Belgium Startup Visa: All You Need To Know

Are you a non-EU entrepreneur looking to start your business journey in Belgium? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the Belgium Self-Employed Visa, also known as the Professional Card.

This blog provides step-by-step insights into understanding the purpose and eligibility requirements, navigating the application process, costs, potential challenges, and more. Whether you’re a freelancer, consultant, or startup founder, learn how this visa can open doors to new opportunities in Belgium.

What is the Belgium Self-Employed Visa?

The Belgium Self-Employed Visa is a special category of visa designed for non-European Union (EU) nationals who wish to start or manage their own business in Belgium. It allows individuals to legally reside in the country while operating as self-employed professionals or entrepreneurs. This visa is typically granted through the Professional Card, which acts as a work permit specifically for self-employed activities.

💭 Purpose of the Visa

The visa aims to attract non-EU nationals who can contribute to Belgium’s economic growth through innovative business ideas, investments, or professional services. It facilitates entrepreneurial ventures across various sectors, including technology, arts, consultancy, and more.

💳 The Professional Card

The Professional Card is the cornerstone of the Belgium Self-Employed Visa. Issued by the regional authorities (Flanders, Wallonia, or Brussels), it serves as proof of permission to operate a business or engage in self-employed activities. Applicants must demonstrate the economic utility of their business or profession to obtain this card.

Key 🗝️ aspects of the Professional Card:

• It is specific to the applicant’s stated business activity.
• It is granted for an initial period (often one to five years) and is renewable.
• It ensures compliance with Belgian labor laws for self-employed individuals.

How It Enables Non-EU Entrepreneurs to Operate Businesses in Belgium

The Professional Card provides non-EU entrepreneurs with the legal framework to:

• Take advantage of Belgium’s infrastructure and market opportunities to grow their business.
• Establish and run a business entity or operate as a freelancer in Belgium.
• Access Belgium’s vibrant economy and strategic location in the European Union.
• Build professional networks within Belgium’s multicultural business environment.

📌 Must Read: What is a Startup Visa? 👈

Who is Eligible to Apply for the Belgium Self-Employed Visa?

The Belgium Self-Employed Visa is open to non-European Union (EU) nationals who wish to operate a business or work as self-employed professionals in Belgium. This visa is tailored for individuals who can demonstrate their potential to contribute positively to the Belgian economy through innovative ideas, skills, and financial investment.

👩‍🦰 Non-EU Nationals as Primary Applicants

The visa is explicitly designed for individuals who are not citizens of EU or EFTA (European Free Trade Association) countries. Applicants from these regions must comply with stricter immigration and business regulations compared to EU nationals, who are generally exempt from such requirements.

🧑‍💻 Types of Eligible Applicants

The Belgium Self-Employed Visa is suitable for a wide range of professionals, including:

1. Freelancers – Independent professionals in fields such as IT, design, or writing.
2. Small Business Owners – Entrepreneurs who intend to establish and manage small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
3. Consultants – Experts offering professional services in areas like business strategy, law, or finance.
4. Innovators and Creatives – Individuals in sectors such as arts, technology, and innovation.

🗝️ Key Eligibility Factors

To qualify for the Belgium Self-Employed Visa, applicants must meet specific criteria, including:

Examples include creating jobs for locals, enhancing regional innovation, or filling market gaps.

1- Detailed Business Plan

• The applicant must submit a comprehensive business plan that outlines:
  • The nature of the business or professional activity.
  • Market analysis, including competition and potential clients.
  • Financial projections, such as anticipated revenue and profitability.

• The plan must highlight the economic benefits the business will bring to Belgium, such as job creation or innovation.

2- Relevant Professional Qualifications

• Applicants must demonstrate their expertise and experience in their field.
• This can include degrees, certifications, and a professional portfolio showcasing past projects.

3- Economic Contribution to Belgium

• The business plan must illustrate how the venture will positively impact the Belgian economy.
• Examples include creating jobs for locals, enhancing regional innovation, or filling market gaps.

📌 Must Read: All About Technology Sector in Startups 👈

Key Requirements for the Belgium Self-Employed Visa

📄 Documents Needed for the Application

To apply for the Belgium Self-Employed Visa, applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:

1. Valid Passport
   • A passport with at least 6 months of validity from the date of application and sufficient blank pages for visa endorsements.
2. Business Plan
   • A detailed business plan that demonstrates the nature of the proposed business, market analysis, financial projections, and its potential contribution to the Belgian economy.
   • The plan should outline how the business will create jobs, fill market needs, or foster innovation.
3. Proof of Financial Means
   • Evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself and your business operations in Belgium. This includes bank statements, savings accounts, or proof of financial backing.
4. Health Insurance
   • Comprehensive health insurance coverage valid in Belgium to ensure access to healthcare services.
5. Evidence of Accommodation
   • Proof of where you will reside in Belgium, such as a rental agreement or property ownership documents.

📈 Importance of Presenting a Market Analysis and Professional Skills

• Market Analysis:
  • Applicants must present evidence that their business idea is viable and will not negatively affect the local market. This includes research on competition, target audience, and the demand for the proposed service or product.
• Professional Skills:
  • Demonstrating your qualifications, expertise, and experience in your field is critical. Supporting documents like diplomas, certifications, or a professional portfolio strengthen your application.

🌍 Region-Specific Requirements (if any)

Belgium’s visa application process may involve region-specific evaluations based on the location where the business will operate (Flanders, Wallonia, or Brussels).

• Each region has its own economic policies and may request additional documents or justification for the business’s value to that particular region.
• Applications are typically assessed by regional authorities to determine the economic utility of the business.

📌 Must Read: Financial Projections Tips for Entrepreneurs and Startups 👈

Application Process: Step By Step

1. 👣 Submit the Application to a Belgian Consulate/Embassy
   • Begin the process in your home country by submitting your application to the nearest Belgian consulate or embassy.
   • Include all required documents such as a valid passport, business plan, proof of financial means, and health insurance.
   • Pay the applicable visa fees during submission.
2. 👣 Review and Assessment by Regional Authorities
   • After submission, your application is forwarded to the appropriate regional authority in Belgium: Flanders, Wallonia, or Brussels.
   • Authorities assess the application based on economic utility, market analysis, and the applicant’s professional qualifications.
   • The evaluation ensures that your business aligns with regional economic goals and provides a benefit to the Belgian economy.
3. 👣 Issuance of the Professional Card
   • If approved, you will receive a Professional Card, which acts as your permit to work as a self-employed individual in Belgium.
   • The card outlines the scope of your approved activities and is valid for a specific period, typically one to three years, with the possibility of renewal.
4. 👣 Registration for a Residence Permit Upon Arrival
   • After arriving in Belgium, register at the local municipality (commune) where your business will be located.
   • This step is required to obtain your residence permit, allowing you to legally reside and operate in Belgium.

📌 Must Read: UK Innovator Founder Visa: Ultimate Guide 👈

⏳ Approximate Timelines for Each Step

• Initial Application Submission:
  Processing time at the consulate/embassy can take 4–8 weeks, depending on the complexity of the case and the completeness of the documentation.
• Assessment by Regional Authorities:
  This phase typically requires 6–12 weeks, during which the regional authorities evaluate your application and decide whether to issue the Professional Card.
• Issuance of the Professional Card:
  Upon approval, the Professional Card is issued and forwarded to the applicant, which may take an additional 2–4 weeks.
• Residence Permit Registration:
  Registering with the local municipality and obtaining the residence permit can take 2–3 weeks after arriving in Belgium.

📌 Must Read: How to Write a CV or Resume as a Startup Founder 👈

Costs of Applying for the Belgium Self-Employed Visa

1. Visa Application Fee
   • Non-EU nationals must pay a visa application fee when submitting their application at the Belgian consulate or embassy.
   • The standard fee for a long-stay visa (D visa) is approximately €180, but this may vary depending on your country of origin.
2. Professional Card Costs
   The Professional Card fee includes an initial issuance cost and annual renewal fees:
   • First issuance: €140–€250, depending on the region and the card’s duration.
   • Annual renewal: €90–€150 for subsequent years.
3. Document Legalization and Translation Fees
   • Documents such as diplomas, business plans, and financial statements must be legalized or apostilled and translated into one of Belgium’s official languages (Dutch, French, or German).
   • Legalization fees can range from €25–€50 per document, and professional translation services may cost €30–€60 per page.
4. Health Insurance Costs
   • Applicants are required to have comprehensive health insurance covering medical expenses in Belgium.
   • Insurance premiums can range from €50–€150 per month, depending on the coverage and provider.
5. Residence Permit Fees
   • Upon arrival in Belgium, registering for a residence permit incurs additional fees:
     • Residence registration fee: Approximately €200–€250.
     • Administrative charges vary by municipality.

📌 Must Read: Business Models: B2B vs. B2C vs. C2C + Real-World Examples 👈

💰 Estimated Total Costs

The total cost of applying for the Belgium Self-Employed Visa depends on individual circumstances and specific requirements. Below is a rough estimate:

• Visa Application Fee: €180
• Professional Card (first issuance): €140–€250
• Document Legalization and Translation Fees: €100–€300
• Health Insurance (1 year): €600–€1,800
• Residence Permit Registration: €200–€250
• Miscellaneous Costs (travel, notarization, etc.): €100–€200

Total Estimated Costs: €1,320–€2,980

Challenges and Tips for Applicants

1. Preparing the Business Plan
   • Crafting a detailed and compelling business plan is a significant hurdle. Applicants must demonstrate how their business will positively impact Belgium’s economy, a task requiring clear articulation of market demand, strategy, and financial projections.
   • Tailoring the plan to meet the specific evaluation criteria of regional authorities (Flanders, Wallonia, or Brussels) can be time-consuming and complex.
2. Meeting Financial Requirements
   • Proving financial stability is another challenge. Applicants must provide evidence of sufficient funds to cover personal living expenses and initial business costs, which may vary depending on the industry and location.
   • Convincing authorities of the financial viability of the proposed business can be daunting, especially for startups in competitive or niche markets.
3. Documentation and Legalization
   • Legalizing and translating essential documents adds administrative and financial complexity. Ensuring all paperwork aligns with Belgian standards requires careful attention to detail.

👍 Tips for Improving Application Success

Tailor your application to the economic priorities and legal requirements of the specific region where you intend to establish your business. Research the focus areas of Flanders, Wallonia, or Brussels for alignment.

1. Highlight the Economic Impact in the Business Plan
   • Clearly outline how your business will benefit Belgium’s economy, focusing on:
     • Job creation for local residents.
     • Contributions to innovation or filling a market gap.
     • Long-term sustainability and growth potential.
   • Include specific metrics, such as projected revenue, employment numbers, or partnerships with local businesses, to reinforce your case.
2. Prepare a Robust Financial and Market Analysis
   • Present a detailed financial plan showing sufficient capital reserves and realistic forecasts. Include potential funding sources if applicable.
   • Conduct a market analysis to demonstrate demand for your product or service in Belgium, addressing how your business aligns with local economic priorities.
3. Seek Professional Assistance
   • Consult with immigration advisors, business consultants, or legal experts specializing in Belgian visa processes. They can guide you in preparing a strong application and navigating regional requirements.
4. Leverage Local Networks
   • Building connections with Belgian business communities or chambers of commerce can enhance your understanding of market dynamics and provide valuable endorsements.
5. Address Region-Specific Requirements
   • Tailor your application to the economic priorities and legal requirements of the specific region where you intend to establish your business. Research the focus areas of Flanders, Wallonia, or Brussels for alignment.

📌 Must Read: Top 9 Countries for Startup Visas 👈

Role of Launchroad in The Seccess of Your Startup Visa

LaunchRoad is your trusted partner for starting a business abroad. We guide you in choosing the right country, understanding visa requirements, and getting your startup off the ground. As an experienced startup visa consultant, we offer expert startup visa consultation to help you navigate the complexities of international expansion. Our team provides the support, mentorship, and resources you need to succeed in the global market.

Resources:

• immigration-portal.ec.europa.eu

FAQ