Belgium is a key European destination for companies looking to hire international talent. For non-EU employees, specific immigration procedures must be followed to remain compliant and avoid delays. Belgium is divided into several regions (Brussels, Flanders, and Wallonia) each with its own rules and procedures, which makes the immigration process quite complex. Following the correct procedure is essential, as applications may otherwise be delayed or rejected.

Immigration procedures for non-EU employees

Single permit/visa D (long-term permit)

A single permit is a combined work and residence permit for future employees who will work and stay in Belgium for more than 3 months.

The employer or it’s agent applies to the competent regional authority.

Required documents always include a valid passport and a countersigned labour agreement. Depending on the region, more documents are required. Anywr Belgium will inform you and your employee about the specifics.

Processing time for single permits in Belgium

The processing time for the single permit is currently 4 to 5 months after submission, depending on the region you apply for. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is facing a significant backlog following legislative changes introduced earlier in 2025.

After approval, the employee applies for an entry D-visa at the Belgian consulate in their country of residence. The visa process is about 2 weeks.

Requirements

Depending on the permit category you apply for, salary thresholds apply.

The 2026 salary thresholds are known for Wallonia and Brussels for the moment, hereunder the yearly amounts:

The 2026 amounts for the Flanders area are not known yet. Until publication of the new amounts, the 2025 thresholds will apply:

Other work permits in Belgium

Belgium offers several categories of single permits, including highly skilled workers, the EU Blue Card, ICT, detached workers, and others. Each permit has its own eligibility criteria and specific requirements regarding employment conditions, documentation, and salary thresholds. Anywr supports you in identifying the most suitable permit option based on your needs and the practical realities of the market.

Short-term permit

In general, non-EU nationals coming to work in Belgium for less than 90 days are also required to apply for a Work Permit B or a short-term work authorization, depending on the region where they will work. This process is faster than the single permit procedure, as it only requires a work authorization and a C visa. The work authorization is typically approved within 10 to 30 days.

Switching procedures

In certain situations, it is possible to request a change of status, such as from dependent to worker, from student to worker, or a change of employer. In these cases, it is essential to first assess your personal situation and the applicable timelines for the procedure. Anywr Belgium is available to support you with these changes.

Partners

For partners of non-EU single permit holders, they receive a type A residence permit, granting them open access to the labour market with any employer, with its validity mirroring the main applicant's permit, streamlining family integration under Belgian immigration rules for third-country nationals.

Practical tip for HR managers

Start the permit process as early as possible, especially for single permits, which can take up to five to six months to obtain. Be sure to verify regional requirements, including salary thresholds and shortage occupation lists. Working with expert partners such as Anywr Belgium can help prevent mistakes and accelerate the onboarding process.

How Anywr Belgium can help

Anywr Belgium supports companies and their employees with immigration management and relocation services. Our immigration coordinators have in-depth knowledge of the different application processes across all regions. We monitor the expiry dates of employees’ permits to ensure extension procedures are initiated on time. Together, we help keep your company fully compliant.

More info

Would you like to receive more information on how Anywr Belgium can help you stay compliant, or on any other relocation-related topic?

Please contact us at hello.belgium@anywr-group.com and you’ll receive our reaction within one working day.