Single Electronic Platform for Filing Work and Single Permits Forthcoming
April 2, 2021
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At a Glance
- Belgium is launching a Single Electronic Platform, “Working in Belgium”, which will allow employers to electronically file and monitor the status of applications for Single Permits, EU Blue Cards and EU Intracompany Transfer permits.
- The platform is expected to be released for use by the general public in May 2021 and denotes a major step towards digitizing immigration applications in Belgium.
- Employers and foreign nationals can expect that the new immigration platform will streamline immigration processes.
The situation
Belgium is launching a Single Electronic Platform, “Working in Belgium”, which will allow foreign nationals and employers to file certain immigration applications online, beginning in May 2021; this is a major step in the digitization of immigration filing in Belgium.
A closer look
- Use of platform. Employers will be able to use the platform to electronically file and monitor the status of applications for Single Permits (for work and residence over 90 days); EU Blue Cards; and EU Intracompany Transfer (ICT) permits (both main EU ICT permits and long-term intra-EU mobility permits). Additional details on how the platform works are forthcoming.
- Testing. Stakeholders, including Fragomen, are testing the platform before its official launch to the public.
Impact
The digitization of the immigration platform will streamline immigration processes, facilitate the exchange of information between government agencies and reduce human error.
Background
- Digitization in Belgium. The Regional Employment Ministries in Belgium have previously made electronic filings available, although not through an integrated platform.
- Digitization globally. Digitization has been a priority for many governments across the world, including Canada, France, and Mauritania, as countries seek to make immigration processes faster and more secure. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated many governments' transition to online platforms as these processes can reduce in-person appearances.
Looking ahead
The platform is expected to be expanded to allow the electronic filing and follow-up of applications for Work Permits (for under 90 days) and Single Permits for unlimited duration. Fragomen will provide updates on all developments as the launch of the system for the general public approaches.
This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen or send an email to [email protected].
