Changes in Flemish Labor Laws: What You Need to Know! 🇧🇪

Work Permits for the Non-Highly Skilled

Getting work permits for non-highly skilled workers is about to get tougher. They’ll now only be eligible for a single permit in one of 241 specific professions listed by the Flemish employment agency. Proving no suitable European candidate is available is a must, and a vacancy must be published for at least 9 weeks with VDAB and on the EURES platform. Exceptions apply for 29 middle-skilled professions where no labor market research will be done. Additional scrutiny on professional experience is also on the horizon for non-highly skilled categories seeking single permits.

Financial Health Check for Companies

Companies’ financial health will be under the microscope. Bad credit or lack of economic activity might lead to permit refusal.

EU Blue Card Salary Bump

The minimum salary for an EU Blue Card jumps to 130% of the minimum for highly skilled workers, hitting €60,621.60 in 2024.

Now, let’s move on to the good news!

IT Specialists Rejoice

Long-term intra-company secondments in IT get a boost. From now on, 3 years of professional experience equals a university degree.

Discounts for Top Educators

Highly-skilled teachers get a salary cut to €37,305.60. Teaching talent, this one’s for you!

Flexibility for Seasonal Workers

Changing employers just got easier for seasonal workers.

Need assistance navigating work authorizations for your employees? We got you covered in any category, from high- to lower-skilled talent that you want to attract. We’ll also help your international employees find housing, and arrange health coverage, school registration, and town hall registrations. We’re here to guide you through the journey. Reach out to belux@expatmanagementgroup.com for an open conversation.