According to the report, at the end of 2024, more than 170.000 jobs were vacant across Belgium, with shortages affecting many sectors and qualification levels. Employers often rely on activating the existing workforce, encouraging mobility between regions, and attracting workers from other EU countries to fill the gap. Labour migration from outside the EU also plays a role, and the report provides insights into this dimension.

The figures show that labour migration from outside the EU slightly decreased in 2024, with fewer long-stay visas and first single permits being issued compared with 2023. In total, 7.874 long-stay visas were granted to third-country nationals for professional reasons, 9% fewer than in 2023. A decrease is also observed in the number of limited-duration single permits issued following a first application. Overall, temporary postings to Belgium fell by 2% in 2024 compared with 2023. However, the share of third-country nationals among these postings continued to grow, reaching 24% in 2024, up from 9% in 2017.

The report also highlights the growing importance of student migration. In 2024, a record 11.582 long-stay visas were issued for study purposes, up 7% on the previous year. The main countries of origin were China, Morocco, Cameroon, Turkey and Pakistan.

For more detailed information, please read the press release in French or in Dutch and consult the thematic report attached below.