Work in Belgium for Bulgarians: search, paperwork and adaptation

Belgium is a convenient option for Bulgarian citizens looking for work abroad. The country offers a choice of vacancies in such areas as construction, agriculture and IT. Despite the simplicity of labor migration for EU citizens, it is important to understand the nuances of finding a job, obtaining visas and adapting to life in Belgium. In this article, we will tell you how Bulgarian citizens can get a job in Belgium and what features should be taken into account.

Overview of the labour market in Belgium

The Belgian labour market for Bulgarian citizens continues to grow, especially after Bulgaria joined the EU. According to the latest data, the number of Bulgarians working in Belgium reached almost 100,000 in 2023. This is due to the high demand for labor in industries such as construction, agriculture and IT. In this section, we will consider which professions are in demand for Bulgarians in Belgium and how the labour market is developing.

Professions for Bulgarians in Belgium:

• The construction industry in Belgium is constantly in need of skilled workers. Bulgarian citizens are in demand in such areas as installation, finishing works, bricklaying and plumbing.
• Agricultural worker. Agriculture in Belgium actively employs foreign workers, especially for harvesting, farm work and greenhouse work. This is seasonal work that often requires physical stamina.
• Programmer and IT specialist. Belgium is seeing a growing demand for qualified IT specialists. Software developers, cybersecurity specialists and web designers are in-demand professions for Bulgarians.
• Healthcare worker: With the increasing demand for healthcare services in the country, nurses, doctors and pharmacists with the appropriate qualifications can find work in hospitals and clinics.
• Service worker. Professions in the hotel and restaurant business (waiters, cooks, bartenders) are popular among Bulgarians in Belgium. Tourism and hospitality are always open to foreign specialists.
• Driver and Logistician. Truck drivers and logistics specialists are in demand for work in the transport and warehousing industries. This work often involves long business trips around Europe.

The Belgian labour market for Bulgarians continues to expand, offering new opportunities to work in various industries. With increasing demand for workers in areas such as healthcare, agriculture and IT, the outlook for Bulgarians in 2025 looks good. Working in Belgium continues to be attractive for Bulgarians, with opportunities for career growth and stable income.

Advice:

Bulgarian citizens working in Belgium can claim social benefits such as child benefits and health insurance.

Types of work permits for Bulgarian residents in Belgium

Although Bulgarian citizens, as EU members, can work in Belgium without a visa, in some cases a work permit may be required. This is due to special conditions for certain types of activities or length of stay. The permit allows for official work, providing access to social guarantees and respect for the rights of the worker.

Types of work permits in Belgium for Bulgarians:

1. Working resolution type A
   • Valid throughout Belgium without any restrictions on profession.
   • Validity period: unlimited.
   • Who can get it: foreigners who have worked in Belgium for at least 4 years.
   • Cost: usually free, but registration requires supporting documents.
2. Working resolution type B
   • Issued for work with a specific employer in a specific position.
   • Validity period: 1 year with the possibility of extension.
   • Who can benefit: Those who meet the employment conditions, including EU citizens for specific occupations.
   • Cost: from 50 euros for application processing.
3. Working permit type C
   • Allows you to work in several places, but is limited to a certain time of stay.
   • Validity period: up to 1 year, with the possibility of extension.
   • Who can qualify: Temporary workers such as students or seasonal employees.
   • Cost: from 25 euros for application processing.
4. European Worker Mobility Map
   • Officially permits temporary work in various EU countries, including Belgium.
   • Validity period: from 6 months to 2 years.
   • Who can get it: highly qualified specialists, IT experts, researchers.
   • Cost: from 200 euros depending on the country of application.

The choice of the appropriate permit depends on the length of employment, the type of position and the employer. Bulgarian citizens are advised to check whether a permit is required for their profession, especially in cases of temporary or seasonal employment. Obtaining the correct document will not only speed up the employment process, but will also ensure that all legal requirements are met.

Interesting fact:
Some employers in Belgium take full responsibility for obtaining work permits for their employees.

How to find a job in Belgium

Finding a job in Belgium for Bulgarian citizens is possible through various resources and platforms. Job sites, specialized agencies and direct contact with employers help simplify the process. Knowledge of languages, an up-to-date resume and understanding of the specifics of the Belgian labor market significantly increase the chances of success.

Ways to find a job in Belgium:

1. Job search sites:
   • Indeed Belgium
     A site for job search in various industries. Site: indeed.beStepStoneA platform for job search in professional fields. Site: stepstone.be
   • VDAB
     Flemish public employment service offering vacancies and courses.Website: vdab.beAddress: digital platformPhone: +32 800 30 700
2. Recruitment agencies:
   • Randstad Belgium
     International agency helping with job search in various sectors.Website: randstad.beAddress: Boulevard du Roi Albert II 37, 1030 BrusselsPhone: +32 2 506 60 00Cost: services paid by the employer.
   • Adecco Belgium
     Agency for finding temporary and permanent work.Website: adecco.beAddress: Rue des Sables 8, 1000 BrusselsPhone: +32 2 678 28 11
3. Direct appeal to companies:
   • Use corporate company websites to search for vacancies.
   • Prepare a personalized resume and cover letter.
4. Social networks and professional platforms:
   • LinkedIn
     A useful tool for job searching, networking and connecting with employers.
   • Facebook groups
   • Bulgarian communities in Belgium often post job vacancies.

In addition to the standard methods, Bulgarians can use alternative options, such as participating in job fairs or studying in Belgium and then getting a job. It is also useful to contact Bulgarian communities, which can suggest current vacancies or provide useful contacts. Sometimes spontaneous visits to employers on the spot are more effective than online applications. The main key to success is to be persistent and constantly expand your network of contacts.

Tip:
Employers in Belgium value initiative, so personal contact can play a decisive role in finding a job.

Employment Procedure for Residents of Bulgaria

For Bulgarian citizens planning to work in Belgium, it is important to prepare in advance and understand the main stages of the process. Since Bulgaria is a member of the EU, Bulgarian citizens can work in Belgium without the need for work visas, but certain formalities still need to be completed. Proper planning and knowledge of all stages of employment will help to avoid possible delays and difficulties.

List of stages of employment:

1. Study of the labor market.
   • Determine what vacancies are available in your field.
   • Use job search sites: VDAB, Actiris, Forem.
2. Writing a resume and motivation letter.
   • Prepare documents in English, French or Dutch.
   • Please provide relevant work experience and skills.
3. Search for an employer.
   • Contact recruiting agencies such as Randstad or Manpower.
   • Use LinkedIn platforms and dedicated social media groups.
4. Registration in Belgium.
   • Upon arrival, register with the local commune.
   • You must provide your passport, rental agreement and employment contract.
5. Obtaining a national registry number.
   • Issued upon registration, needed for tax and social security contributions.
6. Opening a bank account.
   • Required to receive wages.
   • The service is free at most banks.
7. Registration of medical insurance.
   • Mandatory procedure for all employees.
   • The cost of insurance is about 100 euros per month.

If you have been rejected for a job, it is important to stay calm and consider alternative options. Analyze the reasons for the rejection, improve your resume, and try applying for other vacancies. You can also contact employment agencies for advice and recommendations. Remember that job hunting is a process that requires patience and persistence.

Interesting fact:

Bulgarian citizens have the right to work in Belgium without obtaining a work permit due to Bulgaria’s membership in the EU.

Salary overview

Salaries in Belgium depend on several factors: the field of activity, the level of qualification, work experience and the region. In some sectors, the difference in salaries between locals and foreign workers can be minimal, especially if the worker has in-demand skills. However, in low-skilled sectors, salaries for Bulgarian workers are sometimes lower due to their initial level of language proficiency or lack of local experience.

Table: Salaries for different professions for Bulgarians and local residents (in euros, per month):

Profession	Bulgarians (average)	Local residents (average)
Builder	2,000 – 2,500	2,500 – 3,000
Agricultural worker	1,800 – 2,200	2,000 – 2,500
Truck driver	2,200 – 2,800	2,500 – 3,200
IT specialist	3,000 – 4,000	3,500 – 5,000
Nurse	2,300 – 3,000	2,800 – 3,500
Waiter	1,800 – 2,000	2,000 – 2,200
Engineer	3,200 – 4,000	3,800 – 5,000
Teacher	2,500 – 3,200	3,000 – 3,800

In order to increase their salary in Belgium, Bulgarian workers are advised to improve their level of local languages, such as French or Dutch. It is also useful to regularly attend refresher courses or learn new skills that are in demand in a particular industry. It is also important to actively seek out career opportunities and establish professional contacts.

And an interesting fact:

Belgian companies are willing to pay for the training of their employees, especially if it is related to their professional activities.

Tips for adapting to Belgian society

To successfully adapt to Belgian society, it is important to pay attention to learning the local languages – French, Dutch or German, depending on the region of residence. Knowledge of the language opens up more opportunities for communication, finding a job and integrating into the local community. Numerous language courses are available both online and offline, including free programs for migrants.

Getting to know the culture and traditions of Belgium is very important. Visiting local events, participating in city festivals and learning about the region’s peculiarities will help you become part of society faster. For example, participating in carnivals, which are popular in Wallonia, or tasting local dishes in Flanders can be a great way to meet locals.

Social contacts play a key role in adaptation. Bulgarians should actively participate in the life of the community, join clubs or associations of interest. This will help not only to make new friends, but also to establish useful connections for professional growth. Locals value initiative and openness, which greatly simplifies the process of establishing contacts.

It is also important to follow local rules and regulations. For example, in Belgium punctuality and waste separation are very strict. Following these simple rules demonstrates respect for society and helps avoid conflicts. It is also advisable to be polite and tactful in communication, as Belgians value respect for their culture.