Worker registered in the merchant navy pool

If the non-European worker is registered as a seaman in the Belgian merchant navy pool, the type of authorisation depends on the duration of the employment in Belgium.

(Art. 18, § 2, 8° DGBCR, 16 May 2024)

The seaman will work in Belgium for more than 90 days.

If the worker is staying in Belgium:

Apply for a single permit

If the worker is not living in Belgium (cross-border commuter):

You do not need to ask Brussels Economy and Employment for an authorisation to work (automatic exemption).

The seaman will work in Belgium for 90 days at most.

You do not need to ask Brussels Economy and Employment for an authorisation to work (automatic exemption, during 90 days at most, over a period of 180 days).

Does this not apply to you?

Check the page "Other cases"

Regulation

Royal decree dated 6 June 2019 amending the Royal decree dated 8 October 1981 concerning access to the country, the residence, the location and expulsion of foreign nationals

Royal decree dated 2 September 2018 implementing the law dated 9 May 2018 with regard to the employment of foreign nationals in a specific residence situation

Notice concerning personal data treatment by and or for the SPRB-GOB (.pdf)