Belgium is preparing for a major reform to its labour law updates in recent years. Starting 1 January 2026, new rules will apply to employment contracts signed from that date onward, introducing changes to notice periods, night work regulations, and voluntary overtime allowances. These reforms aim to modernise the labour market, improve flexibility for businesses, and maintain worker protections. The changes were announced as part of the government’s broader employment strategy and are being implemented through updates to Royal Decrees and labour regulations published by the Federal Public Service Employment, Labour and Social Dialogue (FPS Employment).
Notice Periods Capped at 52 Weeks
Under current Belgian law, notice periods for employer-initiated terminations can extend well beyond a year for long-serving employees. From 2026, the government will cap notice periods at 52 weeks for new contracts. This means that regardless of seniority, employers will not be required to provide more than one year of notice. Existing contracts will remain under the current rules.
Night Work Ban Lifted for Certain Sectors
Belgium traditionally prohibits night work between 20:00 and 06:00, except for sectors explicitly authorised by law or Royal Decree. FPS Employment confirms that from 2026, the general ban on night work will be abolished for specific sectors, including distribution and e-commerce. Work between midnight and 05:00 will still be classified as night work, requiring compliance with health and safety measures and collective agreements.
Increased Voluntary Overtime
The government also plans to expand voluntary overtime allowances significantly. Employees will be able to perform up to 360 hours of voluntary overtime annually, with 240 hours exempt from tax and social security contributions. In hospitality, the limit will rise to 450 hours, with 360 hours benefiting from the same exemptions. These arrangements require a written agreement between employer and employee.
Changes that Matter
These reforms are designed to make Belgium’s labour market more adaptable to modern business needs, especially in sectors like logistics and e-commerce that require flexible scheduling. Employers should start preparing now by reviewing internal policies, updating employment handbooks, and ensuring compliance with health and safety obligations for night work.
Leap29 Perspective
“Belgium is finally catching up with the realities of modern work. These reforms—capping notice periods, expanding overtime, and easing night work rules—give businesses the flexibility they need to grow while still protecting employees. It feels like a win-win: companies can adapt to global competition, and workers gain more opportunities for extra income. If implemented responsibly, this could strengthen Belgium’s economy and create a more dynamic job market” Simon Duff – Director Leap29
