Belgium, Unknown – January 16, 2026 — GHENT, Belgium — Flemish Minister for Economy and Innovation Caroline Prévot has introduced a targeted enhancement to Belgium’s expat tax regime, offering a 35% tax-free allowance on relocation expenses specifically tailored for Ghent’s burgeoning technology sector. This initiative, effective retroactively from 1 January 2025, lowers the eligibility threshold to a minimum gross annual salary of €70,000 and removes previous salary caps, positioning the historic city as a prime destination for global tech talent.
The measure builds on recent federal tax reforms approved by the Belgian Parliament on 12 December 2025 and published on 30 December 2025, which broadened access to the special expat regime nationwide. Prévot, representing the Flemish regional government, has localised these benefits through a dedicated Ghent Tech Expat Programme, aiming to draw 5,000 skilled professionals in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and software development by July 2026. “Ghent’s vibrant ecosystem of universities, startups, and innovation hubs is ready to welcome the world’s brightest minds,” Prévot stated during a press conference at the Ghent Technology Park on Thursday. “This boost will fuel sustainable growth, create high-quality jobs, and strengthen our position in Europe’s digital economy.”
Under the programme, eligible expatriates receive a lump-sum reimbursement of up to 35% of their remuneration free from income tax, a rise from the prior 30% limit. This adjustment, combined with the lowered salary entry point, opens doors for mid-career innovators previously excluded by stricter criteria. Those who began employment in Belgium from 1 January 2025 can apply within three months of the law’s gazette publication, ensuring swift integration. Local authorities anticipate this will complement Ghent’s existing infrastructure, including the Ghent University Hospital’s biotech cluster and IMEC’s nearby microelectronics research centre, fostering collaborative projects that drive progress.
Business leaders have welcomed the development as a constructive step forward. Hilde Crevits, CEO of Flanders Investment & Trade, highlighted the potential for economic uplift. “By streamlining incentives, we are empowering companies to relocate teams effortlessly, sparking innovation that benefits communities across Flanders,” she noted. Early projections from the Flemish Department of Economy suggest the influx could generate €450 million in annual economic activity, supporting 2,000 indirect jobs in services and housing while enhancing Ghent’s cultural fabric through diverse contributions.
The initiative aligns seamlessly with broader Flemish strategies to nurture tech ecosystems. Ghent, already home to over 300 startups and a thriving port-digitalisation hub, will host dedicated expat welcome centres launching in March 2026. These facilities will offer streamlined administrative support, language courses, and family integration services, easing transitions for professionals and their dependents. Educational partnerships with Ghent University will provide scholarships for expatriate children, promoting long-term community ties.
Experts point to the programme’s role in addressing talent shortages amid Europe’s competitive landscape. “This targeted approach not only attracts expertise but cultivates a pipeline of innovation that will propel Ghent into the forefront of sustainable technologies,” said Pieter De Cock, director of the Ghent Tech Park. Recent federal clarifications, such as full per-diem allowances for short business trips, further simplify cross-border operations, allowing firms to focus on growth rather than bureaucracy.
Community responses underscore the positive momentum. Local chambers of commerce report heightened interest from Asian and North American tech firms, with initial applications surpassing expectations. Housing associations are expanding family-friendly options in Ghent’s green neighbourhoods, while cultural organisations prepare multilingual events to celebrate newcomers. “This is about building bridges and shared prosperity,” remarked Ghent Mayor Elke Sleurs, emphasising collaborative efforts between regional and municipal levels.
Looking ahead, the Flemish government plans quarterly progress reviews, with milestones tied to the July 2026 target. Investments in high-speed rail links and expanded co-working spaces will support the anticipated arrivals, ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with ambition. By embedding these tax benefits within a holistic support framework, Minister Prévot’s vision promises enduring advancements for Ghent’s tech landscape and Flanders’ economy.
This development reflects ongoing commitment to progressive policies that harness global talent for local benefit, marking a milestone in Belgium’s journey toward inclusive innovation.
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