Belgium to Cut Unemployment Benefits for Nearly 43,000
After an initial wave of letters was sent out in September, the National Employment Office (RVA/ONEM) is now sending out the next batch of notification letters about the end of unemployment benefits. This affects nearly 43,000 people, who will no longer be entitled to these benefits from 1 March 2026, reports 24brussels.
The federal government has approved a reform of unemployment benefits that restricts entitlement over time, depending on the duration of unemployment and employment history.
The first group of affected individuals received warning letters in September, comprising 10,700 job seekers with at least 20 years of full unemployment, who will lose their benefits starting 1 January 2026. Additionally, 18,100 jobseekers receiving integration benefits, aimed at young people yet to enter the workforce, are also impacted.
The subsequent letters will be mailed starting Monday and delivered via the digital eBox from Saturday. This notification will reach jobseekers with between 8 and 20 years of full unemployment experience during their careers.
Specifically, 42,846 individuals will be affected: 9,795 in the Flemish Region, 13,282 in the Brussels-Capital Region, 19,600 in Wallonia, 167 in the German-speaking Community, and two for whom information is unavailable or who reside abroad. These individuals will lose their unemployment entitlement on 1 March 2026.
Further letters are anticipated in mid-November for jobseekers with fewer than 8 years of unemployment, who will see their benefits cut on 1 April 2026.
Illustration © BELGA PHOTO MAXIME ASSELBERGHS
