Belgium is part of the European Union (EU) and offers the EU Blue Card, a residence and work permit designed for highly skilled non-EU workers. If you already hold an EU Blue Card issued by another EU country, you may be wondering whether you need a separate Belgium work permit to start working here.
At WorkPermitCheck.com, we simplify these rules so both workers and employers can stay compliant and avoid immigration hurdles.
Understanding the EU Blue Card
The EU Blue Card allows highly qualified non-EU citizens to:
• Live and work in an EU country.
• Enjoy certain rights, such as family reunification and mobility within the EU.
• Apply for long-term EU residence after meeting eligibility criteria.
However, each EU country manages its own Blue Card system, including rules for entry and employment.
Belgium’s Rules for EU Blue Card Holders
If you hold an EU Blue Card from another EU country, you cannot work in Belgium automatically. Belgium requires you to:
• Apply for a Belgian EU Blue Card if you plan to live and work in Belgium.
• Meet Belgium’s specific salary and qualification criteria for the Blue Card.
• Obtain approval from Belgian immigration authorities before starting work.
In other words, a separate Belgian work permit is not needed once you have the Belgian EU Blue Card, but you must convert or reapply if you move from another EU country.
Why Reapplication is Necessary
Each EU member state sets its own:
• Salary thresholds
• Educational requirements
• Application procedures
This means the Blue Card issued by one EU country is not automatically valid in another for employment purposes.
How WorkPermitCheck.com Helps
Navigating Blue Card and work permit requirements can be complex. At WorkPermitCheck.com, we:
• Guide you through Belgium’s Blue Card application process.
• Help employers verify compliance before hiring.
• Provide updates on eligibility, documentation, and processing times.
Our goal is to make the transition to working in Belgium smooth and legally compliant.
Sources
• Belgium Immigration Office
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Immigration regulations may change, and requirements may vary by region. Always verify details with official Belgian authorities or professional services such as WorkPermitCheck.com before making any application.