Belgium Jobs for Immigrants – Work in Belgium

Looking to work in one of Europe’s most multicultural and economically stable countries? Belgium might be your next great opportunity. Nestled in the heart of Europe, Belgium offers immigrants not only a high standard of living but also diverse job opportunities across a wide range of sectors.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to find a job in Belgium as an immigrant, the most in-demand sectors, visa processes, and tips to land a job faster. Whether you’re an unskilled worker, a tech professional, or a nurse, there’s something here for you.

Why Work in Belgium?

Belgium is more than just waffles and chocolate. It’s home to key international organizations like the European Union headquarters and NATO, making it an attractive hub for global talent. The country boasts:

• A high minimum wage (€2,029.88/month as of 2025)

• Strong labor protections and social benefits

• Excellent public transportation and healthcare

• A diverse, multilingual population

Languages spoken: Dutch, French, and German (English is widely used in business)

Population (2024): ~11.7 million
Unemployment Rate: 5.8% (Statbel, 2024)
Foreign-born residents: Over 17% of the population

In-Demand Jobs for Immigrants in Belgium

1. Healthcare Sector

Belgium has a growing elderly population, which means demand for nurses, caregivers, and medical specialists is increasing.

In-demand roles:

• Registered Nurses (especially in Flanders)

• Elderly Care Assistants

• Physiotherapists

Real-world example:
Many Filipino nurses have successfully migrated to Belgium under bilateral agreements.

2. IT and Tech

Belgium’s digital transformation is creating roles for developers and tech support experts.

Hot tech jobs:

• Software Developers (Java, Python)

• IT Support Technicians

• Data Analysts

• Cybersecurity Specialists

3. Engineering

There’s a shortage of engineers across Belgium, particularly in:

• Civil Engineering

• Electrical Engineering

• Mechanical Engineering

Tip: Fluency in English is often enough in international engineering firms.

4. Logistics and Transportation

As a trade hub, Belgium requires workers in:

• Truck driving

• Warehouse operations

• Supply chain coordination

5. Hospitality and Cleaning Services

Especially in Brussels and tourist hotspots:

• Hotel staff

• Restaurant workers

• Housekeepers and cleaners

6. Agricultural & Seasonal Jobs

Available mostly in Wallonia and Flanders:

• Fruit/vegetable picking

• Greenhouse workers

External Resource: You can find official labor shortage lists on VDAB (Flanders) and Le Forem (Wallonia).

Work Permits & Visa Options for Immigrants

Belgium has three work regions—Flanders, Wallonia, and Brussels—each with its own immigration policies. Here’s a breakdown of the work authorization process:

Single Permit (Combined Work + Residence)

Required if you’re staying longer than 90 days. Your employer typically initiates the application.

See More:Ireland Jobs for Immigrants – Work in Ireland

EU Blue Card

For highly skilled workers earning a higher salary threshold (approx. €55,000/year). Fast-track option with more mobility within EU states.Short-Term Work Permits

For seasonal or temporary jobs under 90 days.

Student Visa to Work Route

Foreign students can work part-time during studies and apply for a post-study work visa.

Tip: Always check with Belgium’s Official Immigration Portal for the latest rules.

How to Find Jobs in Belgium (Step-by-Step Guide)

Looking to land a job from abroad or after arriving in Belgium? Here’s how to start:

1. Prepare a Localized CV

Belgian CVs are:

• Max 2 pages

• Clear, with no fluff

• Include language skills and diplomas

2. Use Job Portals

Top platforms include:

• Indeed Belgium

• VDAB

• Le Forem

• Actiris

• EURES: EU-wide job search portal

3. Check Employer Sponsorship

Look for companies willing to sponsor work permits:

• Tech startups

• Hospitals

• Logistics firms

4. Networking

Don’t underestimate:

• LinkedIn

• Facebook groups like “Expats in Belgium”

• Local career fairs

Language Requirements & Integration

• Dutch is required in Flanders

• French is required in Wallonia

• German is used in the East

• English is widely spoken in Brussels and in international firms

Pro Tip: Enroll in free or subsidized language courses offered by regional governments after arriving.

Salaries and Work Culture

Average Monthly Salaries (2024)

Workweek: 38 hours
Paid leave: Minimum 20 days/year
Public Holidays: 10 per year

Cost of Living and Housing for Immigrants

Living tips:

• Shared apartments help reduce costs

• Use sites like Immoweb for rentals

• Learn about your tenancy rights (very tenant-friendly in Belgium)

Pros and Cons of Working in Belgium

Pros:

• High-quality healthcare and education

• Centrally located for EU travel

• Multicultural and inclusive

• Public support for integration

Cons:

• Bureaucracy can be slow

• Learning local languages takes time

• Taxes are high (but come with good services)

Success Story: From Nigeria to Belgium

Tunde, a 33-year-old software engineer from Lagos, applied to a Brussels-based fintech company through LinkedIn. After three interviews and a successful Blue Card application, he relocated in 2023.

“Learning Dutch wasn’t easy, but the opportunity here has changed my life,” he says.

Conclusion:

• Tailor every job application.

• Learn basic French or Dutch, even before arriving.

• Apply through both formal and informal channels.

• Reach out to immigrant support groups for mentorship.