Registering in Ghent as an EU worker

What is it about?

EU citizens enjoy the free movement of persons. This allows you to work in Belgium as an employee.

You can start working without registering. To do so, request your BelgianIDpro number.

If you plan to work and live in Belgium for more than 3 months, you must register.

What are the conditions?

• You live at a private address in Ghent.
• You have an employment contract for more than 3 months.
• You are an EU citizen.

How much does it cost?

Opening your file in Ghent is free.

For the residence card, you pay

What do I need?

• Your valid identity card or passport.
• Your proof of employment:
  • Employment contract or employer's certificate (attachment 19bis) for a minimum of 3 months and 12 hours per week, OR
  • Temporary contracts for a minimum of 3 months and 12 hours per week.

What are the steps?

• Register online and follow all steps of the form to complete the application.
• You will receive a confirmation email once we have received your e-form.
• The police will check your address.
• You will receive an invitation (link) by email to apply for your residence card. Using this link, you will make an appointment to apply for your EU card. You will also receive your attachment 19.
• You collect your residence card at the location where you applied for it.
  You do not need to make an appointment for this, except at the Wijkkantoor Rabot. 
  Don't forget your codes!

Are there exceptions?

If your employment contract is valid for less than 3 months or you do not work 12 hours per week, you can only start the procedure as an EU worker by appointment at the service desk.