Belgium is one of the most international IT job markets in Europe. The procedure for working here depends on your nationality and the structure you choose.
EU citizens
EU, EEA and Swiss citizens benefit from free movement. You can start working in Belgium immediately and only need to register your residency at the municipality within 90 days.
Non EU work permit
Non EU citizens need a single permit (work and residence combined). Processing takes 4 to 16 weeks depending on the region (Brussels, Flanders or Wallonia) and the profile s match with the local shortage occupation lists. IT profiles are often on those lists.
2026 inbound taxpayer regime
- Salary threshold lowered to €70,000 gross per year
- Tax free allowance increased to 35% of gross compensation
- Annual cap on the allowance removed
- Application window: 3 months from start of employment
Note: the 3 month deadline runs from your first day of employment in Belgium , not from your arrival date. The SPF Finances then has 3 months to approve the request.
Why this matters
Why umbrella payroll fits foreign consultants
- No need to set up a Belgian company
- Immediate start on the first mission
- BSH handles ONSS, payslips, IPP withholding and tax filings
- Employer of record status helps with the work permit and impatriate application