Brussels, Belgium – Belgium’s federal government is set to ease restrictions on student employment, increasing the annual work hour limit and lowering the minimum age for student jobs.
The Social Affairs Committee has approved a bill allowing students to work up to 650 hours per year, up from the previous 600-hour limit, while reducing the minimum work age from 16 to 15 starting next summer.
The decision builds on previous temporary measures that raised the student work hour limit from 475 to 600 hours in 2023. The new bill, spearheaded by the right-wing New Flemish Alliance (N-VA) and backed by both majority and opposition parties, cements these changes into law.
Additionally, the earnings threshold before students lose their dependent tax status will be doubled to 6,840 euros annually, providing greater financial flexibility for student workers.
N-VA faction leader Axel Ronse praised the initiative, calling it beneficial for both students and employers.
“With a tight labour market, students provide valuable support to businesses struggling with staff shortages, particularly in sectors like hospitality,” he said.
He further emphasized that allowing students to work more hours would help them gain practical experience while earning a steady income.
The bill also accelerates the government’s plan to lower the student work age to 15, a move that Employment Minister David Clarinval (MR/liberal) confirmed would be finalized before the summer.
Speaking to La Libre, Clarinval assured that existing safety regulations would remain in place to protect young workers.
“These adjustments do not compromise safety standards; rather, they provide more opportunities for young people to integrate into the workforce earlier,” he stated.
The changes are part of the new government’s broader strategy to reduce dependency on social security by encouraging both young people and older workers to contribute more actively to the labour market.
The coalition has also announced plans to expand the flexi-job system, which enables workers to take on secondary employment under tax-friendly conditions.
Business leaders and industry representatives have welcomed the proposed measures, particularly in light of ongoing labour shortages. The hospitality and retail sectors, which heavily rely on student workers, have been particularly affected by workforce deficits.
“This initiative is crucial in helping us maintain service levels, especially during peak seasons,” noted a spokesperson for Horeca Vlaanderen, the Flemish hospitality federation.
However, some labour unions and youth advocacy groups have raised concerns about potential exploitation and the impact on students’ academic performance.
The General Federation of Belgian Labour (FGTB) has cautioned against overburdening young workers and called for stricter enforcement of labour protections.
“While providing work opportunities is important, we must ensure that education remains the top priority for students,” said an FGTB representative.
The bill will now move to the full chamber for further debate before receiving final approval. If passed, the new rules are expected to take effect in the coming months, marking a significant shift in Belgium’s approach to student employment and workforce participation.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
