Belgium Work Visa Application Process

Belgium is fast emerging as one of the top destinations in Europe for skilled foreign professionals. With a strategic location, thriving industries, and a high standard of living, the country presents a golden opportunity for individuals seeking high-paying careers abroad.

Whether you’re looking for a long-term job in finance, engineering, or healthcare—or exploring seasonal work in tourism or agriculture—this guide walks you through the Belgium Work Visa application process, including eligibility, visa types, application steps, and how to find jobs that offer sponsorship.

Why Choose Belgium for Work?

Belgium is not just home to waffles and the EU headquarters—it’s also known for:

• A central location in Europe with easy access to France, Germany, the Netherlands, and beyond

• A strong and stable economy, especially in tech, healthcare, logistics, and engineering

• Multilingual workplaces, with jobs available in English, French, Dutch, or German

• A commitment to work-life balance, generous holidays, and excellent healthcare

• A welcoming visa policy for skilled workers and seasonal employees from outside the EU/EEA

For non-EU professionals, securing a Belgium Work Visa opens the door to new opportunities in a country that values global talent.

What is a Belgium Work Visa?

A Belgium Work Visa is a legal permit that allows non-EU/EEA citizens to live and work in Belgium. In most cases, it requires a job offer from a Belgian employer and can be used for:

• Long-term employment

• Seasonal work (agriculture, hospitality, tourism)

• Self-employment or freelancing (via a professional card)

• Intra-company transfers

• Highly skilled migrant opportunities

Once issued, the visa allows entry into Belgium, where applicants will also need to register locally and apply for a residence permit.

Types of Work Visas in Belgium

1. Single Permit (Combined Work and Residence Permit)

For stays longer than 90 days.

• Requires job offer and employer sponsorship

• Applies to most foreign employees

• Valid up to 4 years (renewable)

2. Work Permit Type B

Issued for specific job offers when employers prove no suitable local candidate is available.

• Often used for mid-level or short-term jobs

• Duration: 12 months (renewable)

3. Professional Card

For self-employed workers and freelancers.

• Requires business plan and proof of funds

• Must demonstrate economic benefit to Belgium

4. Seasonal Work Permit

Ideal for agriculture, hospitality, or tourism roles.

• Up to 150 days/year

• Requires employer sponsorship and contract

Eligibility Criteria for Belgium Work Visa (2025)

To apply for a Belgium Work Visa, you must:

• ✅ Be a non-EU/EEA national

• ✅ Have a job offer from a Belgian employer

• ✅ Possess a signed employment contract

• ✅ Provide relevant qualifications or certifications

• ✅ Show proof of accommodation in Belgium

• ✅ Provide criminal background clearance

• ✅ Have valid health insurance (employer or private)

• ✅ Demonstrate financial means to support yourself

Note: Some roles require a labour market test, where employers must prove they couldn’t fill the position with a local candidate.

Where to Find Belgium Jobs with Visa Sponsorship

Whether you’re seeking a high-paying permanent role or a temporary seasonal job, these platforms are ideal:

💼 Government Job Platforms

• Federal Public Service Employment: Lists national shortages

• EURES Portal: Jobs across Europe with visa-friendly listings

🌐 Online Job Portals

• Indeed Belgium

• Monster Belgium

• LinkedIn Jobs

• StepStone Belgium

🤝 Recruitment Agencies

• Undutchables

• Michael Page

• Robert Walters

• Hays Belgium

🎯 Industry-Specific Sites

• XING (tech, IT, engineering)

• Saisonarbeit (agriculture, hospitality, seasonal jobs)

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How to Apply for a Belgium Work Visa (Step-by-Step)

✅ Step 1: Secure a Job Offer

Before you can apply, you must get an offer from a Belgian employer willing to sponsor your visa. The offer must include salary, job description, and contract terms.

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✅ Step 2: Employer Applies for Your Work Authorization

Your employer must submit a Single Permit application to the regional government:

• Flanders: Werk.be

• Brussels-Capital: werk-economie-emploi.brussels

• Wallonia: emploi.wallonie.be

They must provide:

• Job description

• Salary details

• Proof of labour market test (if required)

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✅ Step 3: Collect Your Documents

You’ll need to prepare:

• Valid passport (12+ months validity)

• Signed job contract

• Diploma/degree certificates

• Translated documents (French, Dutch, or German if needed)

• Proof of health insurance

• Criminal background check

• Accommodation confirmation (rental agreement or employer letter)

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✅ Step 4: Submit Visa Application

Once your work authorization is approved, apply for your visa at a Belgian embassy or consulate in your country.

• Complete the visa form

• Pay the application fee (€180 approx.)

• Book a biometric appointment

• Attend an interview (if required)

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✅ Step 5: Wait for Visa Approval

Visa processing typically takes 1 to 3 months, depending on:

• Your country of residence

• The time of year

• Accuracy of documents

• Background checks

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✅ Step 6: Travel to Belgium and Register

Upon arrival:

• Register at the local town hall (commune/gemeente)

• Obtain your residence card

• Open a bank account, register for healthcare, and begin work

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Belgium Work Visa Costs

Here’s a breakdown of expected expenses:

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Work Visa Processing Time in Belgium

The average processing time ranges from 4 to 12 weeks, depending on:

• The visa type

• Employer response time

• Seasonal volume

• Completeness of your documentation

• Embassy workload in your country

Tip: Apply 3 months before your intended start date to avoid delays.

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FAQs About the Belgium Work Visa (2025)

1. Can I bring my family to Belgium on a work visa?
Yes. After your visa is approved, you can apply for family reunification to bring your spouse and children.

2. Do I need to speak French or Dutch to work in Belgium?
Not necessarily. Many jobs, especially in tech and international firms, use English. But learning a local language improves integration and job prospects.

3. Can I change jobs on a Belgium Work Visa?
Yes, but you’ll need a new work authorization from your next employer.

4. How long is the work visa valid?
Typically valid for the duration of your job contract, up to four years. Renewable. After 5 years, you may apply for permanent residency.

5. Is Belgium open to seasonal workers?
Yes. Short-term permits are available for agriculture, tourism, and hospitality roles during peak seasons.

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Conclusion: Start Your Belgium Career Journey Today

With a transparent application process, generous labor protections, and a thriving economy, Belgium is an excellent destination for skilled professionals and seasonal workers alike.

From high-paying corporate roles to flexible seasonal jobs, visa-sponsored opportunities are within your reach—if you follow the right steps. Start by researching open roles, applying to Belgian employers, and preparing your documentation early.

Your path to a better life and career in Europe could begin with a single job offer in Belgium.