Belgium, situated in Western Europe and hosting the headquarters of the European Union and NATO, is known for its diverse opportunities. If you are considering working in Belgium as a non-EU national, understanding the work visa process is crucial. This guide outlines the Belgium Work Visa Process for 2024, detailing the types of work permits, eligibility criteria, and the application procedure.
Who Needs a Belgium Work Permit, Visa, and Residence Permit?
To work in Belgium as a non-EU or EEA national, you will require a work permit, a long-stay visa, and a residence permit. It's essential to secure a job offer first, as the work permit application is based on your employment contract.
Who can Work in Belgium Without a Work Visa?
Citizens of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland can work in Belgium without a visa or work permit. Additionally, citizens of specific countries, including the United States, Japan, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia, can obtain a residence and work permit upon arrival without prior visa application.
Types of Belgium Work Permits
There are three main types of work permits for foreign nationals in Belgium:
1. Type A Permit: For highly skilled workers with unlimited validity, requiring a previous Type B permit for four years within a ten-year stay in Belgium.
2. Type B Permit: For individuals with a valid job offer from a Belgian employer, valid for one year and renewable with the same employer.
3. Type C Permit: For temporary workers, asylum seekers, or individuals with limited residency permits seeking short-term employment, with validity up to one year.
Seasonal Workers in Belgium
Belgium offers seasonal worker permits for those employed in sectors like agriculture, horticulture, or hospitality. Two permits are available based on the duration of stay: a short-stay permit (up to 90 days) and a long-stay permit (up to 150 days).
Requirements of a Belgium Work Visa
Required documents include your passport, application form, recent photo, and a work permit (single or work permit). The specific documents may vary by country, so it's advisable to check with the Belgian embassy in your country.
Note: The required documents vary from country to country. It is best to check with the Belgium embassy located in your country. The list of the embassies can be found here
How to Apply for the Belgium Work Visa?
The application process involves receiving a job offer, initiating the work permit application through the employer, applying for a work visa at the Belgian embassy, traveling to Belgium, and visiting the local town hall to receive the work and residence permit.
Visa Cost
The cost of a Belgium Work Visa is 180 Euros.
Processing Time
The processing time for visa applications can vary but may take up to 8 to 10 weeks on average, depending on the country of application.
Visa Validity
Long-stay visas are typically valid for one year, with the option to renew at the local city hall's Immigration Office.
Permanent Residency in Belgium
After living and working in Belgium for five years, individuals can apply for permanent residence or a work permit Type A, offering unlimited validity.
For more detailed information and updates, you can refer to the [Belgium Immigration Office]
