Starting as a self-employed professional in Belgium can seem daunting, but there are various options tailored to your personal and professional situation. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you understand these possibilities and choose the one that suits you best.
Becoming a full-time self-employed professional
This is the most straightforward path to launching your activity. As a full-time self-employed professional, you take on all administrative and tax responsibilities.
Key points :
- You must register with the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (BCE) and obtain a company number. You can apply through any accredited business counter.
- You must affiliate with a social insurance fund and pay quarterly social contributions, calculated based on your income.
- If your activity requires it, you’ll need to activate a VAT number.
This option is ideal if you want to dedicate yourself 100% to your project.
Becoming a complementary self-employed professional
If you already have a primary job (at least part-time), this option allows you to start a self-employed activity alongside your employment.
Advantages :
- Social contributions are reduced compared to a full-time self-employed professional.
- You still benefit from the social advantages linked to your primary job (health insurance, pension, etc.).
Exceptions : Certain teachers or public sector contractors may qualify for this status under certain conditions.
Starting a company (SRL, SComm, etc.)
If you plan to collaborate with partners or develop a larger-scale project, starting a company might be the best option. The most common form is the SRL (Private Limited Company or Société à Responsabilités Limitées in French).
Advantages :
- Your liability is limited to your financial contributions (depending on the structure).
- A corporate structure can appear more credible to investors or partners.
Points to consider :
- Startup costs include a financial plan, notary fees (for SRL), and various administrative expenses (ranging between €1,500 and €3,000).
- Strict accounting management is mandatory.
Using JobYourself (Brussels)
For Brussels residents who are job seekers or employed part-time at most, JobYourself offers an interesting solution. This organization lets you test your activity while keeping unemployment benefits.
How it works:
- Present your project to JobYourself, which evaluates its viability.
- If approved, you can start invoicing your services without immediately registering as self-employed.
- You continue to receive unemployment benefits during this test phase.
This is an excellent way to reduce the financial risks of launching your project.
Using the Tremplin-indépendants Status
This status allows job seekers to become complementary self-employed professionals while continuing to receive unemployment benefits for a limited period.
Conditions :
- You must respect an annual income cap.
- You must prove that your activity remains secondary to your job search.
This status is ideal for those who want to test their project while enjoying financial security.
Using Smart Belgium or Tentoo
Smart and Tentoo allow you to invoice your services without needing a self-employed status.
You remain an employee and enjoy associated social benefits.
How it works:
- Smart or Tentoo acts as your employer.
- You invoice through their platform, and they manage administrative aspects (social charges, taxes, etc.).
This option is often used by artists, freelancers, or consultants starting their activities.
Leveraging support services
Organizations like Local Economy Offices (GEL) or hub.brussels offer free or low-cost support to help you structure your project.
Services offered :
- Assistance in drafting a business plan.
- Training on administrative and financial aspects.
- Networking opportunities with investors or partners.
These services can be combined with any of the above options to maximize your chances of success.
Conclusion: which option to choose?
The best choice depends on your personal situation, risk appetite, and financial needs. You can also combine different options.
- If you want to test your project without risks, JobYourself or the Tremplin-indépendants are good options.
- If you plan to work in a team or raise funds, starting a company might be ideal.
- For more occasional projects, Smart or Tentoo offer flexible and straightforward solutions.
Whatever you decide, take the time to inform yourself and, if needed, seek professional guidance.
Starting a business is a big step, but with the right resources, you can move forward confidently.
Need more advice on managing your management company or starting your independent business?
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written by Thimothée Remy
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