Work in Antwerp: vacancies, requirements and opportunities

Antwerp is the second largest city in Belgium and an important economic center of the country. Its port is the largest in the world, which makes the city attractive for labor migration. Work in Antwerp attracts both locals and foreign specialists due to its developed infrastructure, international companies and diverse career opportunities. In this article, we will consider the main vacancies, requirements for candidates, as well as ways to find a job and the level of salaries in the city.

Jobs in Antwerp

Antwerp is one of the most dynamic economic centers in Belgium, offering a wide range of employment opportunities for professionals from various industries. The city is convenient for professionals in the fields of logistics, maritime transport and trade, due to its port, one of the largest in the world. In addition, Antwerp is actively developing in the field of IT and the diamond industry, which creates new vacancies and attracts foreign specialists.

Main vacancies in Antwerp:

• Logistics and transport. Jobs include cargo management, port work, warehouse management and international shipping.
• Diamond Industry: Antwerp is the world centre for diamond trading, providing opportunities for jewellers, appraisers and sales agents.
• IT and digital technologies. Programmers, system administrators, cybersecurity specialists and software developers.
• Engineering and manufacturing. Work in factories and plants involved in the processing of goods, mechanical engineering, and the production of electronics.
• Work in hotels, restaurants and the tourism sector. The city attracts many tourists, which ensures a steady demand for workers in this area.
• Finance and accounting. Vacancies for financial consultants, accountants and auditors in international companies and banks.
• Marketing and sales. Work in sales and marketing in both local and international companies.
• Medicine and Pharmaceutics. Doctors, nurses and pharmacists are in demand in city hospitals and private clinics.

Antwerp offers a large number of vacancies for specialists in various industries, which makes the city attractive for labor migration. To find a job, it is important to have relevant skills and language skills, as many employers require knowledge of English, Dutch or French.

Advice:

To increase your chances of finding a job in Antwerp, regularly update your CV and keep an eye on current vacancies on professional online platforms.

Requirements for candidates

To successfully find employment in Antwerp, candidates must meet a number of requirements that ensure their readiness for the dynamic international labour market. In addition to professional skills, employers value experience of working in an international environment and flexibility in adapting to cultural differences. Working in Antwerp is suitable for specialists who are ready to actively interact in a team and strive for career growth in a highly competitive environment.

Requirements for candidates:

• Knowledge of the local language (Dutch) and preferably English; French will be an added advantage.
• Experience working in international companies or in cooperation with foreign partners.
• High level of education as required by the position (including a bachelor’s or master’s degree).
• Flexibility and willingness to adapt to the cultural and professional standards of Antwerp.
• Experience working in multidisciplinary teams, ability to communicate effectively and resolve conflicts.
• Knowledge of local legal regulations and basic business etiquette will be an advantage.
• Confident skills in working with basic office programs and digital platforms.
• Self-organization and multitasking skills.
• Some positions may require specific certifications or licenses.

Working in Antwerp, the Flemish region of Belgium, offers the opportunity to build a career in leading international companies, but preparing for this requires a conscious approach. Tip: continuous training and participation in courses will help you adapt more quickly to the requirements of the local market.

Advice:

To successfully adapt to working in Antwerp, actively participate in professional and networking events in the city – this will help you establish useful contacts and better understand local work processes.

How to find a job in Antwerp

Working in Antwerp attracts many professionals due to its high living standards and active labor market. There are vacancies for both qualified workers and those just starting their careers. You can start your job search in this city through specialized online platforms and agencies that help you find suitable offers and provide useful information.

How to find a job in Antwerp:

• VDAB: State employment centre, offers help in finding a job and advice for candidates. Address: Koningin Astridplein 7, 2018 Antwerp. Phone: +32 3 202 30 30. Website: https://www.vdab.be .
• be: Online platform with job vacancies in Antwerp for different skill levels. Website: https://www.jobat.be .
• StepStone: international job site with vacancies in various fields, including Antwerp. Website: https://www.stepstone.be .
• Actief Interim Antwerpen: employment agency, helps to find temporary and permanent work. Address: Nationalestraat 123, 2000 Antwerpen. Phone: +32 3 220 84 80. Website: https :// www . actief . be .

Finding a job in Antwerp is easy if you actively use resources and maintain connections with local communities. This Flemish region of Belgium is known for its fashion and design capabilities, which attracts professionals from all over the world.

Advice:

To successfully find a job in Antwerp, try to actively participate in local events and networking, this can help you find suitable vacancies faster and strengthen connections in the professional community.

Salary levels in Antwerp

In Antwerp, wages vary depending on the industry, qualifications and experience of the employees. The average income here attracts both locals and foreigners who come to work in various industries. For immigrants, wages depend on language and skills, but many companies provide equal opportunities for local and foreign specialists.

Profession	Average salary (locals)	Average salary (immigrants)
IT specialist	€4,500	€4,200
Medical worker	€3,800	€3,500
Engineer	€4,000	€3,800
Teacher	€3,200	€3,000
Service worker	€2,500	€2,300
Builder	€3,000	€2,800
Agricultural worker	€2,200	€2,000

Antwerp’s salaries make it a promising destination for professionals of all levels, and the difference in income between locals and immigrants often depends on experience and skills. In the capital region of Belgium, companies offer good conditions for those who are ready to develop and adapt to the local labor market. Understanding current salaries will help not only to choose a profession, but also to plan career growth in Antwerp.

Advice:

To successfully find employment and increase your salary, it is useful to improve your knowledge of local languages – Flemish or French.

How to get a job

Finding a job in Antwerp can seem like a daunting task, especially for expats, but with the right information and a plan of action, it is doable. The local job market is full of opportunities, and understanding the steps involved can help speed up the job search process. It is important to not only prepare the necessary documents, but also to understand how the employment system works in Belgium.

Stages of employment registration in Antwerp:

1. Skills assessment. Check what skills and experience are in demand in your field and assess whether they match the local market requirements.
2. Prepare your CV. Create a professional CV in English, Flemish or French, depending on the job opening.
3. Job Search. Use online platforms such as VDAB, Jobat and StepStone to find current job openings.
4. Submitting applications. Submit resumes and cover letters for the vacancies you are interested in, paying attention to the employers’ requirements.
5. Prepare for interviews, research the company, and think about questions you might ask.
6. Contract preparation. After receiving a job offer, carefully review the employment contract and clarify all the terms.
7. Register with local authorities. Once you have obtained a job, you must register with your local municipality and, if necessary, obtain a visa or work permit.
8. Opening a bank account: You will need a local bank account to receive your salary, so choose a bank and open an account.
9. Make sure you have health insurance that is valid in Belgium.
10. Try to adapt to new living and working conditions by learning the language and culture.

Once you have completed all the stages of applying for a job in Antwerp, you will be able to confidently start your new career. It is important to remember that employment is not only about finding vacancies, but also about networking. Try to actively participate in events and conferences to expand your network and learn more about the local work culture.

Advice:

Don’t hesitate to reach out to local career centers or organizations that can provide helpful resources and job search tips.

Labor Law in Antwerp

Labor law in Antwerp regulates the rights and obligations of employees and employers, ensuring the protection of labor relations. Belgium has a number of laws that set minimum requirements for working conditions, wages, and workers’ rights. Knowing these rules will help both locals and immigrants successfully adapt to the working conditions in the country.

Laws regulating labor law in Belgium:

• Labor Relations Act (Wet betreffende de Arbeidsovereenkomsten (Employment Employment Act) was adopted on 3 July 1978. This law regulates various aspects of employment relationships, including contractual terms and the rights of the parties.
• Workers’ Protection Act (Wet ter bescherming van de werknemer). adopted on June 26, 1967. Establishes minimum rights for workers, including conditions of dismissal and protection from discrimination.
• Working Hours and Holidays Act (Wet op de Arbeidstijden (Working hours) was adopted on 16 March 1971. It defines working hours standards, the length of the working day and the right to rest.
• Minimum Wage Act (Wet betreffende het minimumloon). adopted on July 26, 2000. Establishes minimum wages for workers, protecting them from unscrupulous employers.

The labour law in Antwerp provides the basis for protecting workers’ rights and regulating labour relations. Understanding these laws helps to avoid legal conflicts and provides confidence in the stability of the work process. Workers who are familiar with the labour law can effectively protect their interests and improve their skills. Awareness of their rights and obligations contributes to more harmonious interaction with employers and the strengthening of labour relations.

Advice:

Always read employment contracts carefully and seek advice from employment law specialists if you have any doubts.

Job Prospects in Antwerp in 2025

From 2025 onwards, Antwerp continues to develop as an important hub for various industries, opening up new employment opportunities. Taking into account global and local trends, the city attracts companies and specialists in areas such as technology, logistics and sustainability. Adapting to the new labour market conditions will be a key factor for success.

Job prospects in Antwerp:

• Increased demand for IT specialists due to the growth of digitalization.
• Development of the sustainable energy and green technologies sector.
• Expansion of logistics services, given Antwerp’s strategic location as a port city.
• Growing number of vacancies in healthcare, especially for medical workers and researchers.
• Popularization of the hybrid work format, which will increase the need for remote management specialists.
• Development of the tourism industry, which will create new jobs in the service sector.
• Increasing the importance of language skills, especially Flemish and French, for foreign workers.

The employment prospects in Antwerp in 2025 look promising, creating excellent conditions for professional growth. The city is actively developing in various sectors, and the demand for qualified specialists continues to grow. Adaptation to new technologies and changes in the labor market will be key to a successful career. Using these opportunities, you can significantly improve your position in the labor market.

Advice:

To successfully find employment in Antwerp, it is useful to stay up to date with new trends and actively participate in professional communities.

Job Search Tips

First, actively develop skills that are in demand in the labor market, such as language skills and specialized technical skills.

Secondly, learn about the local culture and traditions to help you adapt to the group more easily.

Create a quality resume and cover letter that highlights your accomplishments and skills, and tailor them to each job opening.

Don’t forget the importance of your network: attending professional events and networking can help you find hidden job openings.

Prepare for interviews by researching questions that might be asked and rehearsing your answers.

Research the companies you want to join to understand their values and culture.

Don’t hesitate to seek advice from people in your field.

It’s also worth being flexible and open to new opportunities, even if they don’t meet your initial expectations.

And don’t forget to keep up with new trends in your field to stay competitive.