The Rise of the ‘Flexi-Job’ in Belgium: Most Workers Combine with Full-Time Employment
Brussels, Belgium – A growing trend in the Belgian labor market reveals that the vast majority of individuals participating in “flexi-jobs” – a unique employment arrangement offering favorable conditions for both employers and employees – are doing so *in addition* to holding a full-time position. This challenges previous assumptions that flexi-jobs were primarily utilized by those seeking to supplement part-time perform or reduce their hours in a primary role. New data from the Rijksdienst voor Sociale Zekerheid (RSZ), Belgium’s Federal Public Service for Social Security, indicates that over 80% of flexi-jobbers are already fully employed elsewhere, signaling a shift in how Belgians approach secondary income and workforce participation.
The flexi-job model, initially conceived to address labor shortages in sectors like hospitality, has expanded significantly in recent years. It allows employers to hire workers under a reduced social security contribution scheme, making it an attractive option for businesses needing flexible staffing solutions. For employees, the appeal lies in the ability to earn additional income with a reduced tax burden, whereas still building up social security rights. The system’s popularity is evidenced by a 16% increase in both flexi-jobbers and available flexi-jobs in the summer of 2025 compared to the previous year, with growth observed across all eligible sectors. According to the RSZ, the hospitality sector remains the largest user of flexi-jobs.
Understanding the Flexi-Job System
A flexi-job is a specific form of employment in Belgium designed to offer flexibility for both employers and employees. Employers benefit from a significantly reduced employer’s social security contribution – currently 28% – compared to standard employment arrangements. Employees, in turn, enjoy a lower tax burden on earnings up to an annual fiscal ceiling of €12,000. As outlined by the Social Security Service, no standard social security contributions are due on the flexi-wage, and employees do not automatically move into a higher tax bracket. Crucially, flexi-jobbers continue to accrue social rights, even with the reduced contributions. Earnings exceeding the €12,000 threshold are subject to standard taxation, but the ceiling does not apply to pensioners.
The sectors eligible for flexi-job arrangements have broadened considerably since their inception in the hospitality industry. Currently, businesses in retail (including bakeries, butcher shops, supermarkets, and hairdressers), the food industry, moving services, bus transportation, real estate, event organization, and driving schools can all utilize flexi-jobs. The complete and up-to-date list of eligible sectors is maintained on the Administrative Instructions page of the Social Security Service website.
Demographic Shifts and the Rise of the ‘Super-Worker’
Recent analysis of flexi-job demographics reveals a nuanced picture of who is participating in this evolving labor model. While traditionally thought to be dominated by younger workers, the most significant growth is now occurring among those over 65, who are combining flexi-jobs with their pensions. Data from the RSZ indicates that flexi-jobbers are slightly more likely to be women (52%) than men (48%), while men tend to work higher volumes of hours. The core demographic remains the 25-39 age group, but the surge in older workers is reshaping the landscape.
Perhaps the most surprising finding is the prevalence of full-time employment among flexi-jobbers. The RSZ reports that 83% of individuals with a flexi-job also hold a primary job that constitutes 95% or more of a full-time work week. This statistic directly contradicts the initial expectation that flexi-jobs would primarily be used to replace hours in existing roles. “With other words: the great majority does his flexi-job next to a fulltime job,” stated Jasper Hubeau, Director-General of the Financial and Statistical Service of the RSZ. This suggests that many Belgians are actively seeking to maximize their income through a combination of full-time and flexi-job employment, rather than reducing their commitment to a single employer.
Debunking Myths About Generation Z and Flexi-Jobs
Contrary to popular belief, the flexi-job phenomenon isn’t solely driven by younger generations. While there was an initial perception that Generation Y and Z were the primary adopters of this work model, combining flexi-jobs with 80% employment, the data tells a different story. According to reporting by VRT News, only 15% of individuals aged 25 to 39 are not employed full-time in their primary job. This indicates that the desire for supplemental income extends across multiple age groups, and the flexi-job model is appealing to a broader demographic than initially anticipated.
Implications for the Belgian Labor Market
The continued growth of flexi-jobs and the trend of combining them with full-time employment have significant implications for the Belgian labor market. It suggests a strong desire among workers to increase their earning potential and a willingness to take on additional responsibilities. This could lead to increased productivity and economic growth, but also raises questions about work-life balance and potential strain on the social security system.
The success of the flexi-job model may also prompt discussions about potential reforms to standard employment contracts and social security contributions. If employers continue to find value in the reduced costs associated with flexi-jobs, there could be pressure to extend similar benefits to other forms of employment. However, any such changes would need to be carefully considered to ensure the long-term sustainability of the social security system.
Looking Ahead
The RSZ is expected to release further data on flexi-job trends in the coming months, providing a more detailed analysis of the demographic and economic factors driving this phenomenon. The government is also considering expanding the eligibility of flexi-jobs to all sectors, a decision anticipated before the summer of 2026.
The flexi-job model represents a dynamic shift in the Belgian labor market, driven by both employer needs and employee aspirations. The fact that the vast majority of flexi-jobbers are already fully employed underscores the importance of supplemental income and the evolving relationship between work and personal finance. As the model continues to evolve, it will be crucial to monitor its impact on the broader economy and ensure that it remains a sustainable and equitable option for both workers and businesses.
Next Update: The Belgian government is scheduled to announce its decision regarding the expansion of flexi-job eligibility to all sectors before the summer of 2026. Stay tuned to World Today Journal for further updates on this developing story.
What are your thoughts on the rise of flexi-jobs? Share your comments below and join the conversation.
Worth a look