Belgium | Work permit changes in Brussels

The Belgian government introduced changes to work permit regulations in the Brussels Capital Region.

Key Points:

• Effective Oct. 1, the government will change how minimum salary thresholds are calculated for certain work permits. Only the basic monthly remuneration will be considered, and the threshold will be based on a percentage of the average gross monthly salary in the Brussels Capital Region (EUR 4,604, or about US$5,075). For these specific categories, the gross amount per month required will be:
  • Highly skilled single permit: EUR 3,591.12 (78% of the average)
  • EU Blue Card: EUR 4,604 (100% of the average)
  • Intra-company transfer (manager): EUR 5,294.60 (115% of the average)
• Belgium’s new regulations also implement the new Blue Card Directive:
  • Foreign nationals with five years of professional experience in a relevant field may now qualify for an EU Blue Card; previously, all applicants required relevant academic experience.
  • Information and communication technology managers professionals with at least three years of relevant work experience in the last seven years are also now eligible for the EU Blue Card and do not require higher education qualifications.
• EU Blue Card holders will also be able to change employers within the first 12 months of employment.

Additional Information: As part of the changes, the government is changing the name of “work permit B” to either a “short-term work authorization” or a “long-term work authorization.” In addition, employers will no longer be required to send documents for an annual compliance notification if a work authorization is granted for more than one year. Unlimited work authorization will be granted for employees residing in Belgium for at least 30 months without interruption who can also provide proof of 30-month employment through a single permit or work authorization obtained in the Brussels Capital Region.

BAL Analysis: The work permit regulations will change on Oct. 1 and apply to non-European nationals working for an employer located in the Brussels Capital Region. Employers should be aware of and consider the increased thresholds in their business planning for calendar year 2025.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice Group.

Copyright © 2024 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries, please contact copyright@bal.com.