BELGIUM: Immigration reform aims to expedite single permit application processing

Feb 26, 2020 | Global

Summary of the Issue – After much lobbying, the Belgian government is taking actions to reform the single permit application process with the goal of improving processing timeframes. Implemented on January 1, 2019, the single permit application allows non-EU employees to work in multiple branches of an EU-based multinational company. The single permit replaced a two-sided process for obtaining residence and work permits each with their own rules and procedures.

Policy Reform – The reforms focuses on increasing the number of immigration bureaucrats, streamlining internal processes, and taking advantage of technology efficiencies.

Impact – Upon implementation, the reforms promise to expedite immigration processing by allowing single permit holders (including first-time applicants, renewal applicants, and those changing employers) to start or continue employment upon approval of regional authorities.  First-time applicants must still obtain approval from federal authorities, but can begin working upon approval from local authorities.

More Information

 

Subscribe to the WR Immigration Newsletters

Request an Attorney Consultation

Start the RFP Process

Join the Corporate Benchmarking Roundtable

Related Posts:

Global Travel Advisory: Where Can Americans Travel

Last Updated: November 30, 2020 As the number of coronavirus cases around the world spikes, Americans may find their international travel plans impeded by closed borders, cancelled flights, quarantines and testing. Many countries are still barring all U.S. citizens from entering their borders, or have entry restrictions. Also, The Center...

UK Confirms it Will Increase Immigration Fees as of October 4

The UK has now set a date for its much-anticipated immigration fee increases – as of 4 October 2023 fees will be increasing. This includes a 15% increase in work visa filing fees, a 20% increase in the Certificate of Sponsorship fee, and alignment of fees charged for optional priority expedited application processing...