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Belgium · Work visa
Professional Card (Self-Employed)
- Processing
- Up to 120 days
- Cost
- From €230 first year
- Validity
- Up to 5 years
Authorization for non-EU nationals to carry out a self-employed or freelance activity in Belgium. Issued by the region and assessed on the economic and social value of the planned business.
Requirements
- Business or freelance activity of benefit to the Belgian economy
- Detailed business plan with market analysis (region-dependent)
- Proof of stable, sufficient means of subsistence (Flanders reference: approx. EUR 26,087/year, 2026)
- Diploma at the minimum qualification level required by the region
- Clean criminal record
Time and cost
- Processing time
- Up to 120 days after the application is accepted
- Validity
- Up to 5 years (set by the region)
- Cost
From €230 first year
Required
- About €140 application fee
- €90/year fee for each year of validity
- Path to residency
- EU long-term residence after 5 years if the activity and means are sustained
Documents
Valid passport
Valid for the intended stay
Business plan
With market analysis and financial projections
Proof of financial means
Bank statements or investment evidence
Diploma / qualification
Meeting the regional qualification level
Criminal record certificate
Within 6 months, legalised
Tips
- The issuing region sets the rules and thresholds
- A credible, financed business plan showing economic benefit is decisive
- You still need a residence permit alongside the professional card