Expert Info
on 31 Oct 2013
Hi! I need to know if I have any chances at all to get a job as a nurse in
Belgium. I am a registered pediatric nurse in Sweden and have just moved to
Brussels since my fiance got a job here. The problem is that I can not speak
French or Dutch. Can anyone help me?
According to a report by the EU, the nursing in Belgium is basically split in three, respectively serving the French, Flemish and German communities. Aside from linguistically, this has to some extent manifested itself in terms of training, with French nurses being trained differently from Flemish nurses. "German nursing", for want of a better description, tends towards the French system.
This is relevant because nurses in Belgium have to register within one of ten provinces. These will largely be the same, but will differ in terms of the dominant language and there may be some differences between standard practice.
Before you get to this stage, however, you will have to apply to the Ministry of Public Health, which is done via the NARIC website. This will come with a fee, but once that's done, should the ministry approve your application, you should have a clearer idea of your prospects.
It will be vital for you to learn either French or Flemish and, if it's possible, it may be an idea to get at least some proficiency in either before applying as it will greatly strengthen your application.
In the meantime, have a look at our Working in Belgium, Work Permits for Belgium and Healthcare in Belgium sections for some general information.
Best of luck,
Xavier