BELGIUM

Work Permit:

The Belgian government is well aware of the shortage of IT staff in their country. With the number of EU-driven infrastructure projects coming up, the Belgian government is looking at IT professionals more favourably.

The whole process, from lodging the application to collecting the work permits takes anywhere between 4 to 6 weeks.

The main requirement is that the position held should command a salary in excess of BGF 8200 per month, if paid in Belgium. If you are earning in Belgium francs any where else, then the amount should be BGF 140,000. According to the law, work permit can be issued to a Non-EU profesional only if the applicant possess skill and expertise that are not available in the Belagian market. In addtion, your company should be able to justify your qualifications and experience with the positon being offered to you. If the application is an assignment permit, you have to show a work experience of 6 months minimum.

A Belgian work permit is employer specific. Working for another company without applying for a separate work permit is considered illegal.

Indian Embassies in Belgium: Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent

Important numbers:

• Ambulance 100
• Fire department 100
• Police 101
• Urgent International calls 112

Maps:

• Belgium
• Belgium, metro route
• Map of Belgian railways
• Downtown Brussel
• Brussel street map

Little India: Indian restaurant • Indian grocery shop • places of worship/ Indian association • Banks