French nationals become largest group of foreign workers in Belgium
New Belgian employment statistics highlight a significant rise in French employees amid declining numbers from other countries
Recent Belgian employment data indicate that French citizens now make up the largest group of foreign workers in Belgium. As of June 30, 2024, there were 39,252 French employees working in the country, showing a marked increase over previous years. This boost comes as the proportion of workers from other countries has decreased, making the presence of French nationals even more noticeable.
A significant share of these French workers are employed in southern Belgian regions such as Hainaut, Namur, and Luxembourg province. Over the past five years, French nationals have been the only group of foreign employees to post continuous growth in the Belgian workforce. In contrast, there has been a notable decline in the number of Dutch employees, further strengthening the dominance of French workers.
In addition, while fewer Belgians are choosing to work abroad, Luxembourg remains the top destination for those who do. The number of Belgians working in Luxembourg has grown by nine percent, reflecting strong cross-border economic ties despite broader shifts in foreign employment patterns within Belgium.
