Types of Belgium Work Visas – Eligibility, and Process

If you want to have a real European trip in 2025, forget about the Eiffel Tower and the Colosseum. The country of delicious chocolate, world-class beer, and art that will make you question reality is calling your name. But Belgium isn’t just a great place to eat frites and learn how to taste beer—it’s also a great place to build a life and a job.

It’s kind of like getting a promotion with pancakes on the side. Belgium has a work visa for everyone, whether you’re a top-notch IT expert, a skilled healthcare worker, or a young business owner with a game-changing idea.

This guide will show you everything you need to know about getting a work visa in Belgium. We’ll talk about the different kinds of work permits, the top 5 jobs that people want, and even your choices for bringing your family with you and maybe even becoming a Belgian citizen.

Here we go! Fasten your seat belt, grab a Speculoos cookie (we promise it will be worth it), and let’s start working in Belgium!

Work Permit Type A: The Holy Grail of Independence

The Work Permit Type A is like a passport that lets you work freely in Belgium. For many, it’s the end goal and the best reward: being able to work for any company without any limits!

Eligibility

1. Previous Employment:
   • You must have worked in Belgium for at least four years with a Type B work permit within the past decade.
2. Legal Standing:
   • The Work Permit Type A is like a passport that lets you work freely in Belgium. For many, it’s the end goal and the best reward: being able to work for any company without any limits!
3. Loyalty Recognition:
   • Most of the time, the Type A pass is seen as a reward for working hard in Belgium and as proof that you are a loyal employee.

People with this permit can work for any company in Belgium, they don’t need a specific job offer. This gives them more job options. If these things are true for you, you might want to apply for the Type A work pass! Feel free to ask if you have any specific questions or need more information!

Process

Gather Required Documents:

• Proof of Previous Employment: Show proof that you have worked in Belgium for at least four years with a Type B pass. This could include your job contract, pay stubs, or letters of recommendation from past companies.
• Proof of Residence: Things that prove you live in Belgium, like a rental agreement or your energy bills.
• Passport Photo: Make sure your picture is up-to-date and meets the standard requirements for passport photos (for example, it should have a clear background and a good expression).

Submit Your Application:

• Where to Submit: To apply, you must go to the regional job office in your area, such as the Office for Foreigners, the VDAB in Flanders, the Forem in Wallonia, or Actiris in Brussels.
• Submission Tips: Even though chocolates aren’t required, it’s still a good idea to be nice and professional when you send in your work. Check to see if, depending on where you live, you need to fill out certain forms or bring in extra proof.

Wait for Approval:

• Processing Time: You may have to wait a few weeks because the working time varies. During this time, the authorities will look over your application and any other papers that go with it.
• Notification: As soon as your application is accepted, the hiring authority will let you know.

Receive Your Type A Permit:

• You will be given a Type A work permit once it is approved. This will let you work for any employer in Belgium without any limits. You can now look for work with any company at any time!

Work Permit Type B: The Tried and True Starter Pack

Eligibility

Job Offer Requirement:

• You need to have a real job offer from a company in Belgium. The company has to show that they couldn’t find a person from the European Union (EU) or the European Economic Area (EEA) who could fill the job. Usually, this means that the employer has to show proof of their attempts to hire.

Eligible Occupation:

• You must be able to do the job as a non-EU national in order for it to be given to you. There is a list of shortage occupations in Belgium. This list includes areas where skilled people are needed. Here are some examples of jobs that are eligible:
  • IT Professionals (e.g., software developers, data analysts)
  • Healthcare Workers (e.g., doctors, nurses)
  • Engineers (e.g., civil, mechanical, and electrical engineers)
  • Other fields like hospitality, construction, and logistics may also be included in the shortage list.

Process

Single Permit: The Ultimate Combo Deal

Like deals where you can get two things for the price of one? The Single Permit is a smart package that has both a housing permit and a work permit in one. It’s great for people who want to live and work in Belgium for a long time.

1. Job Contract Requirement:
   • You need to find a job deal with a longer-than-90-day contract. This rule makes sure that you will have a job for a long time, which is an important part of getting a work permit.
2. Eligible Positions:
   • The pass can be used for a lot of different jobs in a lot of different fields, such as:
     • Technology (e.g., IT specialists, software developers)
     • Construction (e.g., skilled tradespeople, engineers)
     • Other fields such as healthcare, finance, and logistics.
3. Salary Requirements:
   • Some regions, like Flanders, Wallonia, and Brussels, have different salary standards, but as a general rule, you should aim for a competitive salary of at least €55,000 per year. Getting this pay or more can help make sure that your application is looked at positively.

Application Process for Work Permit:

1. Employer’s Role:
   • The boss is the one who needs to apply for the work permit on your behalf. They will have to show that they need a worker from outside the EU and couldn’t find a good EU option.
2. Required Documents from You:
   • In order to support your application, you will need to send the following:
     • Proof of Qualifications: Evidence of your educational and professional background that is related to the job.
     • Certified Copy of Your Degree: Make sure your title is official and, if needed, translated into one of the official languages of Belgium, which are Dutch, French, or German.
3. Application Processing:
   • The authorities will process the application once your boss sends it along with your papers to the right people. It could take a few weeks for this to happen, so please be patient during this time.
4. Receiving Your Work Permit:
   • Once you are approved, you will get an all-in-one work pass that lets you legally live and work in Belgium without any other permits or paperwork.

European Blue Card: For the Highly Skilled Dreamers

Do you like things that move quickly? You might be a good fit for the European Blue Card! Belgium wants skilled people from outside the EU, especially those with skills in IT, engineering, and healthcare. This is the VIP lane.

1. Higher Education Degree:
   • You must hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
2. Job Offer:
   • Secure a job offer that meets the minimum salary threshold. For 2025, this is approximately €55,000 annually.
3. EU Mobility:
   • The Blue Card not only allows you to work in Belgium but also facilitates employment opportunities across other EU countries in the future.

Application Process:

1. Find a Job:
   • Find job openings that fit your qualifications as a first step. It can be helpful to network and use job boards.
2. Gather Credentials:
   • Prepare all necessary documentation, including:
     • Your higher education degree(s)
     • A detailed CV
     • Any relevant professional certifications
     • References from previous employers
3. Employer’s Role:
   • Your boss has to show that they need to hire you and that there aren’t any good local options for the job. In this case:
     • Submitting proof of their recruitment efforts.
     • Justifying the need for your specific skills.
4. Application Submission:
   • When your boss is done with their part, they will send the application to the Belgian government.
   • Make sure that all of the papers are filled out correctly and turned in by the due date.
5. Approval and Arrival:
   • As long as your application is accepted, you will be able to live and work in Belgium with your Blue Card.
   • After that, get ready for your move by learning about the language, habits, and services that can help you get settled.
6. Career Development:
   • When you get to Belgium, make the most of the chances to network and advance your career in your field.

Read Also: Belgium Work VISA With Family for Highly Qualified Workers

Self-Employed Visa: For the Entrepreneurs and Freelancers

Want to be your own boss? Belgium lets self-employed people live and work there with its Professional Card, which is like a work pass for entrepreneurs, freelancers, and business owners.

Eligibility:

• You need a well-thought-out business plan. As a helpful hint, it’s a good idea to talk about how your business will help the economy of Belgium.
• Show that you have the money to run your business.

Process:

• Submit an application with a detailed plan and financial projections to the Belgian embassy.
• Wait for approval (yes, it’s nerve-wracking, but worth it). Once you have the card, you’re free to start your business journey in Belgium, and—beer tasting as a profession doesn’t count (yet).

Intra-Company Transfer Permit: For Corporate Climbers

If you already work for a foreign company, an Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) permit is the fastest way to start doing business in Belgium.

Eligibility:

• Before the move, you must have worked for the company for at least three months.
• You must be a manager, an expert, or a trainee.

Process:

• The paperwork is taken care of by your boss, and you just need to pack your bags.
• With an ICT permit, you can stay in Belgium for one to three years. And yes, Dutch company bonuses are as sweet as their pralines.

Apply Here

• https://www.belgium.be/en/work/coming_to_work_in_belgium/work_permit
• https://www.euraxess.be/belgium/information-assistance/work-permit
• https://immigration-portal.ec.europa.eu/belgium-highly-qualified-worker_en
• https://www.apply.eu/BlueCard/Belgium/

Conclusion

Belgium presents an enticing opportunity for those looking to work and build a life in Europe. With a variety of work permits tailored to different career paths and aspirations, from skilled professionals to aspiring entrepreneurs, your dream of living in this beautiful country is within reach. Whether you’re drawn by the rich culture, delectable cuisine, or vibrant job market, now is the time to explore your options. Armed with the knowledge in this guide, you’re ready to embark on your journey to a successful and fulfilling life in Belgium. Don’t forget to enjoy some chocolate and beer along the way!

Frequently Asked Questions