Wallonia, Belgium Updates Shortage Occupation List for Foreign Workers

• Wallonia has updated its shortage occupation list, allowing employers to sponsor certain non-EU nationals for eligible roles from Oct. 1, 2026 through Sept. 30, 2027, subject to applicable work authorization requirements.  

Shortage Occupation List for Foreign Workers 

The Walloon Public Service published an updated list of shortage occupations that supports the employment of certain third-country (non-EU) nationals in the French-speaking region of Belgium. The revised list took effect on Oct. 1, 2026 and will remain valid through Sept. 30, 2027.  

Under Wallonia’s framework, employers may recruit a non-EU national when no suitable jobseeker is available to fill the position within a reasonable period, including after appropriate training opportunities have been considered. Additional eligibility and work authorization requirements continue to apply.  

The updated shortage occupation list includes roles across 31 sectors experiencing persistent labor shortages. 

Important Considerations for Employers 

• The shortage occupation list applies specifically to the admission of third-country nationals for work in Wallonia’s French-speaking region.  
• Employers must still satisfy applicable work permit and employment authorization requirements.  
• The list should not be confused with the broader shortage and critical occupations list published by Le Forem, which serves a different purpose. 

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