Single Permit

The Single Permit is a combined work and residence permit for non-EU nationals who wish to work in Belgium for more than 90 days. It integrates the work permit and residence permit into a single document, streamlining the application process. The employer must first submit a work permit application to the regional employment service. Once approved, the applicant applies for a long-stay visa at the Belgian embassy or consulate in their home country. After arriving in Belgium, the applicant must register with the local municipality within a specified period to receive the official residence card. The permit is typically valid for the duration of the employment contract and is renewable.

• Valid employment contract with a Belgian employer.
• Employer must demonstrate that the position cannot be filled by a Belgian or EU citizen (labor market test).
• Applicant must possess the necessary education, skills, or experience for the job.
• Employer must comply with Belgian labor laws, including wage standards and working conditions.
• Applicant must not have a record that poses a threat to public order.

1. The employer submits a work permit application to the employment service of the relevant region (Flanders, Wallonia, or Brussels).
2. The employment service reviews the application and may request additional documents or conduct a labor market test.
3. Once the work permit is approved, the employer sends the approval notice to the applicant.
4. The applicant applies for a long-stay visa (D visa) at the Belgian embassy or consulate in their home country or country of residence, along with the work permit approval letter.
5. After the visa is granted, the applicant enters Belgium and registers with the local municipality within 8 days.
6. After registration, the applicant receives a temporary residence permit and later the official Single Permit residence card.

• Employers should start the labor market test process early, as it can be time-consuming.
• Ensure the employment contract meets the minimum standards of Belgian labor law.
• Application documents must be translated into French, Dutch, or German, depending on the region.
• Applicants can prepare visa application materials while waiting for the work permit.
• Keep all correspondence between the employer and the employment service.