Self-employment / Freelance in Belgium
One documented route of this kind in Belgium, with its conditions, documents, official government fees and process.
Professional Card (Self-Employed / Independent Activity)
Third-country nationals who want to carry out a self-employed/independent professional activity in Belgium need a professional card, issued by the competent Region, in addition to a residence authorisation.
- Processing time
- Several weeks to a few months depending on the Region
- Validity
- Up to 5 years depending on the Region; renewable
- Language requirement
- None for the permit
- Permanent residence
- Eligible for long-term residence after 5 years of legal residence
- Citizenship
- Nationality by declaration after 5 years of legal residence
Requirements
- Viable business/economic plan demonstrating value to Belgium
- Professional card issued by the competent Region (Flanders, Wallonia, or Brussels)
- Proof of relevant qualifications/experience and sufficient resources
- Residence authorisation (type D visa) in parallel
- Registration with a social insurance fund for the self-employed
Required Documents
- Valid passport required
- Business plan / economic project documentation required
- Proof of qualifications and relevant experience required
- Proof of sufficient financial means required
Official fees
- Professional card issuance fee (varies by Region) 242 EUR
Process Steps
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1
Prepare business case
Develop a business plan and gather proof of qualifications and financial viability.
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2
Apply for the professional card
Submit the professional card application to the competent Region (or via the Belgian diplomatic post if abroad).
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3
Obtain residence authorisation and register
Obtain the type D visa, enter Belgium, register at the commune, and complete self-employed social-security registration.