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Blue card Belgium

Belgium, renowned for its robust economy and high quality of life, stands out as a prime destination for talented professionals from non-EU countries. One of the pivotal tools in attracting this skilled workforce is the Blue Card programme, designed specifically for highly qualified workers. In this article, we’ll explore the essentials of obtaining a Blue Card in Belgium, detailing the requirements and the myriad opportunities it presents to its holders.

What is the Blue Card in Belgium?

The Belgian Blue Card is a coveted work and residence permit tailored for highly qualified individuals from outside the European Union. This card not only allows you to work in Belgium but also provides the flexibility to work in other EU nations, adhering to specific conditions. Developed as part of a comprehensive European initiative, the Blue Card aims to attract global talent and foster economic growth within the EU.

Basic Requirements for Obtaining a Blue Card in Belgium

To successfully apply for a Blue Card in Belgium, candidates must meet several key requirements:

1. Higher Education

A university degree is paramount. Candidates must possess an internationally recognized bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree. Importantly, the educational qualifications should align with the requirements of the job for which the application is being made.

2. Employment Contract

A job offer from a Belgian employer is essential. The employment contract must meet specific criteria:

  • Minimum Income: As of 2021, the minimum annual gross income for obtaining a Blue Card in Belgium is €55,431. This figure is reviewed annually and may be subject to change.
  • Qualifications: The job must correspond to the candidate’s qualifications and expertise. Employers are required to affirm that the candidate possesses the necessary skills to perform the job effectively.

3. Health Insurance and Financial Solvency

Candidates must have health insurance that is valid in Belgium and covers essential risks. Additionally, proof of sufficient financial resources to support oneself and any family members planning to join them is necessary.

4. Certificate of No Criminal Record

A criminal record certificate from the candidate’s home country is required to demonstrate the absence of any criminal convictions. This stipulation is crucial for maintaining public order and security in Belgium.

Advantages of Obtaining a Blue Card in Belgium

The benefits of holding a Blue Card are numerous, including:

1. Right to Work and Reside

Blue Card holders enjoy the legal right to live and work in Belgium for the duration of their card’s validity, paving the way for career advancement in one of Europe’s most stable economies.

2. Family Reunification

Blue Card holders can bring their spouses and children to Belgium. Spouses are also granted the right to work, easing the family’s integration into Belgian society.

3. Pathway to Permanent Residence

After five years of continuous residence and employment in Belgium, Blue Card holders are eligible to apply for permanent residency. This status provides additional rights and safeguards against changes in immigration legislation.

4. Freedom of Movement Within the EU

The Blue Card enables holders to travel freely across Schengen countries without needing additional visas. This benefit simplifies business travel and leisure trips within Europe.

Blue Card Application Process

Navigating the Blue Card application process involves several steps:

Preparation of Documents
Diplomas, employment contract, criminal record certificate, health insurance and proof of resources.
01
Submitting an Application
This first step is critical. It is about gathering information: quantitative information and qualitative insights.
02
Application
Review
The authorities will assess the application. This can take weeks or months.
03

Receiving Your Blue Card

Upon approval of the application, candidates will receive their Blue Card, granting them the legal right to reside and work in Belgium.

The Blue Card in Belgium opens the door to a wealth of opportunities for highly skilled professionals seeking to establish a successful career in one of Europe’s most developed nations. With careful preparation and adherence to the requirements, you can embark on a transformative journey, enjoying the right to work, live, and reunite with family, all while exploring the freedoms that come with being a part of the EU. Whether you’re aiming for career growth or a stable life in Belgium, the Blue Card could be your gateway to success.

Who Can Apply for a Blue Card for Belgium?

Belgium, recognized as one of Europe’s most developed economies, actively seeks to attract highly qualified specialists from non-EU countries. The Blue Card programme serves as a vital tool in this effort, allowing holders to legally work and reside in Belgium while gaining access to an array of professional and social opportunities. Below, we explore the main categories of applicants eligible for a Blue Card in Belgium and the specific requirements necessary for a successful application.

Main Categories of Applicants for a Blue Card in Belgium

Category Description Requirements
Highly Qualified Specialists Professionals with an internationally recognized degree.
  • Degree must be recognized in Belgium (nostrification may be required).
  • Education relevant to the profession.
Specialists in Scarce Professions Professionals in high-demand fields like IT, engineering, and medicine.
  • Relaxed minimum income requirements.
  • Work experience may be considered as an additional criterion.
Candidates with Confirmed Job Offers Individuals who have secured employment with a Belgian employer.
  • Annual income must exceed the minimum threshold (€55,431 in 2021).
  • Job must be relevant to the candidate’s qualifications.
Participants in International Projects Professionals engaged in international research or projects.
  • Employment contract with recognized research institutions or universities.
  • Opportunity to work in leading academic centers in Belgium.
Specialists with Experience in Belgium Individuals who have previously worked in Belgium under another visa category.
  • Previous work experience and successful integration into local society.
  • A new employment contract that meets Blue Card requirements.

These categories highlight the diverse pathways available for skilled professionals seeking to obtain a Blue Card in Belgium. Each group has its unique requirements, ensuring that the most qualified candidates can seamlessly transition to a fulfilling career and life in Belgium.

Application process

The process of applying for a Blue Card in Belgium involves several key steps:

1. Preparation of documents

Before applying, the candidate must collect all the necessary documents including:

A recognised degree in higher education.
Confirmation of an employment contract with a Belgian employer.
A certificate of no criminal record from the country of residence.
Proof of health insurance.
Evidence of financial solvency.

2. Submitting an application

The application for a Blue Card is submitted to the Belgian migration authorities or to the Belgian consulate/embassy in the candidate’s country of residence. It is important to complete all documents and the application form correctly to avoid delays in processing the application.

3. Consideration of the application

Migration authorities review the application and verify that all conditions are met. The review process can take from several weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the case and the workload of the agency.

4. Getting a Blue Card

Once the application is approved, the candidate receives a Blue Card, which allows him/her to legally reside and work in Belgium.

The Blue Card in Belgium offers a wide range of opportunities for highly qualified professionals from non-EU countries. Successful application requires meeting a number of requirements, including higher education, a labour contract and work experience. Professionals in scarce professions and those involved in international projects may benefit from additional advantages when applying. The Blue Card opens up access to prestigious jobs, social guarantees and opportunities for further career development in Belgium and other European Union countries.

Belgium blue card requirements

The Blue Card Belgium is a prestigious residence permit that grants highly qualified professionals from countries outside the European Union the right to work and reside in Belgium. This programme is designed to attract talented professionals to Belgium who can contribute to the development of the economy and technology. This article details the basic requirements for obtaining a Blue Card in Belgium, as well as the necessary steps to successfully complete the application process.

Basic Requirements for Obtaining a Blue Card in Belgium

Requirement Description Features/Conditions
Higher Education Candidates must possess an internationally recognized bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree relevant to the job.
  • Diploma Recognition: A diploma obtained outside the EU must be recognized in Belgium, possibly requiring nostrification.
  • Relevance of Qualifications: The education must relate to the profession planned in Belgium.
Labour Contract with a Belgian Employer A confirmed employment contract with a Belgian employer is essential.
  • Minimum Income Level: As of 2021, the annual gross income must exceed €55,431, subject to annual review.
  • Contract Duration: The employment contract must be for at least one year.
  • Qualifications: The job must match the candidate’s qualifications and background.
Health Insurance Candidates must have health insurance that covers major risks in Belgium. Health insurance is mandatory for social protection and security.
Financial Solvency Candidates must demonstrate sufficient financial means to support themselves and any accompanying family members. Includes costs for accommodation, food, and other necessities.
Certificate of No Criminal Record A criminal record certificate from the candidate’s home country is required to confirm the absence of convictions. This requirement ensures public safety and order in Belgium.
Language Skills (Recommended) Proficiency in at least one of Belgium’s official languages (French, Dutch, or German) is beneficial. Language skills can aid integration and may improve the application process.

Application process

1. Preparation of documents

Before applying for a Blue Card, the applicant must collect and prepare all the necessary documents. This includes a high school diploma, employment contract, criminal record certificate, health insurance and proof of financial solvency.

2. Submitting an application

The application for a Blue Card is submitted to the local Belgian migration office or to the Belgian consulate/embassy in the applicant’s country of residence. It is important that all documents are correctly completed and certified in order to avoid delays in the application process.

3. Consideration of the application

The Belgian migration authorities review the application and check that all conditions are fulfilled. The process can take from a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the case and the workload of the office.

4. Getting a Blue Card

Once the application is approved, the candidate receives a Blue Card, which allows him/her to legally reside and work in Belgium.

Obtaining a Blue Card in Belgium requires careful preparation and fulfilment of a number of strict requirements. A university degree, an employment contract with an appropriate level of income, health insurance and financial solvency are all prerequisites for successfully obtaining a Blue Card. By fulfilling these requirements and completing the application process, you will have access to the many opportunities that living and working in Belgium, one of the leading countries in the European Union, offers.

How do I get the blue card in Belgium?

The Blue Card in Belgium is an important tool that allows highly qualified professionals from outside the European Union to legally work and reside in Belgium. This residence permit provides access to many opportunities, from prestigious jobs to stable residence in one of the most developed countries in Europe. In this article, we will look at the step-by-step process of obtaining a Blue Card in Belgium, as well as the key requirements that need to be fulfilled to successfully obtain this card.

Main steps in obtaining a Blue Card in Belgium

Step 1: Assess compliance with requirements

Before you begin the application process, you need to make sure you meet all the eligibility requirements for a Blue Card. Key criteria include:

  • Higher education: Bachelor’s, Master’s or Doctoral degree, internationally recognised and relevant to the qualifications required for the job.
  • Labour contract: Having a job offer from a Belgian employer with an annual income exceeding a set minimum. In 2021, this minimum is €55,431.

Step 2: Recognition of the diploma

If your diploma was obtained outside the European Union, it is important to make sure that it is recognised in Belgium. This may require you to undergo the nostrification process, which is the official recognition of a foreign diploma. This process is necessary to confirm that your education meets the standards set in Belgium.

Step 3: Preparing the necessary documents

To apply for a Blue Card, you will need to collect and prepare the following documents:

  • A recognised degree in higher education.
  • Employment contract with a Belgian employer, confirming the level of income and working conditions.
  • A criminal record certificate from your country of residence, confirming that you have no criminal records.
  • Proof of health insurance that covers the main risks in Belgium.
  • Documents proving that you and your family have sufficient financial means to live (if applicable).
  • Biometric photographs and a completed residence permit application form.

Step 4: Submitting an application

The Blue Card can be applied for from outside Belgium or within Belgium:

  1. Applying outside Belgium: If you are outside Belgium, you must apply at the Belgian consulate or embassy in your country. Here you will also receive a national visa that will allow you to enter Belgium to apply for a Blue Card.
  2. Applying within Belgium: If you are already in Belgium legally (e.g. on a D visa), you can apply for a Blue Card directly at the local migration office.

Step 5: Consideration of the application

Once your application has been submitted, the Belgian migration authorities will start the processing of your application. The processing time can vary from a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of your case and the workload of the authorities. At this stage, the authorities may request additional documents or clarifications.

Step 6: Obtaining a Blue Card

Once your application has been successfully processed, you will receive a Blue Card. This card is usually valid for up to two years and can be renewed. The Blue Card entitles you to reside and work legally in Belgium, as well as access to a number of social services and programmes.

Step 7: Renew your Blue Card

When your Blue Card is about to expire, you can apply for an extension. To do so, you must continue to meet all requirements, including having a valid employment contract, health insurance and sufficient funds.

Obtaining a Blue Card in Belgium is a process that requires careful preparation and compliance with all established procedures. From the correct paperwork to applying to the migration authorities, every step is crucial to successfully obtaining this important document. The Blue Card offers you and your family great opportunities for professional growth and comfortable living in Belgium, providing access to one of the most stable economies in Europe. By following every step of the process, you can maximise the benefits of the Blue Card in Belgium.

How much do I have to earn to qualify for a blue card in Belgium?

The Blue Card programme in Belgium is an important tool for attracting highly qualified professionals from outside the European Union. One of the key requirements to qualify for this card is to fulfil the minimum income requirements. In this article we will look at what income is required to qualify for a Blue Card in Belgium and why this requirement is crucial.

Minimum income level for Blue Card in Belgium

1. general income threshold

One of the main requirements for obtaining a Blue Card in Belgium is to have a job offer with an annual income that meets the minimum threshold set by Belgian law. This threshold is reviewed annually and may vary depending on economic conditions.

In 2021, the minimum income threshold is 55,431 euros per year gross. This means that your employment contract must provide for an annual income of at least this amount in order to receive a Blue Card.

2. Specialists in scarce professions

For professionals working in scarce occupations, the minimum income level may be slightly lowered. These occupations include fields such as information technology, engineering, medicine and scientific research. Specific amounts and conditions may vary depending on the region and the economic situation in the country.

Specifics for scarce occupations:

  • The possibility of lowering the income threshold for professionals working in areas of high demand for skilled labour.
  • Consideration of work experience and additional qualifications when assessing income eligibility.

Why is the minimum income threshold important?

1. Guarantee of economic self-sufficiency

The minimum income threshold is set to ensure that Blue Card holders can support themselves and their families without having to rely on social programmes and state support. This condition also takes into account the high standard of living in Belgium, where the costs of housing, food and other basic needs can be quite high.

2. Compliance with labour market requirements

The minimum income level is also linked to the aim of attracting highly qualified people to Belgium who can make a significant contribution to the country’s economy. This requirement helps to ensure that foreign professionals are placed in positions that require high qualifications and offer appropriate compensation.

3. Social protection and well-being

A high level of income allows the Blue Card holder to benefit from a wide range of social services, such as medical care, pension and education. This creates the conditions for a stable and comfortable residence in Belgium, both for the professional and for his/her family.

How is income calculated?

1. Gross income

The minimum income threshold for a Blue Card in Belgium is calculated on the basis of annual gross income. This means that the amount is stated before taxes and other mandatory payments are deducted. All regular income such as basic salary, bonuses, bonuses, bonuses and other payments that are specified in the employment contract can be included in the calculation.

2. Compliance with requirements

When applying for a Blue Card, it is important that the employment contract meets the income requirements. In case of non-compliance, the migration authorities may refuse to issue the card, even if all other conditions are met.

The minimum income level is one of the key factors when applying for a Blue Card in Belgium. This threshold is set to ensure the economic self-sufficiency and stability of the cardholder and to attract highly qualified professionals who can make a significant contribution to the country’s economy. Meeting the income requirement not only guarantees the Blue Card, but also opens the door to a wide range of opportunities for professional and personal growth in one of the most prosperous countries in Europe.

What opportunities does the blue card offer in Belgium?

The Blue Card in Belgium is not just a work and residence permit, it is a tool that opens up a wide range of opportunities for career development, social well-being and integration into the European community for highly qualified professionals from countries outside the European Union. In this article we will look at the benefits and opportunities offered by the Blue Card in Belgium and how its holders can maximise the use of this document to achieve their goals.

The main opportunities offered by the Blue Card in Belgium are as follows

1. Access to highly skilled and prestigious positions

The Blue Card in Belgium gives its holders access to highly skilled and well-paid positions in the labour market. Belgium is one of the most economically developed countries in Europe and offers many opportunities for professionals in fields such as information technology, engineering, medicine, finance and research.

Benefits:

  • Opportunity to hold management and key positions in companies operating internationally.
  • Access to jobs with competitive salaries and extensive social packages.
  • Participation in major international projects and the opportunity to co-operate with leading global companies.

2. Right to residence and stability

The Blue Card entitles its holders and their families to legal residence in Belgium. This gives access to one of the highest standards of living in Europe, as well as a stable and safe environment in which to live and work.

Opportunities:

  • The right to reside in Belgium for the duration of the Blue Card, renewable.
  • Access to a high level of health care, education and social protection.
  • Opportunity to integrate into Belgian society and participate in the cultural and social life of the country.

3. Possibility of family reunification

One of the key benefits of the Blue Card is the possibility of family reunification. Card holders can bring their spouses and children to Belgium, giving them the right to legal residence and employment.

Benefits to the family:

  • Spouses of Blue Card holders are entitled to work in Belgium without additional authorisation.
  • Children can access quality education in public and public schools as well as universities.
  • Families can take advantage of all social programmes, including health care and pensions.

4. Pathway to permanent residence and citizenship

Blue Card holders can apply for permanent residency after five years of continuous residence in Belgium. This opens up additional rights and opportunities for long-term residence in the country.

Opportunities:

  • Obtaining permanent resident status, which provides additional rights, including access to certain government jobs and social assistance programmes.
  • The possibility of applying for Belgian citizenship after an appropriate period of residence, which gives access to all the rights and privileges of European Union citizens.

5. Freedom of movement within the EU

The Blue Card in Belgium allows its holders to travel freely throughout the Schengen area. This facilitates business trips, participation in international projects, as well as holidays and getting to know the culture of other European countries.

Benefits:

  • Ability to visit other Schengen countries without the need for additional visas.
  • Participation in international conferences, seminars and business meetings in EU countries.
  • The possibility to live and work in other EU countries after a certain period of residence in Belgium.

6. Access to professional development and training programmes

Belgium offers many programmes for further training and professional development. Blue Card holders can take advantage of these opportunities to broaden their skills and improve their career prospects.

Benefits:

  • Participation in publicly funded or subsidised professional development programmes.
  • Access to educational courses and programmes at universities and specialised training institutions.
  • The opportunity to gain additional qualifications that will make you more competitive in the labour market.

The Blue Card in Belgium offers highly qualified professionals unique opportunities for professional development, stable residence and integration into European society. Card holders can enjoy a wide range of rights and privileges, including access to prestigious jobs, residence and family reunification rights, and freedom of movement within the EU. These advantages make the Blue Card a powerful tool for achieving both personal and professional goals in Belgium and beyond.

Belgium blue card application process

Obtaining a Blue Card in Belgium is an important step for highly qualified professionals from non-European Union countries who want to build a successful career and live in one of the most developed countries in Europe. The process of applying for a Blue Card requires careful preparation and understanding of all the steps to ensure that you successfully obtain this document. In this article, we will look at the step-by-step process of applying for a Blue Card in Belgium and the key aspects to look out for.

Main steps to apply for a Blue Card in Belgium

Step 1: Checking compliance with requirements

Before you begin the application process, it’s important to make sure you meet all the eligibility requirements for a Blue Card. Key criteria include:

  • Higher education: You must have a bachelor’s, master’s or doctoral degree that is internationally recognised and that corresponds to the qualifications required to perform a job in Belgium.
  • Employment contract: You must have a job offer from a Belgian employer with an annual income exceeding a set minimum threshold. In 2021, this threshold is €55,431.

Step 2: Recognition of the diploma

If your diploma was obtained outside the European Union, you may be required to undergo the nostrification process, which is the official recognition of your diploma in Belgium. This process confirms that your education meets Belgian standards, which is a prerequisite for obtaining a Blue Card.

Step 3: Preparing the necessary documents

To apply for a Blue Card, the following documents must be collected and prepared:

  • A recognised degree in higher education.
  • Employment contract with a Belgian employer, confirming the level of income and working conditions.
  • A criminal record certificate from your country of residence, which confirms that you have no criminal records.
  • Proof of health insurance that covers the main risks in Belgium.
  • Documentation that you and your family have sufficient financial means to live, if applicable.
  • Biometric photographs and a completed residence permit application form.

Step 4: Submitting an application

You can apply for a Blue Card in two ways:

  1. Applying outside Belgium: If you are outside Belgium, you can apply at the Belgian consulate or embassy in your country. Here you will receive a D visa, which will allow you to enter Belgium for further Blue Card processing.
  2. Applying within Belgium: If you are already legally resident in Belgium, you can apply directly to the local migration office. In this case, you will need to provide all the necessary documents to prove your qualifications, employment contract and other requirements.

Step 5: Consideration of the application

Once the application has been submitted, the Belgian migration authorities will proceed to process it. This process involves checking all the documents submitted against the requirements. Depending on the complexity of your case and the workload of the migration authorities, the processing time can vary from a few weeks to several months. Additional documents or clarifications may be required at this stage, so it is important to respond promptly to requests from the migration authorities.

Step 6: Obtaining a Blue Card

Once your application has been successfully completed, you will be issued a Blue Card. This card entitles you to reside and work legally in Belgium. The Blue Card is usually valid for one to two years, with the possibility of renewal.

The process of obtaining:

  • Once you have been notified that your Blue Card is ready, you will receive it at the migration office where you applied for it.
  • The card must be obtained in person and you will need to show ID.

Step 7: Renew your Blue Card

When your Blue Card expires, you can apply for an extension. To do so, you must continue to meet all requirements, including having a valid employment contract, health insurance and sufficient funds.

Renewal Process:

  • Apply for an extension at the same migration office.
  • Update all necessary documents, including your employment contract and proof of income.
  • Receive an extended Blue Card once you have completed the verification process.

The process of applying for a Blue Card in Belgium requires careful preparation and compliance with all procedures. Proper paperwork, timely application to the migration authorities and compliance with all requirements will help you to successfully complete the process. The Blue Card offers great opportunities to work and live in Belgium, one of the leading countries in the European Union, and opens the door to long-term career and personal development.

Where can I get Belgium blue card?

Obtaining a Blue Card in Belgium is an important step for highly qualified professionals from countries outside the European Union who want to build a successful career and live in one of the most developed countries in Europe. However, the process of obtaining a Blue Card requires applying to the relevant government authorities and following certain procedures. In this article we will take a closer look at where and how you can obtain a Blue Card in Belgium, as well as what steps you need to take to successfully obtain this document.

The main places to obtain a Blue Card in Belgium

1. Filing an application outside Belgium

If you are outside Belgium and wish to apply for a Blue Card, the first step is to apply for a D visa through the Belgian consulate or embassy in your country. This visa allows you to enter Belgium for further processing of the Blue Card.

Main Actions:

  • Apply for a D visa at the Belgian consulate or embassy in your country.
  • Provide the necessary documents such as a high school diploma, proof of employment contract, health insurance and other documents required for a Blue Card.
  • Obtain a D visa, which will allow you to enter Belgium for further Blue Card processing.

2. Filing an application within Belgium

If you are already in Belgium legally (e.g. on a D visa or other residence permit), you can apply for a Blue Card directly to the local migration office. This may be the Regional Office for Foreigners (Office des Etrangers) or the district administration office (Commune).

Key Steps:

  • Register your place of residence at your local citizenship registration office (Commune). This is a compulsory step that must be completed within eight days of arrival in Belgium.
  • Apply for a Blue Card at your local migration office, providing all necessary documents such as your diploma, employment contract, criminal record, health insurance and proof of financial solvency.
  • Go through the biometric enrolment process, which includes fingerprinting and photography.

3. Consideration of the application

Once your application has been submitted, the Belgian migration authorities begin the processing of your application. The processing time may vary depending on the complexity of your case and the workload of the migration authorities, but usually ranges from a few weeks to a few months.

Review Process:

  • Migration authorities verify the authenticity of all documents submitted and the eligibility requirements for a Blue Card.
  • If necessary, additional documents or clarifications may be requested.

4. Getting a Blue Card

After your application has been successfully processed, you will be issued a Blue Card. This card must be obtained from the same migration office where you submitted your application.

The process of obtaining:

  • You will receive a notification that your Blue Card is ready, after which you will have to go to the migration office to collect it.
  • The card is issued in person to the applicant upon presentation of an identity card.

5. Blue Card renewal

If your Blue Card is about to expire, you can apply for an extension. The renewal process is similar to the initial application, but may include providing updated documents such as employment contract and proof of income.

Basic Steps:

  • Apply for a renewal of your Blue Card at the same immigration office where you received your original card.
  • Provide updated documentation showing compliance with all requirements.
  • Receive an extended Blue Card once you have completed the verification process.

Obtaining a Blue Card in Belgium requires that you apply to the relevant migration authorities and follow the established procedures. Depending on your location, you can apply for a card either through the Belgian consulate abroad or directly to the local migration office in Belgium. It is important to carefully prepare all the necessary documents and follow the established procedures in order to minimise waiting times and successfully obtain a Blue Card. This document offers great opportunities to work and live in Belgium, providing access to one of the most stable and developed economies in Europe.

Belgium blue card processing time

The Blue Card in Belgium is an important tool for highly skilled professionals from outside the European Union who wish to work and reside in this economically developed country. However, the process of obtaining a Blue Card takes time, and understanding how long it takes to process an application is an important aspect of planning your move and starting work in Belgium. In this article, we take a closer look at what factors affect the processing time of a Blue Card application in Belgium and how you can optimise the process.

Main factors affecting the processing time of the application

1. Completeness and correctness of documents

One of the key factors determining the processing time of an application is the completeness and correctness of the submitted documents. Any errors or deficiencies can significantly slow down the process, as the migration services will request additional clarifications or documents.

Recommendations:

  • Check all documents carefully before submitting your application.
  • Make sure that diplomas, employment contract, criminal record certificate and health insurance are properly completed and certified.
  • If necessary, translate the documents into one of the official languages of Belgium (French, Dutch or German) and have them notarised.

2. Employment of migration authorities

The workload of migration services also has a significant impact on the time it takes to process applications. During periods of increased activity, for example, at the beginning of the year or during large-scale changes in migration legislation, the process may take longer.

Recommendations:

  • Plan your application well in advance, especially if you know there will be a period of increased activity.
  • Try to avoid applying during peak periods to minimise delays.

3. Complexity of the case

If your application requires additional checks, for example if your diploma was obtained outside the European Union and requires nostrification, this may also lengthen the processing time. Migration authorities may request additional documents to ensure that all the conditions for obtaining a Blue Card are met.

Recommendations:

  • Make sure that your diploma is recognised in Belgium and, if necessary, go through the nostrification procedure beforehand.
  • Prepare any additional documents that may be required to reduce the time for additional requests from migration authorities.

4. Filing an application outside Belgium

If you are applying for a Blue Card from outside Belgium, the first step is to obtain a D visa through the Belgian consulate or embassy in your country. This step also affects the overall processing time, as it depends on the workload of the consular services and the visa regime in your country.

Recommendations:

  • Start the D visa application process as early as possible.
  • Make sure you have all the necessary documents to apply for a Blue Card as soon as you arrive in Belgium.

Average processing times

On average, it takes between 6 and 12 weeks to process a Blue Card application in Belgium. However, this can vary depending on all of the above factors. In some cases, the process may take several months, especially if additional document verification or nostrification of a diploma is required.

How do I speed up the process of getting a Blue Card?

  1. Careful preparation of documents: Make sure that all documents are collected and properly completed before submitting your application. This will help avoid delays and reduce processing time.
  2. Applying at the right time: Try to apply at times when migration services are less busy to speed up the process.
  3. Prompt response to requests: If migration authorities request additional documents or clarifications, provide them as soon as possible so as not to delay the process.
  4. Use professional services: Consider hiring an immigration consultant or lawyer to help you complete the paperwork and follow the application process.

The processing time for a Blue Card application in Belgium depends on many factors, including the completeness and correctness of the documents, the busyness of the migration authorities and the complexity of the case. On average, the process can take between 6 and 12 weeks, but with proper preparation and planning, you can minimise the waiting time and speed up your Blue Card application. This document opens up a wide range of opportunities to work and live in Belgium, giving you access to one of the most stable and developed economies in Europe.

Changing jobs with a blue card in Belgium

The Blue Card in Belgium is a valuable tool for highly qualified professionals from countries outside the European Union. It grants the right to work and live in the country, opening up many professional opportunities for its holders. However, as in any other country, changing jobs in Belgium requires following certain rules and procedures, especially if you are a Blue Card holder. In this article, we will look at the key aspects of changing jobs with a Blue Card in Belgium, the risks involved and the important steps you need to take to successfully transition to your new position.

Legal aspects of changing jobs with a Blue Card

1. Initial conditions for obtaining a Blue Card

The Blue Card is issued on the basis of a specific employment contract with an employer who must fulfil set requirements, including minimum income and qualifications. It is important to realise that the card is initially linked to this particular employment contract and employer.

2. Changing jobs in the first two years

If you want to change jobs within the first two years of receiving your Blue Card, a special procedure must be followed. During this period, your Blue Card is closely linked to your original employer and any change of employer requires prior approval from the migration authorities.

The process of changing jobs:

  • Notifying the migration authorities: You must notify the Belgian migration authorities of your intention to change jobs before concluding a new employment contract.
  • Submission of a new employment contract: A new employment contract must be submitted to the migration authorities to verify compliance with Blue Card requirements, including minimum income and qualifications.
  • Waiting for approval: Migration authorities check the new employment contract and only after receiving their approval can you start your new job.

3. Change of job after two years

After two years of Blue Card employment in Belgium, you have more flexibility to change employers. Although you are no longer required to obtain prior approval from the migration authorities, you still have to notify them of a change of employment.

Basic Steps:

  • Notification of migration authorities: Although pre-approval is no longer required, you must notify the migration authorities of a change of employer.
  • Eligibility Requirements: A new employment contract must meet minimum income and qualification requirements to maintain your Blue Card status.

4. Risks and consequences of non-compliance

Failure to comply with the regulations may result in the cancellation of your Blue Card. If you change jobs without notifying the migration authorities or if the new employment contract does not meet the requirements, your Blue Card may be cancelled, resulting in the loss of your right to work and reside in Belgium.

The process of changing jobs

1. Finding a new employer

Before you start the process of changing jobs, make sure that the new employment contract meets all the requirements for a Blue Card. The contract must provide for a minimum level of income and meet your qualifications.

Recommendations:

  • Check that the new employment contract meets the minimum income requirements for the Blue Card.
  • Make sure the new position matches your qualifications and education level.

2. Notification of migration authorities

Once you have received a new job offer, you must notify the migration authorities of your impending change of employer. This is important to maintain your status in Belgium and to ensure that your stay is legal.

Basic Steps:

  • Submit the new employment contract to the migration authorities for verification.
  • Wait until you receive confirmation that your new employment contract is Blue Card compliant.

3. Awaiting confirmation (for the first two years)

In the first two years of Blue Card employment, a change of employer requires the approval of the migration authorities. This may take some time, so it is important to take this aspect into account when planning the transition to a new job.

Recommendations:

  • Prepare for possible delays in the approval process.
  • Continue working at your current job until you receive formal approval for the transition.

4. Starting a new job in a new position

After receiving confirmation from the migration authorities, you can start working in your new position. It is important to make sure that all documents are in order to avoid problems in the future.

Recommendations:

  • Ensure that the new employment contract is registered with the relevant authorities.
  • Keep in touch with the migration authorities for any necessary clarifications or documents.

Changing jobs with a Blue Card in Belgium is possible, but requires compliance with certain rules and procedures, especially in the first two years after obtaining the card. It is important to notify the migration authorities of a change of employer and to ensure that the new employment contract is compliant. This will help you retain your right to work and live in Belgium and continue to build your career in one of the most developed countries in Europe. Following these rules will give you stability and security when you change jobs and allow you to make the most of the opportunities offered by the Blue Card.

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