Following visa changes that went into effect in May of this year, on October 1, 2024, the Brussels Region is implementing additional significant changes to its immigration policy, impacting foreign workers and their employers.
Here's a breakdown of key updates and their implications for businesses:
1. Stricter Interpretation of Minimum Salary Levels
For highly skilled roles, benefits-in-kind (like meal vouchers and insurance premiums) can no longer be counted towards meeting the salary threshold. Employers must now increase base salaries to meet requirements for highly qualified permits, including the Highly Skilled Single Permit, EU Blue Card, and EU ICT permit. This change demands a re-evaluation of compensation packages to ensure compliance.
2. Removal of Annual Compliance Notifications
Employers no longer need to send annual compliance notifications for work authorizations exceeding 12 months. Instead, Brussels authorities will conduct yearly audits. This shift reduces administrative burdens, allowing businesses to focus more on operations and less on tedious paperwork.
3. Exemptions from Labor Market Testing
Roles on the Brussels Region shortage occupation list will be exempt from labor market testing. This accelerates the hiring process, making it easier for businesses to fill critical positions quickly and efficiently.
4. Simplified Change of Employer Rules
Foreign workers can now change employers after 30 months, down from 48 months, without needing a new work permit. For EU Blue Card holders, the rules are even more flexible, allowing job changes within the first 12 months after notifying the Regional Employment Ministry and immediately after 12 months. This flexibility is crucial for retaining top talent and adapting to business needs in nearly all industries.
5. New Professional Experience Pathways for EU Blue Card Holders
Information technology professionals without academic qualifications can now qualify for an EU Blue Card based on their professional experience. This broadens the talent pool and helps address the labor shortage in the ever-growing tech sector.
6. Clearer Criteria for Self-Employed Workers
The application process for self-employed workers is becoming more transparent, with explicit criteria for eligibility, refusal, and renewal. This clarity helps businesses and individuals understand the requirements and reduces the risk of application denials.
7. Additional Changes
Several additional changes, including a simpler process for collective work authorizations, new document requirements for all permit applications, work authorization exemptions for researchers, and new refusal guidelines for certain permit types, will also go into effect this fall.
Why These Changes Matter
For businesses with a presence in Belgium, these changes mean a more streamlined and predictable process for hiring and retaining foreign talent. The reduced administrative burden, faster hiring processes for key roles, and greater flexibility in employment terms will all contribute to a more efficient and competitive business environment in the Brussels Region.
With these updates, companies can better navigate the complex immigration landscape, focus on growth, and stay ahead in the competitive market. Stay informed and adjust your HR policies accordingly to leverage these changes for your business's success.
And, remember, VisaHQ for Business is here to help.