Starting a career in Belgium: opportunities for unskilled work

Unskilled work in Belgium can be a good opportunity for expats and foreigners looking to gain initial work experience in Europe. The local labor market offers vacancies in industries such as agriculture, manufacturing, and hospitality, providing ample employment opportunities without the need for specialized education. It is important to understand the requirements and specifics of working in Belgium in order to successfully adapt and build a basic career.

Features of unskilled professions

Unskilled jobs in Belgium provide entry into the labour market for those without specific professional skills or a university degree. Such positions often involve physical labour, making them popular with immigrants, temporary workers and young people looking for a way to gain experience. However, while the simplicity of the requirements may be attractive, it is important to consider the specific conditions and prospects that unskilled jobs in this country offer.

Features of work:

• Most often associated with physical labor in areas such as agriculture, manufacturing, warehouse logistics and cleaning.
• May include shift work or weekend work, which is not suitable for everyone, but allows for flexibility in planning your free time.
• Basic knowledge of French or Dutch is required, which helps in communicating with colleagues and employers.

Advantages:

• Availability: These positions are easy to find, especially for people without experience or professional qualifications.
• Fast employment: Unskilled jobs in Belgium are often filled quickly and may not require selection.
• Legal employment opportunities: Many unskilled occupations offer formal employment, which provides access to health insurance and other social benefits.

Flaws:

• Limited career prospects: Without professional skills or training, career advancement opportunities are limited.
• Harsh working conditions: Physical strain and monotonous tasks can lead to rapid burnout.
• Unstable contracts: Often given temporary or seasonal contracts, which can affect financial stability.

Unskilled work in Belgium can be a good start to gain experience and initial income, but it is important to consider all the pros and cons in advance to assess how suitable it is for long-term plans.

Advice:

Try to learn basic words and phrases in local languages to improve your interactions with colleagues and make it easier to adapt.

Where unskilled labor is required

In Belgium, unskilled work is in high demand across various sectors of the economy. People are especially needed to perform physical and routine tasks where qualifications are not key. Industries such as agriculture, logistics, hospitality and manufacturing all have vacancies for applicants with basic skills.

Popular professions:

• Harvesting. Agricultural jobs for seasonal work including harvesting vegetables, fruits and other crops.
• Warehouse worker. Involves packing, sorting and transporting goods; the job is in demand in logistics centers.
• Housekeeper: Cleaning and maintaining order in hotels, motels and residential complexes.
• Production assistant. Work on conveyor and assembly lines, often without special skills.
• Waiter/Dishwasher. Serving customers and helping in the kitchen in restaurants, cafes and bistros.

Working in such positions can offer a stable income and be convenient for those planning to settle in the country. But these professions can be physically demanding and demanding in terms of schedule. Employers value in employees a willingness to learn, stability and punctuality.

Advice:

Carefully review the requirements for a specific position to increase your chances of successful employment.

Basic requirements for applicants

Jobs in Belgium, especially unskilled ones, attract many foreign workers due to the relative ease of finding vacancies. However, to get such a job, find out the requirements and conditions. Different groups of applicants – EU citizens and immigrants from third countries – face different criteria and documentation required for employment. Advice: find out in advance what is required for a successful job search in this country.

Requirements for EU citizens:

• Documents: EU citizens can work in Belgium without the need for a work permit. A valid passport or identity card is sufficient.
• Language skills: Knowledge of one of Belgium’s official languages (Dutch, French or German) is a big plus, although it is not essential for many unskilled jobs.
• Taxes and social contributions. EU citizens must also register with the tax authorities and pay taxes in the same way as local residents.

Requirements for immigrants:

• Work permit. Immigrants need to obtain a work permit, which may depend on the type of contract and profession. This may take time and additional paperwork.
• Documents: Typically you will need a passport, a visa (if required) and possibly a police clearance certificate or medical records.
• Language skills: Although not always necessary, knowledge of one language can significantly increase your chances of successful employment.
• Skills: Unskilled work may require some skills, such as teamwork or physical stamina, depending on the sector.

Understanding the basic requirements for unskilled job seekers in Belgium is the first step to successful employment. Although the criteria for EU citizens and immigrants differ, there are common points to consider. With the right information and preparation, anyone can get a job and successfully adapt to their new country.

Advice:

Knowing at least the basic language of the country significantly increases the chances of successful employment and integration into society.

Working conditions

Unskilled jobs in Belgium are jobs that vary by industry. Many companies offer flexible hours, making these positions attractive to students and temporary workers. However, it is important to understand that working conditions vary by sector and employer, and may include benefits such as overtime pay and social security.

Working conditions:

• Work schedule. Unskilled jobs typically have shift or flexible hours. Workers may work either full-time or part-time.
• Salary. Average salary varies by sector.
• Bonuses. Possible bonuses may include:
  • Payment for overtime hours.
  • Bonuses for good performance.
  • Compensation for transportation costs.
• Social guarantees. Workers are entitled to certain social benefits, such as health insurance and pension contributions.
• Job specifics: Some industries may require physical exertion and work in variable weather conditions, such as agriculture or warehouses.

Unskilled work in Belgium can be a good opportunity for foreigners who are looking for a way to adapt to the local culture and economy. Working conditions may vary depending on the employer, but workers generally receive the necessary rights and benefits. Working in unskilled positions can provide useful experience that can later help in career advancement.

Advice:

To avoid misunderstandings with your employer, always clarify the working conditions and possible bonuses before starting work.

Average salary

Working in Belgium offers many opportunities, including for unskilled workers. In a highly competitive job market, it is important to know what to expect in terms of salary. Unskilled work in Belgium offers competitive salaries. Let’s take a closer look at the average salary for various unskilled jobs to see how beneficial it can be for foreign workers.

Profession	Salary for EU citizens (€)	Salary for immigrants (€)
Cleaner	1,800 – 2,200	1,700 – 2,100
Warehouse worker	1,900 – 2,300	1,800 – 2,200
Agricultural worker	1,800 – 2,400	1,700 – 2,300
Loader	1,850 – 2,250	1,750 – 2,150
Assistant in a restaurant	1,700 – 2,100	1,650 – 2,000
Assembler on a production line	1,900 – 2,400	1,800 – 2,200
Courier	1,800 – 2,200	1,700 – 2,100
Operator on a conveyor belt	1,950 – 2,400	1,850 – 2,250

The average salary for unskilled workers in Belgium varies by sector and level of experience. Immigrants can expect a slightly lower salary compared to EU citizens, but can still earn a decent income. Given the cost of living in the country, such work can be a good start to a career.

Salary levels may also vary by region and employer. It is a good idea to research offers from different companies to find working conditions. Unskilled work in Belgium offers many opportunities, and understanding the labor market will help you choose.

Interesting fact:

Belgium is known for its high wages for unskilled labour compared to other European countries, making it attractive to foreign workers looking to improve their financial situation.

Job search and popular platforms

Finding unskilled work in Belgium can seem like a daunting task, but there are resources that can help you find jobs. As a foreigner, it is important to know which platforms are effective and how to use them correctly. In this article, we will look at popular sites and programs that will help you find work in various industries.

Ways to find a job:

• Indeed
  Website: indeed.be
  One of the most popular job search sites, where you can find many unskilled job postings. It allows you to filter results by location and type of employment.
• LinkedIn
  Website: linkedin.com
  A professional social network where you can not only search for vacancies, but also establish contacts with employers. Creating a profile on LinkedIn increases your chances of getting a job offer.
• Jobat
  Website: jobat.be
  Phone: +32 2 290 30 80 A Belgian website offering vacancies in various fields. The site offers temporary and permanent jobs.
• Select
  Website: selecthr.be
  Phone: +32 2 588 20 00 An employment agency that specialises in recruiting employees for various industries, including agriculture, logistics and manufacturing.
• Vlaamse Overheid
  Website: vlaanderen.be
  Phone: +32 2 553 25 11Official website of the Flemish government, which offers job vacancies and internships, as well as information on the legal aspects of working in the region.
• Accent Jobs
  Website: accentjobs.be
  Phone: +32 3 281 23 00Employment agency, there is a choice of vacancies in various fields, including unskilled positions.
• Randstad
  Website: randstad.be
  Phone: +32 2 475 50 00One of the largest recruiting agencies in the world, offering personnel selection services for various industries.

Finding unskilled work in Belgium can be easier if you use the right resources. Use the platforms mentioned above to find current vacancies and connect with employers. Remember to keep your CV and profile on the platforms up to date to increase your chances of success. Remember that being active in your search is the key to finding a job quickly.

Interesting fact:
According to a study, more than 60% of employers in Belgium prefer candidates who actively search for work through specialized platforms.

Labor legislation

In Belgium, labor laws govern all aspects of the employment relationship, including the rights and obligations of employees and employers. For those considering unskilled work in Belgium, it is important to understand the laws and regulations in place. These laws protect labor rights, ensure minimum working conditions, and cover such issues as working hours, pay, and workplace safety.

Employment laws in Belgium:

• Industrial Relations Act (1965)
  This Act sets out the principles of industrial relations, including rules on dismissal, working hours and working conditions.
• Minimum Wages Act (1975)
  Sets minimum wages for workers, including those engaged in unskilled jobs.
• Equal Employment Conditions Act (2007)
  Ensures equal working conditions for all workers, regardless of their nationality or status.
• Workers Protection Act (2001)
  Covers workplace safety issues and provides protection to workers from unsafe conditions.
• Social Security Act (1974)
  Regulates workers’ rights to social benefits, including unemployment benefits and health insurance.

Knowledge of labour laws is a key aspect for successful work in Belgium, especially in the unskilled sector. It is important to follow changes in the law to stay informed about your rights and obligations. This will help you avoid problems and take your interests into account.

Advice:

Before you start working in Belgium, familiarise yourself with the main labour laws to ensure you have the right to do so.

Employment Procedure for Immigrants and EU Citizens

Working in Belgium is convenient for foreigners and EU citizens, but the registration process may depend on the status of the applicant. Unskilled work in Belgium is knowledge of the rules and standards to ensure legal employment. It is important to understand what documents and permits are required for different categories of workers.

For immigrants.

1. Obtaining a work permit. It is necessary to obtain a permit from the local authorities, which confirms the right to employment.
2. Application for a residence permit. Immigrants need to apply for a visa or a residence permit depending on their country of origin.
3. Collection of necessary documents. These may include a passport, photographs, diplomas and other supporting documents.
4. Registration with public services. Upon arrival, you must register with the local administration to gain access to social services.

For EU citizens:

1. Free movement. EU citizens have the right to work in Belgium without the need for a work permit.
2. Registration with local authorities. They must register with the local administration to obtain an identification number.
3. Preparing a resume and supporting documents. It is important to prepare a quality resume and a corresponding cover letter.
4. Job Search Through Platforms: Citizens can use various online platforms to search for job openings, such as Indeed and LinkedIn.

The employment process depends on the status of the worker. EU citizens have more freedom than immigrants, but both types of job seekers must comply with local laws and requirements. Preparing all the necessary documents and registering with the authorities are key steps to successful employment.

Interesting fact:

Belgium attracts workers from all over the world due to its multicultural environment and diverse employment opportunities.

Outlook for 2025

In 2025, the Belgian labour market is expected to continue to grow, opening up new opportunities for unskilled work. Employers will need labour in sectors such as agriculture, logistics and services. With the influx of immigrants increasing and the local labour force declining, unskilled jobs will become more available and diverse.

Prospects:

• Increased demand for labor in agriculture due to population growth.
• Expansion of logistics and warehousing services thanks to the development of online trading.
• Rebuilding the tourism sector, which will create new jobs in the hotel industry.
• Growing interest in temporary employment and flexible working hours.
• Opportunities for training and professional development through the employment program.

Unskilled work in Belgium in 2025 will not only provide new opportunities for foreign workers, but also support the local economy. Flexible working conditions and growing demand will create optimal conditions for employment. Immigrants can count on a variety of vacancies and programs that facilitate integration into the labor market.

Advice:

Maintain your language skills to increase your chances of getting a job in Belgium.

Tips for finding a job

1. Explore the job market
   Do some research to find out what jobs are in high demand in your area of interest. This will help you better understand your options.
2. Create a relevant CV
   Make sure your CV meets the standards of the Belgian labour market. Mention key skills and achievements that match the vacancies you are interested in.
3. Use Online Platforms
   Regularly check job search sites like Indeed, LinkedIn, and local recruiting agencies to find current listings.
4. Network
   Participating in networking events and professional groups can help you meet potential employers and colleagues. Networking often plays a key role in finding a job.
5. Update your skills
   If you have the opportunity, take refresher courses or learn new skills that may be useful in your professional field.
6. Be prepared for the interview
   Prepare for potential interview questions, research the company, and practice your answers. Being confident in the interview can greatly increase your chances of success.
7. Know your rights
   Familiarize yourself with Belgian labor laws, including workers’ rights and employment contract requirements. This will help you avoid misunderstandings with your employer.
8. Stay Positive
   Job hunting can take time. Maintain a positive attitude and be persistent in your efforts.
9. Seek Help
   If you’re having trouble finding a job on your own, consider turning to career counselors or placement agencies who can offer valuable advice and resources.
10. Use social media
    Platforms like Facebook and Instagram can be useful for finding job openings and connecting with people in the field you’re interested in.

These tips will help you find unskilled jobs in Belgium. Remember that persistence and continuous self-development play an important role in finding a job.