Belgium is a beautiful country with a rich culture, history, and cuisine. It is also a great destination for non-European citizens who want to work in seasonal jobs that match their skills and interests. The Seasonal Worker Visa is a special type of permit that allows individuals from countries like India, Ghana, Nepal, and more to engage in seasonal employment in Belgium for up to 5 months within a 365-day period.
Whether you want to work in agriculture, hospitality, tourism, or other sectors that need extra workers during peak seasons, this visa can help you achieve your goals. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the Belgium Seasonal Work Permit Process for 2023, breaking down the types of seasonal work allowed, regions where you can work, expected salaries, permit validity, renewal criteria, and the essential requirements to secure your Seasonal Work Visa.
Belgium Seasonal Work Permit Process 2023 Details
Eligible Sectors for Seasonal Work
Belgium offers seasonal work opportunities in three main sectors:
1. Agricultural Sector:
Available across Belgium, providing diverse agricultural experiences. You can work in activities such as planting, harvesting, pruning, or packing of crops.
2. Horticultural Sector:
Limited to Flanders and Wallonia, offering work in stunning landscapes. You can work in activities such as growing, maintaining, or selling flowers, plants, or trees.
3. Catering Sector:
Accessible in Flanders, Wallonia, and the German-speaking Community, providing a range of hospitality experiences. You can work in activities such as cooking, serving, cleaning, or managing in hotels, restaurants, bars, or cafes.
Earnings Expectations
To attract and support seasonal workers, Belgium offers competitive salaries. In 2020, the minimum monthly salary in Belgium was €1593. The hourly wage for seasonal workers varied by sector:
- Agriculture: €9.45
- Horticulture: Ranged from €9.26 to €11.33, depending on the specific sub-sector.
- Hospitality: Varied from €12.1504 to €18.0369 for seasonal workers with one year of experience.
Permit Duration
Seasonal workers can stay in Belgium for up to 150 days within a 365-day period. This flexibility allows you to make the most of your seasonal work experience.
Renewal Criteria
Renewing your seasonal work permit is possible. Start the renewal process at least one month before your current permit expires to ensure uninterrupted employment.
Also Check: France Seasonal Work Visa 2023 – Work in France
Essential Requirements for a Belgium Seasonal Work Visa 2023
To secure a Belgium Seasonal Work Visa, you must fulfill specific requirements:
- Job Offer: Obtain a job offer from a Belgian employer.
- Single Permit Approval: Your employer must apply for a Single Permit, which combines both work permits and authorization to stay.
- Long Stay D Visa: Apply for a Long Stay D Visa to travel to Belgium.
Processing Time
Be aware that processing your Seasonal Work Permit and Visa application can take up to 90 days. Plan your application accordingly to ensure you’re ready for your seasonal work experience.
Cost of the Belgium Seasonal Work Visa
The cost of a seasonal work permit in Belgium is €180, and your employer covers this fee when submitting your visa application to the Belgian Immigration Office.
Navigating the Belgium Seasonal Work Permit Process
Here is how you can start your journey to a Belgium Seasonal Work Permit in 2023:
- Single Permit Application: Your Belgian employer initiates the process by applying for a “Single Permit” for both residence and work authorization in your chosen region, which could be Flanders, Wallonia, Brussels Capital Region, or the German-speaking Community.
- Visa D Application: The Visa D is your key to an extended stay in Belgium. Submit your Single Permit, passport, and visa application to the Belgian Embassy or a VFS center in your home country. Biometric data, including fingerprints and photos, will be collected.
- Residence Permit Card: After your arrival in Belgium, make sure to register at your local municipality within 8 working days. The municipality will issue a residence permit card (A-card).
Required Documents from Your Belgian Employer
Your Belgian employer plays a pivotal role in securing your authorization to work and stay in Belgium. They must provide essential documents, including the work permit application, employment evidence, identity document, employment contract, international passport, proof of sufficient means of subsistence (if required), a clean criminal record, proof of health insurance, and proof of sufficient housing.
External Resources
For additional information and guidance, consult these official websites:
- Belgium European Union Portal for Seasonal Workers
- Belgium Immigration Website for Seasonal Workers
- Belgium Immigration on Single Permit
Job Hunting Websites in Belgium
To kickstart your job search in Belgium, you can explore these job-hunting websites:
Also Check: Germany Work Visa 2023: Requirements, Types, and Steps to Apply
Conclusion
The Belgium Seasonal Work Permit Process for 2023 offers a valuable opportunity for non-European citizens to experience seasonal work in Belgium. With various sectors to choose from, competitive salaries, and a straightforward application process, it’s a great way to gain international work experience and enjoy the beauty and culture of Belgium.
If you are interested in working as a seasonal worker in Belgium, don’t hesitate to apply for a seasonal work permit and visa as soon as possible. You will not only earn money, but also learn new skills, make new friends, and have fun.