There are also a number of labor schemes that can be used to optimize cost and productivity, and the process of acquiring work permits for foreign workers is significantly less complex that that of other EU countries. In 2019, the single permit was introduced, combining work permit with residence permit for foreign employees and reducing administration.

In Belgium and Flanders as a region, working hours can be temporarily shortened or deferred due to a lack of work resulting from economic conditions. If an employer cannot provide work to its employees on a normal basis for economic reasons, the employer is not required to pay wages for days of unemployment. This rule applies to both blue- and white-collar employees.

The process through which a company dismisses an employee in Belgium is significantly less complex as those of many EU countries. A registered letter describing a simple motivation is required, rather than the use of a cantonal judge (Netherlands). The term of the decision depends on the individual’s seniority, and there are no legal costs or delays in judgment.