Are you looking for part-time jobs in Belgium? The eagerness to experience the rich culture and historical appeal that Belgium holds while contributing to your career is inviting, and of course, this is a chance to get Part-Time Jobs in Belgium For Americans.
Regardless, this appeal holds its own challenges to finding a job in Belgium due to complexities in the job market, languages, or residence/work permits. However, in this article, we will be providing you with an informative guide.
So, without further delay, let’s get started with an overview of Belgium’s job market.
Inside Belgium’s Job Market
The job market in Belgium is very competitive, with an extreme demand for people who can speak more than one language.
More so, the service sector leads the way, then banking, communication, finance, law, media, transport, tourism, distribution, and retail are other areas to be considered.
In addition, most multinational companies conduct business in English; however, it is essential to be proficient in Dutch, French, or German, as it will give you an edge over other job seekers.
To achieve this, enrol in online courses or language-speaking apps in the language of your interest to improve your proficiency. Similarly, aim for these language proficiency levels: A1-Elementary to C2-Proficient.
Belgium Work Permits and Visa Requirements
In Belgium regardless of your status as an American, it is necessary to get or to apply for a Belgium work permit and visa work.
This single permit is a document that will give you the right as a non-European citizen to work and stay in Belgium for more than 90 days, this was implemented in 2019.
More so, the procedure to get a Belgium work permit or visa involves an application from the employer as their new employee.
Additionally, the required documents include a passport, birth certificate, marriage certificate (if applicable), diploma, transcripts and proof of language proficiency.
Leading Sectors and Designations For Part-Time Jobs In Belgium for Americans
Below are the top leading sectors for you to explore in Belgium as an American:
- IT: In this sector, we have software engineers, data analysts, and IT project managers. As an American, you can earn a minimum of 3,079 EUR.
- Construction: American architects, civil engineers, and construction managers in Belgium earn €37,295 and €60,732 yearly.
- Personal Care: nurses, carers, medical assistants
- Education: Teachers, tutors, education coordinators
- Multinational Companies: ING Belgium, BNP Paribas Fortis, KBC Bank
Average Salaries and Benefits
The average monthly salary in Belgium is approximately €3,500 for full-time employees. Also, the top-paying sectors include; the petrochemical industry, activities of head offices, and management consultancy activities.
Similarly, the lowest-paying sectors are accommodation and food service activities, waste collection, and treatment and disposal activities. More so, the benefits you will enjoy in kind include health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and meal vouchers.
Furthermore, this average salary range is greatly dependent on the following:
- Your level of education and skills
- The location of the organisation
- Your level of experience
- The type of industry
- Government policies like taxation and inflation
- Economic health
- Lastly, your gender
All of these are capable of affecting your salary in Belgium as an American; it can cause it to increase or decrease.
Cultural Adaptation and Work Environment
It is important to look at the official languages in Belgium, which include Dutch, French, and German. Also, the cultural differences you will have to prepare for are relatively formal communication, punctuality, and respect for hierarchy.
In Belgium, the working hours range from 38-40 hours per week, with 20 days of paid vacation and 10 national holidays.
Tips for Finding Part-Time Jobs in Belgium
The job hunting process has never been an easy one, however, there are certain tips which would help set you apart from doing what every other job seeker is doing and eventually increase your chances of getting hired. In this section, we will be looking into helpful tips for you to find part-time jobs in Belgium as an American.
The following tips will help you in finding a part-time job in Belgium
1. Improve Your Language Skills:
In one of the sections above, we mentioned the top 3 frequently used languages in Belgium so, learning how to express yourself in those languages will be an added advantage during your job-hunting phase. Dutch, French and German are the key languages you should consider learning if you want to ace your job-hunting process.
2. Join Multinational Companies: Part-Time Jobs in Belgium for Americans
Joining global companies is another efficient strategy for job hunt. Perhaps you don’t have the natural ability to learn other languages; it is another alternative that might benefit you. So, rather than seeking jobs owned by locals, broaden your search to multinational corporations that are actively hiring.
3. Look For Jobs Through Public Employment Services: Actiris, Le Forem, Vdab, And Adg.
Extend your search by using Belgium’s official employment services, such as
- Actiris
- Le Forem
- Vdab
- Adg, etc
4. Tailor Your Resume To The Market
Ensure to not make the same mistake most job seekers are making, which is to submit a generic resume as that is often frowned upon by recruiters. So, in this case, as an American who is looking for part-time jobs in Belgium, be sure to tailor your resume to the Belgium job market and the job role you are vying for as well.
Do you need a professional who can help you write a compelling resume that will attract the right employers to you? If yes, contact us right now to get started!
5. Network Within Your Industry
The necessity and benefits of networking cannot be overstated. Networking is another successful job search approach to consider. Here, you attend industry events or gatherings to pitch yourself. Additionally, you can form professional connections that can benefit you in the long run. Don’t take networking lightly.
Job Search Platforms and Resources
Here are some job search platforms to give you a soft landing for your Belgium job exploration.
1. Job Search Websites:
2. Public Employment Offices:
- Actiris
- Le Forem
- VDAB
- ADG
3. Professional Associations:
American Chamber of Commerce in Belgium, Belgian-American Association
Recommended: Best Websites to Find International Jobs for Americans
Frequently Asked Questions: Part-Time Jobs in Belgium for Americans
Q: Can Americans work part-time in Belgium?
A: Yes, Americans can work part-time with a valid work permit and visa in Belgium.
Q: What are the languages necessary for working in Belgium?
A: Dutch, French, or German language skills provide job prospects.
Q: How do I apply for a work permit in Belgium?
A: Employers must apply on behalf of the employee for the single permit.
Conclusion
Finding a part-time job in Belgium as an American will involve an understanding of the job market, requirements on language, and work permits.
There you have it, this article has set out some guidelines and tips for you to follow in the process of launching your career in Belgium.