Migrant workers holding a single permit (61/25-6, § 4 of the Immigration Act) can apply for a B card after five years of employment in Belgium to extend their stay.
No Automatic Right to a B Card
Although the five-year period starts from the issuance of the first residence card (e.g., an A card), this does not mean that the B card is automatically granted once this period ends. The Immigration Office (DVZ/OE) has a binding authority, meaning that the card can only be issued after an individual assessment of the worker’s situation.
The Process Can Take More Than Five Years
In practice, obtaining a B card may take longer than five years, depending on several factors, such as:
✔️ Administrative processing times at the Immigration Office
✔️ The specific situation of the migrant worker
✔️ Possible additional requirements or documents
Conclusion
Applying for a B card is not an automatic process, and waiting times may vary. Migrant workers should keep this in mind and be well-informed about their rights and the potential duration of the procedure.
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