Who Needs a Work Permit in Belgium
In Belgium, employees from outside the European Union (EU), European Economic Area (EEA), or Switzerland typically require a work permit. However, EU/EEA/Swiss nationals do not need a work permit to work in Belgium. Employers must assess whether their non-EU workers require a work permit, depending on the job position, the worker's qualifications, and the duration of their stay. The general rule is that foreign nationals coming to Belgium for employment need a work permit, but specific exceptions exist for certain categories such as highly skilled workers and intra-company transferees.
Types of Work Visas in Belgium
Belgium offers various work visas tailored to different types of employment. These visas are categorized based on the worker’s skill level, the nature of the job, and the duration of the stay. Employers need to determine which type of visa suits their foreign employee’s specific situation.
| Visa Type | Description |
| Work Visa (Type D) | This visa is for non-EU workers who intend to stay in Belgium for longer than 90 days to engage in full-time employment. |
| Highly Skilled Worker Visa | This visa is designed for individuals with specialized skills in fields such as IT, healthcare, or engineering, and who have a high level of education or professional experience. |
| Intra-Company Transfer Visa | For employees who are transferred from a foreign office to a Belgian office of the same company, typically for managerial, specialist, or trainee roles. |
| Seasonal Worker Visa | For non-EU nationals coming to Belgium for seasonal employment in industries such as agriculture or hospitality. |
Common Hiring Scenarios for Belgium
When hiring talent in Belgium, employers typically choose one of three pathways depending on the role, duration, & legal requirements. Below are the most common models.
Use Case 1: Sponsoring a Foreign Employee via Work Permit or Visa
This is the most common route for companies hiring full-time foreign talent in Belgium. To sponsor this visa, an employer (or Playroll as the Employer of Record) must have a registered legal entity in-country and issue a compliant offer of employment.
Key Employer Considerations:
- Sponsorship is required — contractors or freelancers cannot apply under this visa.
- Employees must remain in the approved work location unless authorized to relocate or change employers.
- Processing timelines vary (approximately 60 to 120 days), depending on the consulate or embassy.
This is best for: Long-term roles with in-office or hybrid presence in Belgium.
Use Case 2: Hiring a Foreign Contractor in Belgium
Independent professionals in Belgium can legally work with international clients without employer sponsorship, but must comply with local tax registration and reporting laws.
With Playroll’s Contractor Management solution, you can:
- Draft fully compliant local contractor agreements.
- Automate contractor invoicing and cross-border payments, in Euro (EUR) or USD.
- Mitigate risk of permanent establishment and contractor misclassification.
This is best for: Freelancers, consultants or project-based roles, especially if the worker already lives in Belgium.
Use Case 3: Relocating an Existing Employee to Belgium
Transferring an existing team member to Belgium? You’ll still need to navigate the same visa and payroll setup process. Even if the employee works for you elsewhere, a local employer of record is required to stay compliant.
EOR’s, like Playroll, handle all local steps, including:
- Work permit sponsorship and immigration paperwork,
- Registration with local authorities and payroll systems,
- Enrollment in mandatory benefits and statutory schemes.
This is best for: Internal transfers or remote-first companies looking to expand into Europe, or talent retention offerings for global mobility programs.
Requirements For a Work Permit in Belgium
To obtain a work permit in Belgium, applicants and employers must fulfill several key requirements. These may include proof of the employee’s qualifications, the job offer, and the employer’s status, as well as compliance with specific labor market conditions that prioritize local or EU workers before hiring non-EU employees.
- Valid Job Offer: The applicant must have a signed job offer from a Belgian employer.
- Qualifications: The worker must meet the qualifications for the job, such as education or work experience.
- Labor Market Test (if applicable): The employer may need to prove that no suitable Belgian or EU/EEA candidates were available for the position.
- Proof of Employment: The employer must show that the employment contract meets Belgian standards for working conditions, salary, and hours.
Belgium Work Permit Application Process
The process for obtaining a work permit in Belgium is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. Employers must initiate the application and ensure that all required documents are submitted to the appropriate authorities.
- Step 1: Obtain a work permit authorization from the Belgian Regional Employment Office. This process involves proving that the foreign worker’s skills meet the job’s requirements.
- Step 2: Submit the necessary documents, including the work contract, proof of qualifications, and labor market test results if applicable.
- Step 3: After approval from the regional authorities, the worker can apply for a work visa at the Belgian embassy or consulate in their home country.
- Step 4: Upon arrival in Belgium, the worker must register with the local commune and apply for a residence permit if required.
Process for Visa Sponsorship In Belgium
Visa sponsorship in Belgium is the responsibility of the employer. The employer must file the initial application for a work permit or visa with the regional government and show that they are offering a valid, full-time position. The employer also ensures that the worker meets all the necessary requirements to legally work in Belgium. It is important to note that visa sponsorship is typically required for non-EU employees.
What Are the Fees for a Work Permit or Visa in Belgium
Work permit and visa application fees in Belgium vary depending on the type of visa and work permit being applied for. Employers should anticipate paying fees at different stages of the process, from submission to approval.
| Visa Type | Application Fee |
| Work Visa (Type D) | €200 |
| Highly Skilled Worker Visa | €350 |
| Intra-Company Transfer Visa | €300 |
| Seasonal Worker Visa | €150 |
Processing Time for a Work Permit Or Visa in Belgium
The processing time for work permits and visas in Belgium typically ranges from several weeks to a few months, depending on the type of work visa and the specific circumstances of the application. It is important for employers to plan ahead, as delays in processing can affect the start date of the employee’s work contract.
Work Permit Renewal Periods in Belgium
Work permits in Belgium are typically valid for one year, after which they can be renewed. For workers on temporary or seasonal visas, the renewal process may be quicker. For employees with long-term employment, employers should ensure that the worker's permit is renewed before the expiration date to avoid any legal complications.
Visa Requirements For Digital Nomads in Belgium
Belgium does not currently have a specific digital nomad visa program. However, individuals wishing to work remotely for a foreign company while residing in Belgium may do so on a short-stay visa or a long-term work visa if they meet the requirements for self-employment or remote work status.
- Requirement 1: Proof of sufficient income or financial stability to support oneself during the stay.
- Requirement 2: Evidence of a contract with a foreign employer or proof of self-employment.
- Requirement 3: Health insurance valid in Belgium during the stay.
Common Challenges and Tips for Employers Hiring in Belgium
Hiring international talent in Belgium can be rewarding, but employers often face several challenges. The complex bureaucracy and regulations can be time-consuming and overwhelming. Employers should be prepared to navigate these complexities and stay updated on immigration policies.
- Challenge 1: Bureaucratic Delays - Belgium’s work permit and visa processing times can be lengthy, making it challenging for employers to secure timely workers.
- Challenge 2: Labor Market Test - Employers must often prove that no suitable Belgian or EU candidates are available for the position.
- Challenge 3: Language Barriers - While English is widely spoken in Belgium, certain job roles may require proficiency in Dutch, French, or German, depending on the region.
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