Belgium to Introduce New Rules for Cross-Border Workers

Belgium will introduce new regulations for cross-border workers in August, replacing rules that have been in place since 1981.

The existing regulations no longer reflect the current realities of cross-border employment. The new rules will take effect one day after they are published in the Belgian Official Gazette.

Cross-border workers living in Germany, France, Luxembourg, or the Netherlands who currently hold an Annex 15 permit will be given a 12-month grace period to comply with the new requirements.

However, different rules will apply to cross-border workers residing in the United Kingdom (UK).

UK-based cross-border workers are being advised to apply for a long-term Belgian visa, known as a D visa, as soon as possible through the Belgian Embassy in London.

Once the new regulations take effect, cross-border workers living in the UK will no longer be allowed to enter Belgium using an Annex 15 permit.