In Belgium, salaries are based on age and with a premium income, you are likely to pay high taxes.
Belgium is one of the countries that has greatly experienced the IT boom; in terms of work distribution, systems integration accounts for about 20% of the IT market. At present, there are 3,000 Belgium-based computer companies, in which 431 operate in consulting work and a further 1,759 focus on software development.
Aside from the exponential growth in IT, Belgium also has large construction and mechanical engineering industries. The construction industry comprises a workforce of about 7% of the working population (Source: Belgian Finance Department report), and accounts for 10% of the country's GDP.
Another sector that is flourishing is the financial sector, despite the global gloom. Belgium broke new ground on electronic payment systems that are used around the world today. With more than 120 banks, Belgium remains the center for international banking and finance in Europe.
Employers in Belgium also welcome applicants with strong sales or marketing experience, but exceptional language skills is the key to securing a job in this particular field. Job candidates who can speak two or more languages are in for a promising career.
Job seekers in Belgium should note that a cover letter must be handwritten.
Foreigners make up 9% of the general population. This has resulted in a tightening of immigration laws. However, employment prospects in Belgium still attract foreign residents to work and live in Belgium, especially as the working conditions can be rewarding; labor laws give employees extensive rights after 12 months of continuous employment.
Under the EU's freedom of movement provisions, EU nationals have the right to work in Belgium, as long as employees (after securing a job contract) register with the appropriate authorities and obtain a residence permit.
For Non-EU nationals, the potential employer must get the approval of the local labor or employment office in order to hire a non-EU foreigner. A work permit is issued for a specific job for a unique employer. Therefore, a job change in Belgium would mean a new work permit would need to be applied for.
In order to secure legal residency in Belgium, you need a work permit (or professional card), a residence visa (exemptions do exist) applied for at the Belgian embassy in your home country, and a Belgian residence card applied for from the local communal authorities.
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