As of 1 September 2026, the Flemish Regional Authority will charge an additional €180 retribution fee for every combined Work and Residence permit application, including both first‑time submissions and renewals. The fee does not apply to short‑term work permits.
- The €180 fee covers the administrative costs of the Work Authorization portion of the application, which is processed by the Flemish Regional Authority.
- It is in addition to the existing federal retribution fee that funds the Residence permit.
- Applications will not be processed until the fee is paid.
Payment procedure
- One Stop Shop – the fee can be paid immediately after completing the application form.
- Post‑submission window – a short period after submission during which payment can be made; a notification is sent via the e‑Box system.
Once payment is confirmed, the application status changes to “Retribution paid” and the file is forwarded to the regional authority for further handling.
Other recent Belgium updates
- Mandatory digital filing through the “Working in Belgium” portal becomes effective May 2026.
- A compulsory integration program for non‑EU labor migrants to Flanders has been introduced.
- New salary threshold established for ex officio family reunification visas.
Source article: newlandchase.com
