Work permit applicants experiencing processing delays

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? Belgium is experiencing delays in work permit processing.

What does the change mean? Processing is taking six to eight weeks in Brussels, eight to 12 weeks in Flanders, and four to six weeks in Wallonia.

• Implementation time frame: Ongoing.
• Visas/permits affected: Work permits.
• Who is affected: Employers and non-EU nationals applying for work permits in Belgium, regardless of the region. The delays are of particular concern to renewal applicants who may not be issued a new work permit before their initial work permit expires.
• Impact on processing times: Processing times are significantly longer than the standard two to three weeks.
• Business impact: Businesses may need to adjust timelines or start dates because of the delays.

Background: Officials have not provided much information about why work permit processing is so backed up, but it appears that the delays are due to a number of factors, including a new IT system, changes to internal procedures, short staffing and a backlog of applications left over from the winter holidays.

BAL Analysis: Applicants should anticipate that processing will take significantly longer than normal. The delays are of particular concern to renewal applicants, and those concerned that their work permit may expire before their new permit is issued should contact BAL.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Belgium. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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