Belgium: Work and Residence Authorization Processing Timelines

Key Points  

• Belgium introduced new estimates for work and residence authorization processing times due to an increase in application submissions    

Overview  

The government of Belgium is currently experiencing a large influx of immigration and work authorization applications. According to the most recent reports on 3 January 2023, the application timelines based on work authorization type are as follows: 

• First applications: highly skilled/supervisors' category: 6 weeks 
• First applications: shortage professions category: 10 weeks 
• First applications: category other: 8 weeks 
• First applications: all other categories: 7 weeks 

For information on current renewal timelines, check here.  

What are the Changes?  

The Belgian government introduced new estimated processing timelines for work and residence authorization types. Specifically, in the region of Flanders, the government has advised foreign nationals to be aware of longer processing timelines.  

Looking Ahead 

Continue to check the government of Belgium’s website and Envoy’s website for the latest updates and information.