Belgium: Mandatory Online Submission of Certain Permit Applications Forthcoming

Update – May 4, 2026: As a transition measure, the Flanders Region will continue to accept email-based applications until September 1, 2026.

April 17, 2026: Effective May 1, 2026, short-work permit and commuter permit applications will need to be submitted via the digital government platform (no other submission method will be allowed). Currently, such applications are submitted by email to the competent authorities. A transition period where applicants will be able to submit their applications by email will apply in the Walloon region until August 31, 2026. The situation regarding any transition period in the other two regions is uncertain.  

This change is expected to enable better tracking and quicker identification of admissibility issues, while reducing the risk of lost emails or unclear filing dates. Employers, or their authorized agents, will need valid digital access credentials and should allow sufficient time to set up the required mandates in advance. 

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen.