Registering in Ghent as an EU self-employed worker
If you are self-employed in Ghent, you need to register. Read more about it here.
What is it about?
As an EU citizen, you can work as a self-employed person. This can take different forms: as a manager, director, working partner, self-employed assistant, etc. If you plan to live and work in Belgium for more than 3 months, you must register.
What are the conditions?
- You live at a private address in Ghent.
- You are registered as self-employed.
- You are an EU citizen.
How much does it cost?
Starting your file is free.
For the residence card, you pay
| Standard procedure | 30 euro |
| Urgent procedure | 133 euro |
What do I need?
- Your valid identity card or passport
- A recent complete extract from the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises OR a certificate of exemption
- Proof of affiliation with a social security fund for the self-employed. If your registration is in order, this document will be sent directly to the city council.
What are the steps?
- Make an appointment at Migration.
- At the appointment, you will receive a proof of registration.
- The police will verify your address.
- You will receive an email invitation (link) to apply for your residence card or to submit additional proof of your self-employed activity. You can make an appointment through this link.
- Collect your residence card from the location where you applied for it. You don’t need an appointment for this, except at the Wijkkantoor Rabot. Don't forget your PIN and PUK codes!
Are there any exceptions?
Are you an assistant to a business and under 20 years old? You cannot join a social security fund. Provide a certificate proving your exemption along with an extract from the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises.