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Belgium visas

Belgium work visa

European Union single market citizens can work in Belgium without a visa. Belgium also permits ordinary visa-waiver nationals to work during their visa-free stay, but detailed work conditions are not specified here.

Ways to get a Belgium work visa

  2. Work during a visa-free short stay

    No visa needed

    Belgium permits all ordinary visa-waiver nationals to work during their visa-free stay.

    Stay
    Up to 90 days in any 180-day period across the Schengen Area.

  3. Temporary work under the Van Der Elst rule

    Other permit

    Certain workers from outside the European Union single market who are employed within it can work temporarily in another single market country for the same employer.

Who needs it

Workers outside the available exemptions need the applicable permission. Stays exceeding 90 days generally require a long-stay visa or residence permit.

Who doesn't

European Union single market citizens do not need a visa to work in Belgium. All ordinary visa-waiver nationals are listed as permitted to work during their visa-free stay.

Good to know

  • Keep within the stay allowed by your entry or residence permission.
  • Detailed Belgian work requirements are not specified here.
  • A business visit and paid work can involve different permissions.
  • Belgium also has a working holiday programme, described separately.

Questions

Do I need a work visa for Belgium?

Workers outside the available exemptions need the applicable permission. Stays exceeding 90 days generally require a long-stay visa or residence permit. European Union single market citizens do not need a visa to work in Belgium. All ordinary visa-waiver nationals are listed as permitted to work during their visa-free stay.

What are the ways to get a work visa for Belgium?

There are 3 options: Work under freedom of movement (no visa at all); Work during a visa-free short stay (no visa at all); Temporary work under the Van Der Elst rule (a special permit).

Who can go to Belgium without a work visa?

Citizens of European Union countries, Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein and Switzerland can live and work in Belgium without a visa. Belgium permits all ordinary visa-waiver nationals to work during their visa-free stay.

What rules do I have to follow on a Belgium work visa?

Keep within the stay allowed by your entry or residence permission. Detailed Belgian work requirements are not specified here.

Does my passport change whether I need a work visa for Belgium?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the Belgium visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a work visa for Belgium be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest Belgium work visa rules?

On Belgium's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my work visa once I am in Belgium?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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