Brussels Updates Shortage Occupation List for 2025 — 81 Jobs That Can Fast-Track Your Belgium Work Visa
Effective July 1, 2025, Brussels has rolled out its revised shortage occupation list, making it easier for foreign professionals in key fields to secure Belgian work permits. The update cuts several personal-service roles but adds new IT jobs, reflecting the capital’s growing demand for digital skills.
What Is the Brussels Shortage Occupation List?
The shortage occupation list, issued by Actiris (Brussels’ public employment service), identifies professions with a lack of qualified local candidates.
If your job is on this list:
- Employers can hire you without the usual labour market test.
- Work permit processing is faster and more straightforward.
The list is updated annually and directly influences immigration opportunities for skilled non-EU professionals.
Key Changes in 2025
This year’s update narrows the scope to 81 professions — one fewer than last year. Major shifts include:
- Sales sector reduction: From nine roles down to just two.
- Personal services trimmed: Roles like public safety officer, home cleaner, and hairdresser removed — but security guard remains.
- New IT roles added: Signalling Brussels’ focus on digital innovation and tech talent.
- No transition rules announced: It’s still unclear how pending applications for now-removed jobs will be treated.
Examples of Common Shortage Roles
While the full 2025 list hasn’t been fully released to the public, previous years have included:
- IT specialists – software developers, network administrators, cybersecurity experts.
- Engineers – mechanical, electrical, civil.
- Healthcare workers – nurses, certain medical specialists.
- Construction & trades – electricians, welders, plumbers, heavy equipment operators.
- Finance & accounting professionals.
- Truck drivers & logistics experts.
- Specialised sales roles & security guards.
Why It Matters for Foreign Workers
If your occupation is on the list:
- Employers skip the labour market test.
- Your work permit application moves faster.
- You gain a competitive edge over candidates in non-shortage roles.
Work Visa & Permit Routes in Belgium
- Single Permit
- Combines work & residence authorisation (for stays over 90 days).
- Shortage-list jobs skip the labour market check.
- Salary thresholds still apply.
- Work Permits (A, B, C)
- Type B is most common — linked to one employer, valid for one year. Labour market testing waived for shortage jobs.
- Type A for long-term residents with multiple years of Type B permits.
- Type C for short-term or uncertain-status residents (e.g., asylum seekers).
- EU Blue Card
- For highly skilled professionals meeting salary and education requirements.
- Offers more mobility within the EU.
- Working Holiday Visa
- Available for citizens of Australia, Canada, and New Zealand (ages 18–30).
- Exemptions
- EU/EEA/Swiss citizens can work freely. Some other nationalities benefit from bilateral agreements.
The Transparency Gap
One challenge remains — the complete shortage list is not publicly accessible. Without open publication, many applicants are left guessing whether their role qualifies. For certainty, job seekers must check directly with Actiris or their prospective employer.
Key Takeaways
- 81 shortage occupations listed in Brussels for 2025.
- Personal service jobs reduced; IT roles expanded.
- Labour market testing waived for shortage-list jobs.
- Full list available only through Actiris or the Brussels Capital Region labour department.
- Salary thresholds remain critical for permit eligibility.
Bottom line:
Brussels’ updated shortage occupation list is a golden ticket for qualified foreign workers — especially in IT, engineering, healthcare, and security. If you’re in one of these roles, you could fast-track your Belgian work visa and secure your place in one of Europe’s most international job markets.
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