Belgium is increasing certain government fees linked to immigration. The first change is an increase, as of 1 July 2026, of the Visa D handling fee charged by the Federal Immigration Office. The second is the introduction by the Flanders Region of a retribution due when applying for a Single Permit for employment in the Flanders Region.1,2,3
WHY THIS MATTERS
These changes could directly impact Visa applicants, employers, and HR global mobility teams, requiring adjustments to budgets, compliance strategies, and planning for international hiring and assignments. Understanding these changes is essential to avoid unexpected costs and maintain smooth immigration processes.
Key Highlights
Belgian Federal Authorities Increase Visa D Fee
Visa D overview
The Visa D is a national Visa for non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals who move to Belgium and intend to stay for more than 90 days. It is typically required for purposes such as employment, studies, or family reunification. Exceptions may apply.
Visa D handling fee increase
- Effective 1 July 2026, the Visa handling fee for Visa applications has increased from EUR 180 to EUR 250.
- The increased Visa handling fee will apply to all Visa D applications submitted on or after that date. Importantly, applicants with appointments scheduled after 30 June 2026 will be required to pay the new fee of EUR 250, regardless of when their appointment was booked.
- If the Visa handling fee was paid before the increase was announced and the applicant’s appointment is scheduled on or after 1 July 2026, the applicant will be required to pay the additional difference up to the new EUR 250 fee.
Flanders Region Introduces Retribution For Single Permits
Single Permit overview
The Single Permit is a combined work and residence permit for non-EU/EEA/Swiss nationals that allows them to work and stay for more than 90 days. Generally, the legal employer must apply for the permit.
New retribution
- Starting 1 September 2026, the Flanders Region introduces a EUR 180 retribution per Single Permit application for employment in the Flanders Region.
- The retribution will, in principle, be indexed yearly starting 1 January 2027.
- It applies to both first applications and renewals. Processing of a Single Permit application will only begin once the payment has been received.
- This fee is, in principle, due by the employer. For Single Permits of indefinite duration, the fee is required to be paid by the employee.
- The regional retribution is due in addition to applicable Federal immigration fees.
- Detailed payment modalities are yet to be communicated.
- It is noteworthy noting that the Brussels‑Capital and Walloon Region have not yet introduced a similar retribution.
KPMG INSIGHTS
The changes to Belgium’s immigration fees underscore the importance of proactive planning for international hiring and assignments combined with a need to stay well informed on the rapidly changing regulations.
Employers and HR mobility teams should consider:
- Adjusting budgets
- Informing employees
- Monitoring future guidance on the Flanders Regional retribution payment modalities
- Ensuring internal processes are updated
- Ensuring timely payment of applicable fees to prevent delays in Visa and Single Permit application processing.
Staying updated on immigration requirements is vital for compliance, business continuity and smooth relocation processes.
If assignees and/or their programme managers have any questions or concerns about the scope of the update, its application and potential impacts, and appropriate next steps, they should consult with their qualified professional or a member of the Immigration team with KPMG in Belgium (see the Contacts section).
ENDNOTES:
1 Belgische Federale Overheidsdiensten (in Dutch), “Besluit van de Vlaamse Regering tot wijziging van het besluit van de Vlaamse Regering van 7 december 2018 houdende uitvoering van de wet van 30 april 1999 betreffende de tewerkstelling van buitenlandse werknemers,” published on 28 November 2025.
2 Belgische Federale Overheidsdiensten (in Dutch), “Ministerieel besluit tot bepaling van het bedrag van de retributie, vermeld in artikel 81/1 van het besluit van de Vlaamse Regering van 7 december 2018 houdende uitvoering van de wet van 30 april 1999 betreffende de tewerkstelling van buitenlandse werknemers,” published on 8 July 2026.
3 For more details on Visa fees, please check, IBZ.
Contacts
Disclaimer
* Please note the KPMG International member firm in the United States does not provide immigration or labour law services. However, KPMG Law LLP in Canada can assist clients with U.S. immigration matters.
The information contained in this newsletter was submitted by the KPMG International member firm in Belgium.
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