Menu
Expat.com

PhD years and Permanent Residency in Belgium

Post new topic

Suzie0

Hi everyone!

My question is regarding permanent residency (I know there are some posts about it but weren't so clear to me).

So, I started my phd studies in Belgium in 2018. In 2019, I started working as a full-time teaching assistant and my salary was given under scholarship as it is in many others. After four years, the university cannot pay you as a phd student and switch your contract to scientific employee. I got a single permit for 2 years that expires end of this year. Overall, I have been officially residing in Belgium for 7 years. The first year is self paid PhD student and 6 years of paid assistant, of which 2 years under single permit.

Now, I want to obtain a permanent residency but I am confused at the moment.

I know you need to reside in belgium for 5 years but residing while working (like under single permit) or my case also counts for it?


I highly appreciate any guidance or experience on this matter!


Best.

See also

Traveling to BelgiumL card application waiting time.L card application was rejected because of my expat work permitRenewal of single permitSingle permit processing 2025
Mai Rose

Hi,


Since I was also a student, I think Commune/Ibz may not know that you worked as a full-time teaching assistant. They likely considered your "proof of income" as a scholarship for your PhD.


You can check the type of IDs granted each year to PhD students by going to "My Profile."

That's just my thought—each case may be different.


Best

Mai

Articles to help you in your expat project in Belgium

  • A guide to Brussels' neighbourhoods
    A guide to Brussels' neighbourhoods

    A very safe and laid-back city to live and work in, Brussels has many different sides for expats and tourists to ...

  • Doing an internship in Belgium
    Doing an internship in Belgium

    Students usually have to do an internship to validate their academic training. What's the process of doing an ...

  • Buying a car in Belgium
    Buying a car in Belgium

    Some formalities apply when buying a vehicle in Belgium, both before and after the sale. Here's what to expect.

  • Buying property in Brussels
    Buying property in Brussels

    Compared with other European capitals, buying property in Brussels is very affordable. Consequently, it's ...

  • Buying a property in Belgium
    Buying a property in Belgium

    The real estate in Belgium has the reputation of being relatively cheaper than its neighbors. We'll give you ...

  • Lifestyle in Belgium
    Lifestyle in Belgium

    Belgium is a diverse country that's very friendly with newcomers. What about its traditions, festivities, and ...

  • How to make new friends in Brussels
    How to make new friends in Brussels

    As Brussels is home to such an international crowd, there are many ways newcomers to the city can make friends and ...

  • Driving in Belgium
    Driving in Belgium

    If you're moving to Belgium, you might be interested in learning about getting a driver's license. Read on ...

All of Belgium's guide articles