One of the largest barriers to attracting international recruits to an area can be regulations and restrictions on employment. If an area makes itself harder to work in than its neighbours, then employers will struggle to bring in the best talent.
That has, unfortunately, been the case for the Belgian region of Wallonia for some time. As other regions of the country have kept up to date with EU regulations, Wallonia has stuck to more restrictive and limiting laws around work permits.
Thankfully, this has now been amended, with the changes taking effect from the 2nd of September 2024. But, before we talk about the new rules, lets take a look at the region itself first!
'As of the 2nd of September 2024, the term which a short stay work permit works for is 90 days out of 180. By changing this definition, the points at which an expat needs to apply for either a B work permit or single permit are simplified.'
What do you need to know about Wallonia?
Wallonia is the French speaking, southern region of Belgium. With a population of just under 3.7 million people, the region covers some 16.901 km2. There are many impressive cities in the region, including Liège, Mons and the capital of Namur.
The Walloon region is one of three federal states which make up Belgium, and so has its own, government, parliament and president. As you’d expect, Wallonia has a rich culture of food and drink, some highlights include the Liège waffle, Ardennes ham, and three of the seven Trappist beers.
What changes have been made?
Historically Wallonia was not in line with the EU rules, with more limitations and restrictions on expats applying for a work permit. By bringing becoming compliant with EU Directives, the region has made it substantially easier for expats to successfully apply for a work permit.
Expats will be used to minimum salary requirements to receive a work permit. However, Wallonia has reduced the minimum salary for younger people and recent graduates.
For highly skilled worked, under the age of 30, the minimum salary to apply for a work permit has dropped to €40.248 per year, or €2.891,38 per month.
Equally, highly educated workers from outside the EU who wish to apply for the European Blue Card residence permit have seen their salary requirements drop. If their qualification is less than 3 years old, then the salary requirement has dropped to €40.248 per year, or €2.891,38 per month.
The process for renewal has also been streamlined, with work authorisation being automatically granted after 30-days and provisional authorisation to work if the application is submitted on time.
All in all, these changes will aid in attracting the highest standard of works to Wallonia. Encouraging more of the brightest and best into the region, boosting both local businesses and the local economy.
If you’re considering a move to the region for work, then our ABRA members can help with completing your application, finding you somewhere to stay and settling into your new home. You can find our members here.
Our thanks to the team at the Expat Management Group for their help with this article.
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