“The old system dates back to the 1980s and has finally been adapted to current realities,” said the minister. Specifically, foreigners coming to work in Belgium will no longer need a separate document. The new regulations also apply to self-employed persons and posted workers (employees temporarily seconded by their employer, etc.).
According to the minister, the new system takes into account Brexit and the new European entry-exit system. “Administration will become simpler,” she states. “People living across the border and working here should be able to rely on clear and workable rules.”
For citizens of the European Union, the procedure will be significantly simplified. They will no longer need a separate Belgian document and can enter and leave our country using their identity card or passport to work here.
For nationals of countries outside the European Union, there will be two procedures. Those living in an neighbouring EU member state will need to register with the municipality where they work within eight days of their first entry. “After verifying the conditions, the cross-border worker will receive the necessary documents,” it is stated. “Those residing in the United Kingdom will need to apply for a specific visa at the relevant Belgian diplomatic post.”
Until now, the regulation for cross-border workers was limited to employees in paid employment. From 15 August, self-employed persons and posted workers will also be able to benefit. Data estimates that around 52,000 cross-border workers are active in Belgium.
“We are not only making the procedure clearer for those coming to work here, but also for our own services,” Van Bossuyt concludes. “We establish clear conditions for employment, grounds for refusal, and rules for termination.”
The initial translation of this content was generated by AI. All facts, context, and language have subsequently been verified and validated by a human editorial team.
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