Skip to content As of 1st January 2026, the Flanders region in Belgium implemented the approved amendments to its Decision of 7 December 2018. Those amendments create substantial changes and limits for hiring non-EU nationals in Flanders.
Key changes
Highly-skilled workers
Employers are now subject to stricter requirements when hiring highly skilled workers. A Single Permit can only be issued if the role requires at least a higher-education degree and is no longer available for positions that do not meet the criteria for highly skilled employment.
Authorities may also request evidence confirming the authenticity of the higher-education diploma.
Medium-skilled workers
In Flanders, medium-skilled non-EU nationals working in sectors facing labor shortages may still qualify for work authorization. However, following the recent changes, the shortage-occupation list has been significantly reduced, with 14 sectors removed and only 6 added.
‘Other’
Employers may alternatively apply under the “Other” work authorization category. This route is available only if:
- The position is included on the annual shortage-occupation list published by VDAB;
- The role requires a qualification at level three or level four (positions requiring level one or two qualifications are excluded); and
- The vacancy has been advertised on both VDAB and EURES for at least nine consecutive weeks within the four months preceding the application.
Application fee
Starting from the second quarter of 2026, applications for work authorization for non-EU nationals will be subject to a government fee (expected to be EUR 250). Employers must provide proof of payment. Failure to do so may result in the authorities disregarding the application without any right to reimbursement.
Grounds for refusal
Authorities may also refuse a work authorization if 80% or more of the employer’s workforce consists of non-EU nationals holding temporary work authorization.
Furthermore, an application may be denied if the employer submitted incorrect, falsified, or unlawful information in a work authorization application within the three years preceding the new application (previously one year).
Impact
It is now more difficult, both in a substantial and administrative manner, for employers in Flanders to hire non-EU nationals. More preparation, precision, and review are required before submitting an application for such a work authorisation to the authorities.
If you need assistance for similar issues, feel free to consult our Global Mobility service page and contact our experts via the dedicated forms.