Major Changes to Brussels Region Immigration Policy

Introduction

On October 1, 2024, Belgium’s Brussels Region is implementing additional significant changes to its immigration policy, impacting foreign workers and their employers.

Impact:
High

What has changed?

The changes to immigration policy applicable to Brussels are scheduled to include the following:

1. Stricter Interpretation of Minimum Salary Levels, for Highly Skilled Single Permit, EU Blue Card, and EU ICT permit (benefits-in-kind can no longer be counted towards meeting the salary threshold).
2. Removal of Annual Compliance Notifications - Brussels authorities will conduct yearly audits.
3. Exemptions from Labor Market Testing - Roles on the Brussels Region shortage occupation list will be exempt from labour market testing.
4. Simplified Change of Employer Rules - Foreign workers can change employers after 30 months. For EU Blue Card holders, the rules are even more flexible, allowing job changes within the first 12 months after notifying the Regional Employment Ministry and immediately after 12 months
5. New Professional Experience Pathways for EU Blue Card Holders – IT professionals without qualifications can qualify for an EU Blue Card based on their professional experience.
6. Clearer criteria for Self-Employed Workers in relation to eligibility, grounds for refusal, and renewal applications.
7. Several additional changes, including a simpler process for collective work authorizations, new document requirements for all permit applications, work authorization exemptions for researchers, and new refusal guidelines for certain permit types, will also go into effect this fall.

Who is affected?

Changes to the immigration policy in Brussels will impact Employers who must verify the salaries they offer are at the required level, foreign workers who are already in the Brussels area and applicants for an EU Blue Card

What to expect /impact?

For companies with a presence in Belgium, these changes mean a more streamlined and predictable process for hiring and retaining foreign talent. The reduced administrative burden, faster hiring processes for key positions and greater flexibility in employment conditions will contribute to a more efficient and competitive business environment in the Brussels region.

With these updates, companies can better navigate the complex immigration landscape, focus on growth and stay ahead of the competition. Stay informed and adapt their HR policies accordingly to take advantage of these changes for the success of your business.

What to expect /impact?

For further information on immigration for Belgium, please contact the Sterling Lexicon immigration team at immigration@sterlinglexicon.com