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Employing a foreigner in Flanders: categories

For foreigners coming to work in Flanders, the employer must first obtain a work permit. The type of work the foreigner will perform determines whether they will be admitted to the labour market.

Categories of foreign workers who are eligible

Unless you are exempt, a work permit can only be granted if the foreigner’s work is part of the following categories. Separate conditions and procedures apply to each category.


When employing minors, i.e. persons under the age of 18, an additional condition regarding compulsory education (not compulsory schooling) must be stated on the work permit. This falls under the general labour regulations concerning minor employees (in Dutch)(opens in new window).

  1. Highly skilledHighly skilled
    • At least a bachelor’s or master’s degree (min. 3 years) or leads to educational qualification level 5
    • Conditions in relation to minimum income
  5. Seasonal workerSeasonal worker
    • Seasonal activities in the horticultural or hospitality sectors
    • Employer demonstrates that they cannot find anyone else on the local labour market
  15. JournalistJournalist
    • Exclusively linked to foreign newspaper, press agency or radio or television station
    • If it is for a maximum of 90 days, the employer does not require a work permit
  16. European Blue CardEuropean Blue Card
    • Highly-skilled foreigners can work for at least 6 months according to certain conditions
    • Valid for any employer after one year of effective employment
  19. Au pairAu pair
    • Living costs and accommodation in exchange for performing light household tasks
    • Cultural education and language enrichment take precedence
  20. VolunteerVolunteer
    • Approved volunteer programme (European Solidarity Corps)
    • Permit for 1 year maximum
  21. Other categoriesOther categories
    • Employer cannot find anyone else on the local labour market
    • The function is on the shortage occupation list of the VDAB (Flemish Employment Service)

Frequently asked questions

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Contact

Team arbeidskaarten

For questions on right of residence, please contact the Immigration Office (DVZ)(opens in new window) or the Agency for Integration and Civic Integration(opens in new window).