Professional card for foreign entrepreneurs

Foreign nationals who wish to pursue a self-employed professional activity in the territory of the Flemish Region require a professional card to do so. Certain categories of foreign nationals are exempt from that obligation.

Fast-track Innovation & Startup Permit from 1 September 2026

Flanders Investment & Trade will henceforth use the term ‘Innovation & Startup Permit’ for the professional permit procedure for innovative entrepreneurs and start-ups. With this new name, FIT Flanders aims to raise its international profile and attract more innovative entrepreneurs and start-ups.

Non-EU self-employed persons may be eligible for fast-track processing under this procedure. To qualify, the application must include a signed letter in WORD (in Dutch)or PDF (in Dutch)format confirming that the entrepreneur is being mentored by or collaborating with an innovator, incubator or knowledge institution in Flanders. The conditions of the professional card procedure remain unchanged.

Check quickly whether you need a professional card

With the simulator, you can check whether or not you need a professional card to start and pursue your self-employed activity in Belgium as a foreign national.

To the simulator

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Report a violation related to employment and the social economy, or file a complaint if you are a victim or witness of discrimination.

Professional card for foreign entrepreneurs

Fast-track Innovation & Startup Permit from 1 September 2026

Check quickly whether you need a professional card

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