How to Find a Job in Belgium as a Foreigner: A Practical Guide

Belgium is not just about chocolate, beer, or medieval towns — it’s also a solid job market for foreigners who are willing to adapt, learn, and meet the legal requirements. If you’re from outside the EU and thinking about working in Belgium, you’ll need more than just motivation. Here’s a full guide to help you understand the local job scene, permit types, and what it really takes to succeed.

Who Can Work in Belgium?

For EU/EEA citizens and Swiss nationals, working in Belgium is pretty straightforward. No visa, no work permit. Just arrive, register, and start working. But if you're a third-country national — like someone from Ukraine, Morocco, India, or the Philippines — you’ll need to go through a more complex process.

The most common path for non-EU nationals is the Single Permit — a document that combines the right to work and reside in Belgium. It’s issued based on a confirmed job offer from a Belgian employer and typically covers contracts of more than 90 days. For shorter contracts, a Work Permit B might be required. There’s also the EU Blue Card — designed for highly qualified professionals with higher salaries and university degrees.

In all cases, the process starts with the employer applying on your behalf. Once approved, you can apply for a visa and eventually move to Belgium.

You can find a full breakdown of work permits and steps in the original article on jobs in Belgium for foreigners.

Where Are Foreign Workers Needed?

Belgium's labor market varies by region, but certain professions are always in high demand. These include:

• Electricians, plumbers, and general construction workers
• Nurses, caregivers, and other healthcare professionals
• Welders, mechanics, and machine operators
• Truck drivers and warehouse staff
• IT experts, developers, and system administrators
• Engineers across multiple sectors

While speaking Dutch, French, or German is a big plus, some companies — especially those operating internationally — hire English speakers. In Flanders, knowledge of Dutch is often required, whereas in Wallonia, French dominates. In Brussels, a mix of all three languages is common.

How to Search for Jobs in Belgium

Your job hunt should start with regional job portals like VDAB, Le Forem, or Actiris. These are public employment services and regularly post openings in both local languages and English. You can also check:

• EURES – the EU job mobility portal
• LinkedIn – many Belgian employers actively recruit here
• StepStone, Indeed.be, and Jobat – local job boards

Make sure your CV is clean and adapted to Belgian standards — no flashy designs, just clear professional information. Keep it to two pages max, and write a short, customized motivation letter for each position.

Some employers may conduct interviews in English, but if the role involves contact with local clients, a local language will be required.

Do I Need My Diploma Recognized?

It depends. For most jobs, especially in tech, logistics, or hospitality, recognition isn't mandatory. But for regulated professions like doctors, nurses, teachers, or engineers, you’ll likely need an official recognition of your diploma (known as equivalence). This process can take weeks or months, so start early.

How Much Can You Earn?

Minimum wages in Belgium are set by collective agreements and vary by sector. On average:

• Manual jobs: €1,900–2,300 gross per month
• Skilled workers and technicians: €2,400–3,000
• Engineers and IT specialists: €3,500+
• Healthcare professionals: €2,800–3,500

Keep in mind that taxes are relatively high, but you receive healthcare, unemployment insurance, and pension contributions in return.

Real Experiences of Foreigners

Many expats start small — cleaning, warehouse jobs, or hospitality — and then work their way up. Some combine part-time study with work to improve language skills and earn a local diploma.

Persistence matters. The bureaucracy can be slow. Employers don’t always respond quickly. But if you're legally in Belgium, have a valid permit, and show that you're serious, your chances improve with time.

Some have even started their own businesses once they obtained long-term residence.

Daily Life and Integration

Belgium offers strong labor protections, generous paid holidays, health coverage, and decent public services. Public transport is accessible, cities are safe, and you can travel easily across Europe.

However, integration can be challenging without language skills. Many regions offer free courses in Dutch or French to help new arrivals settle in. Community centers and expat groups are also a great way to build connections.

For more articles, tips, and resources on life and work in Belgium, visit the main Welcome Belgium portal.