Belgium offers different possibilities for people who wish to engage in a professional activity as self-employed person or create a business. The conditions to be met depend mainly on the nationality of the applicant and his/her residence status.
Citizens of the European Union benefit from the principle of free establishment. This means that they can engage in self-employed activity in Belgium without having to obtain a work permit. Before starting their activity, they must generally register as a company with the Banque-Carrefour des Entreprises and then go to the municipality to register their stay in Belgium.
For third-country nationals, the exercise of a self-employed activity generally requires obtaining a professional card in Belgium. This authorization allows legally to exercise an independent activity on the Belgian territory.
The application for a professional card can be submitted either from abroad to a Belgian embassy or consulate, or in Belgium if the person already has a legal stay. The application is then examined by the competent regional authorities (Flemish Region, Walloon Region or Brussels-Capital Region).
Pour évaluer la demande, les autorités examinent plusieurs éléments, notamment la viabilité du projet, les qualifications professionnelles du demandeur et l’impact économique de l’activité envisagée. Un plan d’affaires solide est généralement nécessaire pour démontrer la faisabilité du projet.
Once the professional card has been granted, the person can take the necessary steps to obtain a residence permit allowing him/her to carry out his/her activity in Belgium.
Frequently asked questions
1️⃣ Can a foreigner become independent in Belgium?
Yes, but the conditions vary according to nationality. EU citizens are generally able to engage in self-employment more easily than third country nationals.
2️⃣ What is the professional card in Belgium?
The professional card is an authorisation allowing third-country nationals to engage in self-employed activity in Belgium.
3️⃣ Can one apply for a professional card from abroad?
Yes. The application can be submitted to a Belgian embassy or consulate in the country of residence.
4️⃣ What documents are usually requested for the business card?
Authorities may request a valid passport, business plan, evidence of professional qualifications and other documentsadministratifs.
5️⃣ How long does the procedure take?
The procedure may take several months, as regional authorities examine the economic viability of the project.
6️⃣ Can one apply for a residence permit after obtaining the professional card?
Yes. Once the authorization is granted, the person can start the process to obtain a residence permit in Belgium.