When Poland joined the European Union, Poles working legally in Belgium became covered by social security and thus became entitled to a state pension. The state pension depends on the number of years worked and earnings; a minimum of 45 years of work is required to receive the full benefit.
Retirement in Belgium – a three-pillar system
As mentioned above, the amount of the state pension depends on the amount of contributions and the period of their payment. Occupational pensions are additionally financed by employers, offering better benefits under pension plans. Private savings, the third pillar, encourage individual saving for retirement.
Retirement in Belgium and retirement age
To apply for a Belgian pension, you must meet several requirements. First of all, you must be at least 65 years old (although there are some exceptions). You must also have worked in Belgium for a sufficient number of years. For an employee pension, you must have at least 45 years of work, while for a self-employed or civil servant pension, at least 40 years of work are required.
Currently, the retirement age in Belgium is 65. According to the government’s plans, it will be gradually increased:
From 2025, it will be increased to 66.
From 2030, it will reach 67.
For people who reached retirement age before these changes were introduced, the rules in force at the time of their retirement will apply.
Temporary (seasonal) work and entitlement to a pension in Belgium
Temporary work in Belgium builds up pension capital, but it must be remembered that if the period of work is shorter than 14040 days (45 years), the benefit paid will be proportionally lower.
Small pension and tax liability in Belgium
According to Belgian tax regulations, even the smallest income must be declared (settled) with the Belgian tax office. The settlement obligation also applies to Belgian pensions, even those amounting to several hundred euros. In the event of non-settlement or delay, the Belgian tax office may impose a penalty ranging from €50 to as much as €1,250, and the tax due may be increased from 10% to as much as 200%!
Documents for the settlement of a pension from Belgium
To meet our clients’ expectations, we have simplified our procedures to the maximum. To prepare your tax return, we need from you:
Settle your pension income and sleep soundly
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