Key Takeaways:
- The Belgium EU Blue Card permits highly qualified non-EU citizens to live and work in Belgium under stringent eligibility criteria.
- Benefits include equal treatment, paid leave, insurance, freedom to travel, and access to Belgium’s pension system.
- The card is valid 1-3 years, extension possible; application can be made by the employee or employer with required documents.
What Is the Belgium EU Blue Card?
The Belgium EU Blue Card is a residence permit for highly qualified workers, allowing them to live and work in Belgium. The card serves as a pathway for non-EU citizens to gain employment in European Union countries, particularly Belgium, known for its high-income economy and exceptional living standards.
Who Is Eligible for the Belgium EU Blue Card?
To be eligible for a Belgium EU Blue Card, you need to meet specific criteria:
- Higher Education Degree: You must hold a degree from a recognized institution of higher education.
- Employment Contract: You need to have concluded an employment contract for at least one year in a highly qualified job.
- Minimum Salary Threshold: Your gross annual salary must meet or exceed the minimum salary threshold determined by Belgium. This threshold may vary depending on the region:
- Flanders: €54,115 annually
- Brussels: €57,019 annually
- Legal Requirements: You must fulfill Belgium’s national legal requirements.
- No Security Risk: You should not pose any security risk to the public policy of Belgium.
What Are the Benefits of Holding a Belgium EU Blue Card?
Having a Belgium EU Blue Card entitles you to numerous benefits:
- Equal Treatment: You receive the same treatment as Belgian citizens in areas like working conditions and social security.
- Paid Leaves and Holidays:
- Public Holidays: 10 paid public holidays annually. If a holiday falls on a weekend, you can choose another day within the same calendar year.
- Vacation: 20 days of paid leave after a year of full-time work, with up to three extra days per five years of service.
- Sabbatical Leave: Option to purchase up to 10 additional vacation days, deducted from your monthly salary.
- Insurance: Coverage in case of hospitalization or critical illness.
- Minimum Wage: Revised in 2022:
- Age 18: €1,691.40 per month
- Age 19 with 6 months seniority: €1,736.28 per month
- Age 20 with 12 months seniority: €1,756.23 per month
- Working Hours:
- Regular: Maximum 40 hours per week, up to 8 hours a day.
- Overtime: At least 50% extra wage during weekdays and 100% on Sundays and public holidays.
- Freedom of Movement: Travel to 154 countries.
- Pension Plans and Retirement Contributions: Access to Belgium’s robust pension system.
Can I Work as a Self-Employed Individual on a Belgium EU Blue Card?
No, the Belgium EU Blue Card is not available for self-employed individuals. If you plan to work as a self-employed professional, you will need to apply for a Professional Card instead.
What Professions Are Covered Under the Belgium EU Blue Card?
The Blue Card for Belgium covers a variety of highly qualified roles, including but not limited to:
- Accountant
- Administrative Staff
- Architect
- Electrician
- Pharmacist
- Plumber
- Joiner
- Plasterer
- Engineer
- Technician
- IT Staff
- Nurse and Midwife
- Project Manager
- Technical and Commercial Sales Representatives
How Long Is the Belgium EU Blue Card Valid?
The card is valid for one to three years, depending on the duration of your employment contract. If your contract is longer than a year, your employer must submit an annual inspection form, along with payslips and an individual account.
How to Renew Your Belgium EU Blue Card?
To renew the Blue Card, you will need:
- A copy of your employer’s or their agent’s identity card.
- Proof of insurance coverage for you and your family.
What Is the Application Procedure for the Belgium EU Blue Card?
The application process for the Belgium Blue Card can be initiated by either you or your employer:
Applying By Yourself
- Visit the Belgian embassy or consulate in your home country.
- Fill out the application form with required details.
- Collect necessary documents.
- Submit your application and documents.
- Travel to Belgium to collect your single permit from your local commune.
Applying Through Your Employer
- The employer submits a work authorization request through the OSS (One-Stop Shop).
- Belgian authorities assess the application.
- Notification of approval or rejection is sent to the employer.
What Documents Are Required for the Belgium EU Blue Card?
When applying, you should prepare the following documents:
- Completed EU Blue Card application form.
- Valid passport issued in the last ten years.
- Health insurance proof or application.
- Police clearance certificate in English, German, Dutch, or French.
- Statement from the employer regarding mutual insurance fund inclusion.
- Proof of paid fees.
- Proof of qualifications such as diplomas or work certificates.
What if My Belgium EU Blue Card Application Is Rejected?
If your application is rejected, Belgian authorities will notify your employer. They can appeal within 30 days from the notification date.
How Long Does It Take to Process the Belgium EU Blue Card?
Authorities generally reach a decision within three months from the submission date. However, processing time may extend beyond 12 weeks in special circumstances.
What Is the Cost of the Belgium EU Blue Card?
The fee for obtaining a Belgium EU Blue Card is €358.
Can I Change Employers on a Belgium EU Blue Card?
After two years of employment, you can switch employers without needing prior work authorization, as long as your Blue Card is still valid.
How to Apply for a New Belgium EU Blue Card When Changing Employers?
You will need:
- A copy of your new employer’s identity card.
- A copy of the first page of your passport.
- A copy of your current EU Blue Card.
- A signed employment contract that complies with Belgian law.
Can I Bring My Family to Belgium With the EU Blue Card?
Yes, your dependents, including spouse, children, and parents, can join you if you have sufficient funds to support them. They must apply for a long-stay visa.
Can I Work in Other EU Countries With a Belgium EU Blue Card?
You can move and work in another EU country after spending 18 months in Belgium. However, remember to apply for a new EU Blue Card in the new host country.
To know more about the specifics of the EU Blue Card, visit the official European Commission page on Blue Card directive.
This comprehensive guide to the Belgium EU Blue Card should help you understand the process, benefits, and obligations involved. Whether you are a highly qualified worker aiming to grow professionally in Europe or considering a shift in employment, this residence permit offers a viable and advantageous path.
Learn Today:
Glossary of Immigration Terms
- Belgium EU Blue Card
A residence permit for highly qualified non-EU citizens, allowing them to live and work in Belgium under specific employment conditions. -
Minimum Salary Threshold
The minimum annual gross salary that a highly qualified worker must earn to be eligible for the Belgium EU Blue Card, varying by region (e.g., €54,115 in Flanders). -
Public Holidays
Specific days designated by the government as paid holidays. For Belgium Blue Card holders, there are 10 paid public holidays annually with provisions for opting another day if a holiday falls on a weekend. -
Professional Card
A permit required for non-EU citizens who plan to work as self-employed individuals in Belgium, as opposed to the EU Blue Card which is for employed workers. -
One-Stop Shop (OSS)
A streamlined administrative process where employers submit work authorization requests to start the application procedure for obtaining a Belgium EU Blue Card.
This Article In A Nutshell:
The Belgium EU Blue Card is a permit for skilled workers in Belgium, offering benefits like equal treatment, paid leave, insurance, and access to pension plans. High earners can apply, including professionals like engineers and pharmacists. The card lasts 1-3 years, with a €358 fee. Family members can join, and after 18 months, workers can move within the EU.
— By VisaVerge.com
