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Entry visa for non-EU nationals planning to stay in Belgium longer than 90 days for reasons such as study, family, or self-sufficiency. Must be converted to a residence permit upon arrival at the municipal office.
Combined work and residence permit for non-EU nationals. The employer initiates the application through the regional employment authority. Salary thresholds apply: approximately 42,000 EUR/year for standard applications.
For highly qualified non-EU professionals with a university degree and a job offer meeting the minimum annual salary of approximately 57,000 EUR. Provides a pathway to long-term EU residency after 5 years.
For non-EU spouses and minor children of Belgian citizens or legally resident non-EU nationals. The sponsor must meet minimum income requirements; work rights are generally included after the initial 1-year period.
EU/EEA and Swiss citizens have the right to live and work freely. Register with local authorities within 3 months of arrival.
Belgium is an EU member, so EU/EEA/Swiss citizens enjoy full freedom of movement and can register as residents without a visa. Non-EU expats typically need a long-stay Type D visa before entering, followed by a residence permit obtained through the local commune. The process is manageable but involves significant paperwork, including police checks and proof of sufficient financial resources.
Belgium offers work permits under three main categories: the Single Permit (combining residence and work authorization), the European Blue Card for highly skilled non-EU workers, and intra-company transfer permits. Employers generally act as sponsors and must prove no EU candidate was available for the role. Permit validity is typically tied to the employment contract.
Spouses and dependent children of permit holders may apply for family reunification visas, provided the sponsor meets income and housing thresholds (generally around EUR 1,300-1,500/month net). Family members from outside the EU must apply from their home country before joining the sponsor.
Belgium taxes residents on worldwide income, with rates up to 50% for the highest bracket. A special expat tax regime (the 2022 expat regime) allows qualifying international employees to exclude 30% of gross remuneration from Belgian tax for up to five years. Belgium has an extensive network of over 90 double tax treaties.
Belgium has a high-quality public healthcare system funded by social security contributions — expats on Belgian employment contracts are automatically enrolled. Private health insurance is recommended for early months before social security kicks in, and is mandatory for non-working residents.
Opening a bank account in Belgium typically requires proof of residence registration (commune registration), ID, and employment documentation. Major banks include BNP Paribas Fortis, KBC, ING, and Belfius; online banks like Beobank are also accessible to expats.
Belgium does not have a dedicated golden visa or investor residency program. Wealthy individuals may obtain residence through self-employment or directorship of a Belgian company, demonstrating economic benefit to the country. There is no minimum investment threshold, but the process requires detailed business plans and approval from regional economic authorities.