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BelgiumWork permitsLast checked October 16, 2026

Single permit (gecombineerde vergunning / permis unique) – highly qualified worker

The single permit combines a regional work authorisation with a federal residence permit for non-EU workers staying more than 90 days. The region where the worker will mainly work (Flanders, Brussels-Capital or Wallonia) decides on work first, then the federal Immigration Office decides on residence. Applications go through the federal 'Working in Belgium' single window (Uniek Loket). Salary thresholds and some conditions differ by region.

See requirements ↓

Life in Belgium

Money

3

Currency

Euro

EUR

Euro

Cost of living

87

Price level · US = 100

World Bank price levels, 2025

Tax

25–50%

Income tax (national)

VAT 21%

Tax-free allowance EUR 11,180 (income 2026); 50% above EUR 51,070; plus municipal surcharge, typically 0-9% of the tax.

Official rates, 2026 · headline only

Living

1

Happiness

6.9

#14 of 145 countries

World Happiness Report 2025

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Who it’s for

Highly qualified non-EU workers with a job offer from an employer in Belgium (or seconded by a foreign employer), meeting the regional salary threshold.

Eligibility

  • Flanders – diplomaFlanders

    You need a level 5 or higher diploma from a state-recognised institution, and you must perform a highly qualified function.

    • Accepted: graduaat, bachelor, master, doctorate
    • Diplomas from private institutions are not accepted
    Official wording

    A higher education diploma at level 5 or above (graduaat, bachelor, master, doctorate) from a state-recognised institution; private-institution diplomas are not accepted. The worker must perform a highly qualified function.

  • Flanders – salaryFlanders

    You need to earn at least the Flanders gross yearly salary threshold for your situation.

    Minimum gross salary per year (Flanders)

    2025 amounts still apply in 2026
    Over 30local contract, per year
    EUR 48,912
    Under 30
    EUR 39,129.60
    Nurse or teacherrecognised institutions
    EUR 39,129.60
    Seconded worker
    EUR 48,912
    • New Statbel data is pending
    Official wording

    2025 thresholds still apply in 2026 pending new Statbel data: EUR 48,912 gross a year (over 30, local contract); EUR 39,129.60 for under-30s or nurses/teachers in recognised institutions; EUR 48,912 for seconded workers.

  • Brussels – salaryBrussels-Capital

    You need to earn at least the Brussels gross monthly salary for your job type.

    Minimum gross salary per month (Brussels)

    Highly qualified78% of regional average wage
    EUR 3,703.44
    Management
    EUR 6,647.20
    Official wording

    Highly qualified personnel: at least EUR 3,703.44 gross per month (78% of the regional average wage); management EUR 6,647.20 per month.

A sneak peek at what's inside

  • Next requirementWallonia – qualification
  • Document checklistValid passport (and Belgian residence permit if already in Belgium)
  • FeesFlemish regional fee per single permit application (first and renewal)

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  • 5 more requirements
  • 10 documents
  • 2 fees
  • 8 steps
  • Processing times and conditions
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