International mobility - limited access to the Belgian labour market

Bulgarian and Romanian workers still need a work permit until 31 December 2013.

On the basis of a proposal of the Minister of Work Monica De Coninck, the Federal Council of Ministers has decided to extend the transition period for the employment of Bulgarian and Romanian workers for a last time until 31 December 2013. Until that date, access to the Belgian labour market is limited, and Bulgarian and Romanian workers will still need a work permit to be allowed to work in Belgium. They can, however, apply for a work permit for recognised so-called "highly demanded positions", which can be granted within five working days, following a simplified procedure.

This decision to postpone the opening of the borders to Bulgarian and Romanian workers is in line with what Belgium's neighbouring states have also decided.