Working in the private sector

The relationship between private sector employees and employers is governed by an employment contract. Employees in Belgium are further divided into two categories: 'ouvriers' and 'employés'. The former are what are informally known as ‘blue-collar workers’ in English; the latter as ‘white-collar workers’. The two categories of workers have slightly different employment conditions in terms of probationary period, notice period, temporary layoffs, holiday bonuses and wage or salary payment.

For Opens in new windowmore information on employment contracts (FR/NL) see the employment portal Belgium.be

Private sector employers must comply with federal labour law and the collective bargaining agreements, which are concluded by sector.

To find out more about Opens in new windowemployment conditions (FR/NL), visit the website of the FPS Employment, Labour and Social Dialogue