New minimum annual salary levels for non-EU work permits

The Belgian Labour Ministry has announced that it will require all Type B work permit applications to meet or exceed the new 2013 minimum salary levels, Re:Locate magazine reports. Type B work permits are for nationals of non-European Economic Area (EEA) countries who are either highly skilled workers or are posted to senior management/executive-level positions in Belgium. They are typically valid for one year and limited to a single company sponsor. Applications are adjudicated by the regional labour ministry with jurisdiction over the intended place of work.

From January 1, Belgian companies submitting new and renewal Type B applications must confirm that non-EEA workers will be paid at least the equivalent of the following:

•Highly skilled foreign workers must earn a minimum annual base salary of €38,665 (the current minimum is €37,721)

•Senior management and executive-level positions must earn a minimum base salary of €64,508 (the current minimum is €62,934)

Employers should review the new requirements with their immigration service provider before filing an application.