Belgium Updates Rules for Cross-Border Workers

• Belgium has introduced new regulations for cross-border workers, replacing rules dating back to 1981 and establishing new requirements for workers residing in neighboring countries and the United Kingdom. 

Rules for Cross-Border Workers 

Belgium’s Immigration Office has announced new regulations for cross-border workers that took effect in August 2026.  

According to the Immigration Office, the previous cross-border worker regulations dated back to 1981 and no longer reflected current cross-border employment arrangements. New rules took effect the day after their publication in the Belgian Official Gazette.  

What Is Changing?

The government announcement provides limited information on the practical implementation of the new framework. As a result, details regarding compliance under the new regime remain limited.  

At this stage, the government has confirmed only a limited number of changes, including the transition period for Annex 15 holders residing in neighboring countries and the new D visa requirement for U.K.-based cross-border workers. 

Transition Period for Neighboring Countries 

Cross-border workers residing in Germany, France, Luxembourg or the Netherlands who currently hold an Annex 15 permit will receive a 12-month grace period to comply with the new regulations.  

Impact on U.K.-Based Cross-Border Workers 

The most significant confirmed change applies to workers residing in the United Kingdom (U.K.). The Immigration Office advises these individuals to apply for a long-stay D visa through the Belgian Embassy in London as soon as possible. Under the new framework, U.K.-based cross-border workers will no longer be permitted to enter Belgium using an Annex 15 permit.  

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