Belgium is a popular destination for international students seeking high-quality education and cultural diversity. However, studying in Belgium can also be expensive, and many international students may need to work part-time to offset the costs of tuition and living expenses. In this article, we’ll explore the rules and regulations around working while studying in Belgium.
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The rules
International students who hold a valid residence permit for study purposes in Belgium are allowed to work part-time during their studies. According to the Belgian Immigration Office, international students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year, and full-time during scheduled university holidays.
It’s important to note that international students must meet certain requirements to be eligible to work in Belgium. These include having a valid work permit, registering with the local municipality, and holding a valid bank account.
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Types of work
International students in Belgium are allowed to work in a variety of industries, including hospitality, retail, and administration. However, some types of work may be restricted or require additional permissions, such as work in industries that require specific licenses or qualifications, such as healthcare or aviation.
International students are also allowed to work as freelance or self-employed individuals, although it’s important to ensure that any self-employment activities comply with visa regulations and taxation laws.
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Benefits of work experience
Working while studying in Belgium can provide valuable work experience, as well as help to offset the costs of tuition and living expenses. Additionally, gaining work experience in Belgium can be beneficial for international students looking to establish a career in Belgium or gain international work experience that can be valuable in their home country.
However, it’s important to balance work and study commitments carefully, as academic success should remain the primary focus of international students’ time in Belgium. Additionally, international students should ensure that any work they undertake complies with visa regulations and Belgian employment laws.
In conclusion, international students in Belgium are generally allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year, and full-time during scheduled university holidays. Working while studying can provide valuable work experience and help to offset the costs of tuition and living expenses, but it’s important to balance work and study commitments carefully and ensure that any work complies with visa regulations and Belgian employment laws. With the right balance, international students can make the most of their time in Belgium and gain valuable skills and experiences that will benefit them in their future careers.
