Belgium: Brussels Shortage Occupation List 2025: Key Updates and Implications

Effective July 1, 2025, the Brussels Capital Region has updated its shortage occupation list, reducing the number of eligible professions from 82 to 81. Published annually by Actiris, the Brussels Employment and Training Observatory, this list identifies high-demand jobs facing critical labor shortages, allowing employers to bypass labor market testing when hiring foreign workers. Below, we break down the 2025 Brussels Shortage Occupation List, its key changes, and what it means for employers and job seekers.

Key Changes to the 2025 Brussels Shortage Occupation List

Reduction in Sales Sector Roles

The sales sector has seen a major reduction, with only two roles remaining on the Brussels shortage list, down from nine. This suggests either an increase in local jobseekers or decreased demand for certain sales positions. Employers hiring for non-listed sales roles must now follow standard labor market testing rules, including a 5-week vacancy posting via Actiris.

Removal of Personal Services Sector Roles

Several personal services jobs, such as home cleaners, hairdressers, and public safety officers, have been removed from the shortage list. However, security guards remain, indicating ongoing demand. Employers in this sector must now comply with stricter hiring procedures.

Addition of New IT Professions

To address growing tech talent shortages, new IT roles have been added to the Brussels shortage occupation list 2025. While specific jobs weren’t detailed, this aligns with Belgium’s broader demand for IT specialists, particularly in cybersecurity, software development, and database management.

No Transition Period for Pending Applications

There is no official guidance on whether applications submitted before July 1, 2025, for now-removed roles will be processed under previous rules. Employers and workers should monitor updates from Actiris or consult immigration experts.

Implications for Employers and Foreign Workers

Simplified Hiring for Shortage Occupations

Jobs on the Brussels shortage list still benefit from labor market test exemptions, speeding up hiring for high-demand roles. EU Blue Card holders in IT can now qualify based on 3 years of experience instead of formal degrees.

Stricter Rules for Non-Listed Jobs

For roles no longer on the list, employers must:

• Advertise jobs via Actiris for 5 weeks.

• Justify hiring foreign workers over locals.This could delay hiring for sectors like sales and personal services.

Flexibility for EU Blue Card Holders

Since October 2024, EU Blue Card holders in Brussels can:

• Change employers after 12 months with minimal restrictions.

• Qualify for IT roles without a degree if they have sufficient experience.

Uncertainty for Pending Applications

The lack of a transition period may affect pending work permit applications. Employers should verify requirements with Brussels immigration authorities.

Brussels Labor Market Trends and Future Outlook

Belgium faces significant labor shortages, ranking 6th in Europe for unfilled jobs. Key sectors struggling to find workers include:

• IT & Cybersecurity (10,000+ unfilled roles).

• Healthcare (aging workforce, nurse shortages).

• Construction & Engineering (20% demand gap).

The Brussels shortage occupation list helps guide economic migration, training programs, and recruitment strategies. For foreign workers, inclusion means faster work permits and better job prospects.

Conclusion

The 2025 Brussels Shortage Occupation List reflects shifting labor demands, with IT roles gaining priority while sales and personal service jobs decline. Employers must adapt to new hiring rules, while foreign workers should verify if their profession remains eligible.

For official details, check the Actiris Brussels Shortage Occupation List 2025.

Need help with work visas? Visit visasupdate.com for expert guidance.