Who's exempt
If you were already living and working in Belgium (or working there as a frontier worker) before 31 December 2020, you're covered by the Withdrawal Agreement and hold, or should hold, an M-card or N-card — these let you work without a separate permit, the same as before Brexit (Ius Laboris).
Everyone else: third-country national rules apply
If you're moving to Belgium for a new job now, you're treated the same as someone relocating from the US or Canada — free movement doesn't apply. What you need depends on how you'll be working (Tax Patria).
Employees: the Single Permit
For a job lasting more than 90 days, your employer applies for a Single Permit — a combined work-and-residence authorisation covering both aspects in one procedure. It's tied to that specific employer and role, so if you change jobs later, your new employer needs to apply for a fresh Single Permit for you (Commissioner Brussels).
Short assignments of up to 90 days use a simpler Work Permit B instead of the full Single Permit process (Ius Laboris).
Self-employed: the professional card
If you're setting up as self-employed or freelance rather than joining an employer, you need a professional card instead of a Single Permit — a separate authorisation specifically for independent professional activity in Belgium (Brussels Economy & Employment).
How long it takes
Budget for a genuinely lengthy process — Single Permit applications can take up to four months, and approval isn't guaranteed, so this needs to start well before your intended start date rather than after you've already agreed one (VOW).
What this means for your move
If a Belgian employer has offered you a role, ask early who's handling the Single Permit application and when it needs to be lodged — the permit timeline, not the job offer itself, is usually what determines your realistic start date.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a work permit if I already lived in Belgium before Brexit?
No — if you were living and working in Belgium (or as a frontier worker) before 31 December 2020, the Withdrawal Agreement protects your right to work under an M-card or N-card without a separate permit.
Who applies for the Single Permit, me or my employer?
Your Belgian employer applies for the Single Permit on your behalf. It's tied to that employer and role, so changing jobs later requires your new employer to submit a fresh application.
How long does a Single Permit application take?
Up to four months in some cases, and approval isn't guaranteed — start the process as early as possible relative to your intended start date.
Not sure how this applies to your move?
Most people start with a quick Zoom or WhatsApp call to talk through their specific situation and timeline — no need to have it all figured out first.
Sources: Ius Laboris, Tax Patria, Commissioner Brussels, Brussels Economy & Employment, VOW