As part of the 2024–2029 Flemish Government agreement, a mandatory integration program for non-EU labour migrants is being introduced. To implement this initiative, the Flemish Government has approved the development of a tailored program by the competent Ministry. The objective is to facilitate the successful integration and long-term retention of labour migrants in Flanders.
New integration program
In recent years, Flanders has faced challenges in retaining economic migrants from third countries- only a third of the foreign talent remains in Flanders (according to an Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD) report published in March 2025). The program therefore aims to improve the retention of third-country workers in the region. Although discussions on this initiative have already taken place, its full implementation is not planned before autumn 2027.
The program is targeted at individuals seeking to settle in Belgium for the first time, applying for a long-term residence permit for employment purposes, including self-employment, for activities exceeding one year. Family members of these workers are also included within the scope of the program. Its overarching objective is to enhance integration into both daily life and the workplace, while equipping labour migrants with a clear understanding of their rights and obligations and the appropriate channels for addressing potential abuse.
In practical terms, upon submitting an application for a combined work and residence permit in their country of origin, labour migrants will enter a preliminary phase consisting of a “digital self-study package on social orientation.” This module provides essential information on life in Flanders, social norms, fundamental rights, democratic values, and key societal principles. It also offers guidance on labour law, social security, taxation, and other relevant areas, with oversight provided by integration and civic agencies. Upon completion of the preliminary module, workers will undergo an assessment to evaluate their understanding.
The second phase commences once the registration process in Belgium is finalized. Labour migrants who have not completed the preliminary module prior to arrival will be reminded to do so within six months of receiving the notification. Failure to comply may result in administrative penalties, and non-completion of the module could affect the renewal of their work permit.
Furthermore, the Flemish Government intends to coordinate with other regions to ensure that the preliminary phase in the country of origin is implemented consistently for individuals relocating to Brussels or Wallonia.
Comparison with previous integration program
This represents a shift from the current integration system, which is generally voluntary except in specific cases such as family reunification or refugee status procedures, where participation is mandatory. At present, integration courses take place once newcomers have effectively arrived in Belgium. Moreover, single permit holders are currently exempt from the requirement to follow integration courses, as their stay in Belgium is directly tied to their employment contract and therefore limited in duration.
The new approach marks a significant change in both the scope and nature of the integration program. It will target most workers staying for more than one year, make participation mandatory rather than voluntary, and introduce preparatory steps that must be completed before entering the country. It is important to note, however, that this requirement will apply to new arrivals/ hires. It does not require current single permit holders to additionally follow the existing integration course in Belgium.
Whilst the new program is intended to support the successful integration of migrants, it is likely to create additional administrative burdens for both employees seeking work in Belgium. The new program could discourage labor migrants and result in longer processing times with the regional authorities, for example, when renewing work authorizations, given the additional verification of this integration obligation.
Employers will need to prepare for this change, as additional steps will be required from their employees to ensure that they will be eligible for a work authorization renewal.
Vialto can assist employees and employers in navigating these requirements. If you have any questions regarding whether this system applies to you or your family members, please do not hesitate to contact us.
For a deeper discussion on the above, please reach out to your Vialto Partners point of contact, or alternatively:
Ajshe Miftari
Director
Fabian Gielis
Senior Associate
Marion Van Esch
Associate
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