regional employment department. The review process can take from several weeks to several months.

   - Obtaining a visa D: After approval of the work permit, you will need to obtain a long-term visa (visa D) for entry and residence in Belgium. This visa allows you to work in the country based on the obtained permit.

 

Special conditions for EU citizens and other countries

   - Citizens of the EU/EEA and Switzerland: Citizens of the EU, EEA countries, and Switzerland do not need a work permit to work in Belgium. They can freely move and work in the country.

   - Citizens of non-EU countries: For citizens of non-EU countries, the process of obtaining a work permit is mandatory and requires meeting a number of conditions, including the possession of an offered employment contract and fulfillment of all document requirements.

 

It is recommended to consult in advance with your employer or a specialized lawyer to ensure the correct preparation of all documents.

Employment of European Union citizens

   - Freedom of movement and work: Citizens of the EU, as well as countries of the European Economic Area and Switzerland, have the right to freely move, reside, and work in Belgium without the need to obtain a special work permit. This means that citizens of these countries can easily seek and take up work in Belgium just like local residents.

   - Document processing: Although a work permit is not required, EU citizens must register with the local commune at their residence and obtain a residence permit if they plan to stay in Belgium for more than three months.

   - Social security: EU citizens are entitled to the same social benefits as Belgian citizens, including access to healthcare, social insurance, and other public services.

 

Employment of non-European Union citizens

   - Obtaining a work permit: Citizens of non-EU countries are required to obtain a work permit for legal employment in Belgium. The work permit is usually tied to a specific employer and is issued for a certain period (most often for one year with the possibility of extension).

   - Visa regime features: Citizens of non-EU countries must also obtain a long-term visa (visa D) for entry and residence in Belgium.

Finding a job in Belgium may seem like a complex process, especially for foreigners, however, the country offers many opportunities for those who are willing to make an effort.

 

Preparing a Resume and Cover Letter

   - Before starting your job search, ensure that you have a quality resume and cover letter tailored to the requirements of the Belgian job market. 

   

Using Online Platforms

   - Online Resources: There are numerous websites where job vacancies are posted, such as Indeed.be, StepStone.be, Jobat.be, and VDAB.be (in Flanders). These resources allow you to search for jobs based on various criteria such as industry, region, and skill level.

   - LinkedIn: LinkedIn is a popular platform for professional networking and job searching in Belgium. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is updated and contains all the necessary information about your experience and skills. You can also use LinkedIn to search for vacancies and connect with potential employers.

 

Contacting Recruitment Agencies

   - Many recruitment agencies operate in Belgium to assist with job searches. Large agencies like Randstad, Adecco, and Manpower offer staffing services and can help you find temporary or permanent employment. Specialized agencies can assist in finding jobs in specific industries such as IT, medicine, or engineering.

 

Attending Job Fairs and Networking Events

   - Job Fairs: Job fairs are regularly held in Belgium, where companies offer vacancies and conduct interviews with potential candidates. 

   - Networking Events: Participating in professional networking events and seminars can also be beneficial for making connections and obtaining job search recommendations.

 

Using Government Resources

   - VDAB (Flanders), Le Forem (Wallonia), and Actiris (Brussels) are regional employment services that offer support in job searching, including assistance with writing resumes, skill enhancement courses, and access to job vacancy databases. Registering with these services can significantly simplify the job search process.

 

Job searching in Belgium requires time and effort, but with the right approach and by utilizing available resources, you can find a suitable job.

Language Skills

   - Official Languages: Belgium has three official languages: Dutch, French, and German. Depending on the region, knowledge of one of these languages may be mandatory. In Flanders, Dutch is most commonly required, in Wallonia — French, and in some areas close to Germany — German.

   - English Language: In many international companies, especially in Brussels, knowledge of the English language may be sufficient. However, knowing the local language is still a significant advantage and often required for interacting with local colleagues and clients.

 

Qualification and Education

   - Diploma Equivalence: In Belgium, recognition of foreign diplomas and qualifications may require additional steps, such as diploma equivalency. This is especially important for professions requiring licensing, such as in healthcare, law, or education.

   - Specific Requirements: Some professions may have specific requirements, such as a certain level of education (bachelor’s, master’s) or professional certificates. For example, IT specialists may need certificates confirming proficiency with specific technologies or programs.

 

Work Experience

   - Relevant Experience: Employers often expect candidates to have relevant work experience in their field. This experience should be backed by references and may include professional experience, internships, or volunteer programs.

   - International Experience: Having work experience in an international environment or abroad can be a significant plus, especially for companies operating in international markets.

 

Soft Skills

   - Communication: The ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, is an important requirement for many employers. This includes the ability to work in a multilingual and multicultural environment.

   - Flexibility and Adaptability: The ability to quickly adapt to new environments and working conditions is also highly valued, especially in a dynamic labor market. 

 

Legal Requirements

   - Work Permit: For citizens of countries outside the EU, a valid work permit is required. EU citizens and those from countries in the EEA are exempt from this requirement, but must register with local authorities if they plan to stay in the country for more than three months.

   - Visa and Residence Permit: Employment may also require a visa and a residence permit, which must be obtained before starting work.

 

These requirements may vary depending on the profession and region, so it is important to research the specific conditions for your sector in advance and prepare the necessary documents and certificates.

In Belgium, there are several industries and sectors that are considered most in demand and are actively developing. These sectors offer significant employment opportunities for both locals and foreigners.

 

Information Technology (IT) and Digital Technologies

   - Popularity and Growth: The IT and digital technology sector in Belgium is rapidly developing and experiencing high demand for specialists, such as software developers, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, and artificial intelligence experts.

   - Innovation Centers: Brussels and Antwerp are key centers of technological innovation, housing numerous startups and international IT companies.

 

Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals

   - Medical Research: Belgium is a leader in Europe in biotechnology and pharmaceuticals. The country is known for its high standards in clinical research and drug manufacturing.

   - Medical Innovations: There is a high demand for specialists in research and development, as well as scientific staff in the field of biomedicine.

 

Financial Services

   - International Financial Centers: Brussels, being the headquarters for many international organizations, including the European Union and NATO, also serves as an important financial center. Banking and insurance services, as well as asset and investment management, are in demand in the country.

   - Financial Technologies: Fintech startups, which create solutions in mobile payments, cryptocurrencies, and other innovative financial technologies, are actively developing in Belgium.

 

Logistics and Transportation

   - Trade Hubs: Belgium, due to its geographical location, is an important logistics center in Europe. The ports in Antwerp and Zeebrugge play key roles in international trade and supply chain management.

   - Transportation Services: The transport and logistics sector offers numerous jobs, ranging from warehouse and transport network management to the development and implementation of logistics solutions.

 

Healthcare and Social Services

   - Demand for Specialists: With the aging population and improved standard of living, the healthcare and social services sector continually needs qualified personnel, such as doctors, nurses, social workers, and specialists in elderly care.

   - Public Health: Particular attention is also given to preventive healthcare and innovations in medical technologies.

 

Engineering and Construction

   - Infrastructure Projects: Infrastructure projects, including the construction of roads, bridges, residential and commercial buildings, are actively developing in Belgium. There is a high demand for engineers, architects, and skilled workers in this industry.

   - Energy and Sustainable Development: Sustainable development and energy efficiency are becoming increasingly important areas in the construction industry, creating demand for specialists in these fields.

 

These sectors provide significant opportunities for employment and professional development in Belgium. They also play an important role in the country's economy and ensure its sustainable growth.

 

There is also a steady demand for low-skilled workers in several key sectors in Belgium. These professions typically require physical labor or service provision and do not require special education or high qualifications. 

 

Agriculture and Seasonal Work

   - Seasonal Work: In agriculture, there is a constant demand for workers to harvest crops, work on farms, and in greenhouses. These jobs are usually seasonal in nature, and the qualification requirements are minimal.

   - Animal Husbandry: Work in livestock farms also requires low-skilled labor, including animal care, feeding, and cleaning.

 

Construction

   - Construction Workers: The construction industry requires workers on construction sites, such as apprentices, laborers, concrete workers, and roofers. These positions involve physical labor and may require some experience but typically do not require formal education.

   - Cleanup on Construction Sites: Another in-demand job includes cleaning up construction sites, which does not require high qualifications.

 

Logistics and Warehouses

   - Loaders and Warehouse Workers: In logistics and warehouses, there is a constant demand for workers to sort, pack, and transport goods. Work in warehouses and distribution centers involves moving goods, loading and unloading, which requires minimal qualifications.

   - Forklift Drivers: Low-skilled workers are also required to operate forklifts, although this may require short-term training and certification.

 

Cleaning and Janitorial Services

   - Cleaners and Janitors: In the cleaning industry, there is a high demand for workers to clean offices, homes, hotels, and other commercial premises. These jobs usually do not require special skills and can be done on a flexible schedule.

 

Food Service

   - Kitchen Workers: Restaurants and cafes require kitchen assistants, including dishwashers, cook's helpers, and cleaners. These positions usually do not require special education.

   - Service Staff: The food service industry also demands waiters, bartenders, and cashiers, especially in large cities and tourist areas.

 

Care for the Elderly

   - Elderly Care: Due to an aging population, there is increased demand for workers in nursing homes and elderly care centers. These positions often do not require formal education but may require short-term training.

 

Sorting and Waste Processing

   - Waste Processing Workers: In the field of ecology and waste processing, there is demand for workers to sort and process materials at recycling plants.

 

These positions provide employment opportunities for those without high qualifications and are an important part of Belgium's economy. Demand for such professions often remains stable, especially during periods of high economic activity and seasonal peaks.

The pension system in Belgium is quite complex and multi-tiered, offering different types of pension provision depending on the worker's status, work history, and other factors.

 

Three-Tier Pension System

   Belgium operates a three-tier pension system:

   - First Tier: State pension is provided to all working individuals, including employees, self-employed, and civil servants. The pension amount is calculated based on work experience and average earnings over the work period.

   - Second Tier: Corporate or professional pensions are additional pension schemes offered by employers. Employers contribute certain amounts to employees' accounts under these schemes, providing additional post-retirement income.

   - Third Tier: Personal pension savings involve voluntary contributions to personal pension accounts, which offer tax benefits and help increase the pension.

 

Retirement Age

   - Official Retirement Age: In Belgium, the official retirement age is 65, but it is gradually increasing to 67 by 2030. However, there is an opportunity for early retirement with sufficient work history.

   - Minimum Work History: For a full state pension, a minimum of 45 years of work history is required. For each year of insufficient work history, the pension is reduced.

 

Pension Amount

   - Pension Calculation: The amount of the state pension is calculated based on a formula that considers the average annual income over the work period and the number of years of work history. The higher the income and longer the work history, the higher the pension. There are also minimum and maximum pension amounts.

   - Minimum pension: If a person has worked a full career but had a low income, they are guaranteed a minimum pension set by the state.

 

Pension benefits and taxes

   - Tax benefits: Contributions to private pension accounts (third pillar) are subject to tax benefits. Employees can deduct contributions to these accounts from their taxable income, reducing the overall tax amount.

   - Pension taxation: Pension payments are taxed under personal income tax, but there are tax deductions available that reduce the tax burden on retirees.

 

Features for foreigners

   - Equivalence of pension rights: According to European legislation, pension rights acquired in one of the EU countries are preserved and can be combined when calculating pensions. This means that work experience in other EU countries is considered when calculating a Belgian pension.

   - Expatriates and international workers: Foreign citizens working in Belgium are entitled to a state pension if they meet the minimum requirements for work experience, just like Belgian citizens.

 

Thus, the Belgian pension system offers a wide range of options for saving and receiving a pension, considering both state and private pension provisions. Foreigners working in Belgium also have access to these opportunities, provided certain conditions are met.

Belgium has a comprehensive social insurance system that covers various aspects of life and work for citizens and residents of the country.

 

Pension insurance

   - State pension: All working citizens and residents of Belgium are required to participate in the state pension insurance system. This system ensures the receipt of a pension upon reaching retirement age.

   - Corporate and private pension plans: In addition to the state pension, workers can participate in additional pension schemes organized by employers or open their own pension accounts, which provide additional payments upon retirement.

 

Medical insurance

   - Mandatory medical insurance: All residents of Belgium are required to have medical insurance. It covers basic medical services, including doctor visits, hospitalization, purchase of medicines, and other medical expenses. Insurance is provided through recognized health insurance funds that operate on a non-profit basis.

   - Supplemental medical insurance: In addition to mandatory insurance, many residents purchase supplemental medical insurance that covers services not included in the basic insurance, such as dentistry, physiotherapy, and improved hospitalization conditions.

 

Unemployment insurance

   - Unemployment benefits: Workers who have lost their jobs are entitled to unemployment benefits if they meet certain conditions, including a minimum period of work. Benefits are paid through state employment services and depend on previous earnings and work experience.

   - Active employment support: In addition to financial support, state employment services also offer retraining programs and support in finding new employment.

 

Temporary disability insurance

   - Sickness benefit: In case of illness that temporarily prevents work, employees are entitled to sickness benefits. During the first few days of illness, the employer pays the benefit, and afterward, it is paid by the insurance company. This insurance covers income loss during the period of illness.

   - Workplace injury insurance: Workers are also insured against occupational injuries and accidents at the workplace, providing compensation for medical expenses and lost earnings.

 

Disability insurance

   - Disability benefit: Individuals who cannot continue working due to illness or injury and are recognized as having a disability are entitled to receive a disability benefit. The benefit amount depends on the degree of lost work capacity and previous income.

   - Social support: In addition to benefits, people with disabilities are provided access to various social services and benefits, including housing adaptation and special equipment.

 

Family Benefits

   - Child Allowance: In Belgium, family benefits include monthly payments for children. The amount depends on the number of children, their age, and other factors. These allowances are paid until the children reach a certain age or complete their education.

   - Maternity and Paternity Leave: Workers are also entitled to paid maternity leave and parental leave, allowing parents to balance work and childcare.

 

Popular insurance companies offering a wide range of insurance services, including health, life, property, and car insurance: AG Insurance, AXA Belgium, Ethias, DKV Belgium, Allianz Belgium.

Dismissal Rules

   - Notice of Dismissal: In Belgium, the employer is required to notify the employee of dismissal within a certain period before their actual departure. The notice period depends on the employee's length of service in the company and can range from a few weeks to several months. Employees who have worked for less than three months receive a one-week notice, while those who have worked for more than two years receive 12 weeks or more.

   - Severance Pay: In the case of immediate dismissal (without the notice period), the employer must pay compensation equivalent to the salary for the period the employee would have worked. This rule also applies to the termination of an employment contract by the employee's initiative.

   - Reasons for Dismissal: It is important that the dismissal is justified. In the case of unlawful dismissal, the employee has the right to go to court and seek compensation.

 

Leave

   - Annual Leave: In Belgium, all employees are entitled to paid annual leave. The number of days depends on the number of days worked in the previous year. Generally, this is 20 days for a five-day workweek (provided the employee worked the entire previous year). Vacation pay is paid in advance and includes the basic salary plus an additional 92% of the monthly salary.

   - Parental Leave: Parents are entitled to parental leave, which can be full-time, part-time, or in the form of reduced working hours. The leave lasts up to four months per child and can be used until the child reaches 12 years of age. The employer is required to grant this leave, and the government provides an allowance during this period.

   - Additional Types of Leave: Belgium also offers other types of leave, such as leave to care for a sick relative, educational leave, and leave for family circumstances.

 

Public Holidays

   - Official Holidays: Belgium has 10 official public holidays a year, which are non-working days. These include days such as New Year's Day (January 1), Labor Day (May 1), Bastille Day (July 21), and Christmas Day (December 25).

   - Compensation for Working on Holidays: If an employee has to work on a holiday, they are entitled to compensation in the form of an additional day off or increased pay. Employers must comply with these rules, or they face fines and penalties.

Main Professional Unions in Belgium

   - General Federation of Belgian Labour: One of the largest and most influential trade unions in Belgium, representing workers' interests across various industries. It actively participates in collective bargaining with employers and the government and offers its members legal assistance, insurance, and advice on labor law issues.

   - Confederation of Christian Trade Unions: A Christian trade union, also one of the largest in the country. It defends the rights of workers, representing their interests in negotiations with employers and government; it offers its members a wide range of services, including legal support, protection against dismissal, and assistance with social security issues.

   - General Confederation of Liberal Trade Unions of Belgium: A liberal trade union that also plays a key role in protecting workers' rights and improving working conditions; it offers its members support in labor disputes, assistance with employment and social security issues, and legal advice.

 

How can trade unions help?

   - Legal support: Trade unions provide their members with legal consultations and representation in the event of labor disputes, dismissals, or violations of labor rights. They can help prepare a complaint or even represent the employee's interests in court.

   - Collective bargaining: Trade unions participate in negotiations with employers on issues such as wages, working conditions, working hours, and other important aspects. They strive to conclude collective labor agreements that set standards for all industry workers.

   - Social security and aid: Trade unions may offer their members access to additional social benefits such as unemployment insurance, pension schemes, and vocational training programs.

   - Information and training: Trade unions also inform workers about their rights and responsibilities, organize seminars and training aimed at enhancing employees' qualifications and knowledge.

 

Union membership

   - Voluntary participation: Membership in trade unions in Belgium is voluntary. Workers can choose whether to join a union and participate in its activities. Membership is typically associated with paying dues, which are used to fund the union's activities and provide services to its members.

   - Collective protection: Union membership gives workers the opportunity to receive collective protection and support, which is especially important in the event of labor conflicts or changes in labor legislation.

Running a business in Belgium has its own characteristics, which are important to consider when starting a company. These features include legal requirements, taxation, administrative procedures, and access to financing. 

Legal forms of business

   - Sole proprietorship: This is the simplest form of running a business, where the entrepreneur bears personal responsibility for all company obligations. Registering a sole proprietorship requires minimal costs and is popular among small businesses and freelancers.

   - Limited liability company: This is one of the most popular forms for small and medium-sized businesses. The company is registered as a separate legal entity, and the owners' liability is limited to the amount of their capital contribution.

   - Joint-stock company: This form is suitable for large companies as it allows raising significant capital through the issuance of shares. Shareholders bear liability within the limits of their investments.

Business registration

   All enterprises in Belgium must be registered with the Central Enterprise Bank. Registration includes obtaining a company number and opening a bank account in the company's name.

 Taxation

   - Corporate tax: In Belgium, the corporate tax is 25% of the company's profit. Preferential tax rates may apply to small and medium-sized enterprises.

   - Value-added tax: The standard VAT rate in Belgium is 21%. However, reduced rates (6% or 12%) may apply to certain goods and services. Companies are required to register as VAT payers and submit regular declarations.

   - Taxes on dividends and capital gains: Dividends paid to shareholders are taxed at 30%, but double taxation agreements can reduce the tax rate for foreign investors.

Social security and insurance

   - Social contributions: All entrepreneurs are required to pay social contributions, including pension contributions, health insurance, and other mandatory payments. The amount of contributions depends on the company's income.

   - Liability insurance: Depending on the type of activity, mandatory liability insurance may be required to protect the company in the event of third-party claims.

Access to financing and subsidies

   - Bank financing: Belgian banks offer various credit products for businesses, including startup loans, investment loans, and working capital. Obtaining a loan requires preparing a business plan and financial forecasts.

   - Government subsidies and grants: In Belgium, there are numerous business support programs, including subsidies for innovation, research, and development, as well as preferential loans for small and medium-sized enterprises. Some regions offer additional grants for the development of local businesses.

It is important to study all the requirements and regulations in advance to ensure a successful start and further development of your business in the country.