Finding a job
How do you find a job? Or how do you start your own business? Find out about all of that here and check out some extra useful resources.
Working for an employer
In order to be able to stay in Belgium based on your job, your future employer will have to apply for a single permit for you. More information about the single permit can be found on the website of the Flemish government.
Setting up your own business
If you want to start your own business, you will need to request a professional card for foreigners. Each region (Flanders, Brussels) has their own procedure. Find more information about each through the links below.
- How to start your own business (federal government page)
- Professional card (Flanders)
- Professional card (Brussels)
Looking for work
VDAB is the official Flemish employment service and can help you with vacancies, training and extra support to find a job in Flanders. You must register as a job seeker as soon as you graduate. VDAB has a useful website with a lot of information available on how to work as a newcomer, registering as a job seeker, current vacancies and job opportunities, and other useful guidance.
During your orientation year, VDAB can help you assess your chances of obtaining a single permit. On their website you will find inspiration and you can also make an appointment for an interview with a specialised counselor. VDAB also has job counselors who specialise in giving advice to highly educated migrants. They can help you if you have obtained a higher education diploma and want to work at the level of that diploma. You will receive practical, tailor-made tips on applying for a job, diploma recognition, learning Dutch, etc. Note that this page is currently only available in Dutch, but they have guidelines available on how to translate these pages.
other useful resources
- Federal Public Service Economy SMEs, Self-Employed and Energy (FPS): information on self-employment in Belgium, much of which is in English.
- Business Belgium: also part of the FPS, has detailed information in English on setting up a business in Belgium.
- Belgian Social Security (Service Public Federal Securite Sociale): FPS social security website.
- Working in Belgium: official Working In Belgium page by the FPS.
- How to start a business in Flanders: page provided by Flanders Trade & Investment.