Belgium Moves Short-Work Permit Applications Online From May 2026

Belgium will change how employers submit short-term work permit and commuter permit applications. From May 1, 2026, applicants must use the government’s online platform. Authorities will no longer accept email submissions, except during a temporary transition period in one region.

The move is part of a wider effort to simplify processing and avoid delays caused by lost emails or incomplete submissions.

Understanding Short Work Permit

A short work permit allows foreign professionals to work temporarily in Belgium for limited assignments without a long-term work visa.

• Valid for short assignments
• Usually up to 90 days
• Employer-sponsored
• For meetings, projects, repairs, and training
• Required for non-EU workers

Applications Shift to Digital Platform

Starting from May 2026, employers and authorised representatives must submit short-term work permit and commuter permit applications using Belgium’s official digital government portal.

Until now, most applications were sent by email to the relevant regional authorities. That option will soon be phased out as the country pushes for a more structured and traceable process.

The online system is expected to help authorities track applications more efficiently and identify missing documents faster. It should also reduce confusion around submission dates and lost email records.

Applicants can access the platform via the Social Security Belgium Portal.

Temporary Email Option in Wallonia Until August 2026

Employers applying in the Walloon region will still be able to submit applications by email during a transition period that runs until August 31, 2026.

For the other two regions, Flanders and Brussels, authorities have not yet confirmed whether a similar transition period will apply. Employers planning applications in these regions should prepare for a fully digital process from May.

Also Read: Belgium Updates Its Shortage Occupation Lists in Wallonia and Flanders

Employers Must Prepare for Digital Access in Advance

Companies or their authorised agents must ensure they have valid digital credentials to use the government platform. Setting up access permissions and mandates may take time, so early preparation is recommended.

The shift means employers will need to adapt internal processes, especially if they previously relied on email submissions.

Why Belgium Is Moving Applications Online

Belgium’s move reflects a broader trend across Europe to digitise immigration and work authorisation systems. Online filing helps authorities:

• Track applications more accurately
• Spot missing information faster
• Reduce paperwork errors
• Avoid lost or delayed emails
• Provide clearer submission timelines

For employers hiring foreign workers on short assignments, the new system aims to make the process more predictable.

Key Takeaways for Employers

• From May 1, 2026, applications must be submitted online
• Email submissions will generally no longer be accepted
• Wallonia allows email applications until August 31, 2026
• Transition rules for Flanders and Brussels are still unclear
• Employers should arrange digital access credentials early

As Belgium continues modernising its immigration systems, digital filing is becoming the standard. Employers who prepare early should face fewer disruptions once the new rules take effect.