Last updated: March 2026 · 8 min read
The Belgian Single Permit (gecombineerde vergunning / permis unique) is the standard combined work and residence permit for non-EU workers in Belgium. Your employer applies for it, and if approved, it covers both your right to work and your right to live in Belgium.
This guide covers everything: the exact documents you need, the step-by-step process, current salary thresholds, costs, and the mistakes that cause rejections.
The Single Permit applies if you are a non-EU/EEA national who has a job offer from a Belgian employer. Your employer initiates the application — you cannot apply yourself. It covers employment contracts of at least 90 days. For highly qualified workers earning above the Blue Card salary threshold, the EU Blue Card may be a better option.
You will need all of the following documents. Missing even one can delay your application by weeks.
Your Belgian employer submits the Single Permit application to the regional authority (Brussels, Flanders, or Wallonia depending on where you'll work). They need your employment contract, qualifications, and supporting documents.
The regional authority checks whether a suitable candidate is available in the Belgian/EU labour market. Shortage occupations are exempt from this test.
The Immigration Office (DVZ/OE) evaluates your right to reside in Belgium based on your documents, criminal record, and health.
Within 120 calendar days of the complete application, a combined decision is issued. If approved, you receive a positive decision letter.
Take the approval letter to the Belgian embassy or consulate in your country. Apply for a Type D long-stay visa. Processing takes 5-15 working days.
Enter Belgium with your D-visa. You now have a limited time to complete the next steps.
This is critical. You must register at your local commune within 8 working days of arrival. Bring your passport, visa, rental contract, and photos. The commune issues an Annexe 15 (temporary registration). A police officer will visit your address to verify residency.
After the police verification (usually 2-4 weeks), you receive your electronic residence card (A card). This is your Single Permit — valid for 1 year, renewable.
These thresholds are indexed annually. Your gross salary on the employment contract must meet or exceed the applicable threshold.
Belgium has three regions that handle Single Permit applications differently:
Brussels-Capital Region: Applications processed by Brussel Economie en Werkgelegenheid. Processing tends to be slightly slower due to volume. The shortage occupation list was expanded in early 2026 to include cybersecurity, data engineering, and AI roles.
Flanders: Processed by the Flemish Department of Work. Generally faster processing. Since 2026, integration courses require A2 Dutch level (up from A1).
Wallonia: Processed by SPW Emploi. French-language integration. Updated professional card fee to EUR 150 in late 2025.
Based on publicly available DVZ statistics, the most common reasons Single Permit applications are rejected include: salary below the threshold, incomplete or expired documents, employer not meeting financial requirements, failure of the labour market test, and previous immigration violations.
MyPermit gives you a personalised checklist, deadline tracking, cost estimator, and commune directory — completely free. No account needed to start.
Get your free checklist →DVZ / Immigration Office: dofi.ibz.be — track application status
Sworn translators: tradu.belgium.be — official Belgian directory
Apostille service: diplomatie.belgium.be/en/services/legalisation
Belgian embassies: diplomatie.belgium.be/en/embassies-consulates
This guide is informational only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration rules change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the DVZ, your Belgian employer, or a licensed immigration lawyer. Last updated March 2026.