Belgium: Request for certificates for increased thematic investment deduction now available

The Law of May 12, 2024, reformed the investment deduction, allowing taxpayers to claim increased deductions of 30% or 40% (for small companies) for specific investments acquired or created starting January 1, 2025. These themes include energy efficiency and renewable energy, zero-carbon transport, environmentally friendly investments, and digital investments. At the end of 2024, lists of qualifying investments were published for each theme.

Taxpayers must apply for a certificate within three months after the end of the taxable period in which the fixed assets were acquired or created. For multi-year investments, an investment certificate is required, which must be attached to the income tax return.

For the energy and environmental themes, a cooperation agreement between the federal government and regions was necessary to designate the competent authority. Due to delays, an extension was granted until June 30, 2026, for investments made between January 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026.

Pending the finalization of the cooperation agreement, taxpayers can now apply for certificates for energy-related investments in the Flemish Region through Flemish Energy and Climate Agency (VEKA). Certificates for environmental investments, specifically those related to CO₂ reduction, will soon also be available through VEKA. Applications must include a technical description, an energy study (no older than four years), and an Excel template calculating the payback period and internal rate of return. Certificates will only be issued after the cooperation agreement takes effect.

For the transport theme, certificates can already be requested from the Federal Public Service (FPS) Mobility and Transport, with procedures varying by transport type (rail, road, or water).

Read a May 2026 report prepared by the KPMG member firm in Belgium