Apply for Housemaid and Nanny Jobs in Belgium from Nigeria 2025/2026

Apply for Housemaid and Nanny Jobs in Belgium from Nigeria 2025/2026

Introduction

Belgium’s diverse society and busy urban life have created a strong demand for household support workers and childcare providers. From Brussels’ diplomatic quarter to the growing suburbs of Antwerp and Ghent, families and agencies are searching for reliable housemaids and nannies. Many are open to recruiting non-EU citizens, including Nigerians, when they cannot find enough local staff.

This comprehensive article explains how Nigerians can apply for housemaid and nanny jobs in Belgium, covering job roles, visa and work permit procedures, salary expectations, application channels, and tips to avoid scams.

Understanding the Role: Housemaid and Nanny Work in Belgium

In Belgium, “housemaid” and “nanny” may overlap but usually differ slightly:

1. Housemaid – focuses on cleaning, laundry, cooking assistance, household organisation, errands.

2. Nanny – focuses on childcare: feeding, bathing, dressing, school runs, homework help, creative play.

Some jobs combine both roles (especially live-in arrangements). Tasks should be clearly described in your contract.

Why Belgium Recruits Foreign Housemaids and Nannies

1. Labour shortage: Fewer Belgians choose household work as a career.

2. Ageing population + dual-income families: Need for child-care and domestic help.

3. International population: Many expats and diplomatic households prefer workers fluent in English.

4. Legal framework: Belgium’s “single permit” system allows legal hiring of non-EU domestic workers when criteria are met.

Apply for Housemaid and Nanny Jobs in Belgium from Nigeria 2025/2026

Visa and Work Permit Requirements for Nigerians

The “Single Permit”

Any Nigerian planning to work in Belgium as a housemaid or nanny for more than 90 days needs a single permit, which combines a residence permit and work authorisation. The employer or agency applies to the regional authority (Brussels, Flanders, or Wallonia). Once approved, you apply for a long-stay visa (Type D) at the Belgian Embassy in Abuja or Consulate in Lagos.

Official portals:

• Working in Belgium – Single Permit

• Immigration Office – Domestic Servants

• Regional economy/employment websites.

Documents You’ll Need

1. Valid Nigerian passport

2. Signed Belgian employment contract

3. Medical certificate

4. Police clearance certificate

5. Proof of accommodation (employer provides for live-in jobs)

6. Proof of qualification or experience (childcare, housework)

7. Visa application form and fee

Salary, Benefits and Working Conditions

Belgium sets minimum wages under collective labour agreements. As of 2025:

• Housemaid or domestic worker: around €1,900 – €2,200 gross/month.

• Nanny with experience or additional language skills: up to €2,500 gross/month.

Live-in roles: accommodation and sometimes meals included. By law, in-kind benefits (lodging, food) have capped deduction values, and must be written in the contract.

Social Security: A legal contract means you and your employer contribute to Belgium’s social security, entitling you to healthcare, paid leave, and pension accrual.

Who Can Apply from Nigeria?

1. Age 21–55 preferred.

2. At least secondary education; childcare training is a plus.

3. Good command of English; basic French or Dutch helpful.

4. Clean criminal record and good health.

5. Experience as nanny, babysitter, domestic worker, or caregiver increases chances.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

Step 1: Research Legitimate Job Offers

Use:

• Official Belgian employment portals.

• Licensed recruitment agencies registered in Belgium.

• International job boards with verified employers (e.g. EURES for EU, reputable global domestic work platforms).

Avoid Facebook or WhatsApp ads promising “visa first, job later.”

Step 2: Prepare a Professional CV and Cover Letter

Highlight childcare or housekeeping experience, languages spoken, references, certificates. Include a professional photo.

Step 3: Employer Applies for the Single Permit

Your prospective Belgian employer submits the application with your documents to the appropriate regional authority.

Step 4: Apply for the Visa at the Belgian Embassy in Nigeria

Once the permit is approved, you submit your visa application (Type D) with the embassy or a VFS centre. Pay the visa fee and provide biometrics.

Step 5: Travel to Belgium and Register

On arrival, register at the local commune, obtain your residence card, and start work.

Step 6: Renewal and Long-Term Options

Renew your single permit before it expires. After several years of legal work, you may qualify for long-term residence.

Top Belgian Regions for Housemaid and Nanny Jobs

• Brussels-Capital Region – high demand from international organisations, embassies, expat families.

• Antwerp and Ghent (Flanders) – busy urban centres with growing families.

• Wallonia (Liège, Namur) – need for bilingual housemaids and nannies.

Training and Language Tips

Learning basic French or Dutch significantly improves employability. Short caregiving or childcare courses in Nigeria also strengthen your application.

Apply for Housemaid and Nanny Jobs in Belgium from Nigeria 2025/2026

Avoiding Scams

1. No legitimate Belgian employer asks you to pay for a work permit.

2. Verify agency licence numbers on Belgian regional websites.

3. Always insist on a signed contract before paying any money.

4. Keep copies of all communications and documents.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is visa sponsorship really free?
Employers normally pay for the work permit. You still pay for your passport, visa fee, and medical certificate.

Can I go on a tourist visa and then switch?
Belgium generally does not allow status change from tourist to worker. Secure the job and permit before travelling.

Can I bring my children?
Not immediately. Family reunification is possible after you have legal residence and sufficient income.

How long does the process take?
Up to 4 months from permit application to visa issuance.

Action Plan for Nigerians

1. Gather your documents now: passport, police clearance, medical certificate.

2. Create a strong CV and cover letter.

3. Learn basic French or Dutch phrases.

4. Search only verified job boards or agencies.

5. Ensure the employer applies for your single permit before you pay any fees.

6. Apply for your visa promptly once the permit is approved.

Conclusion

With proper preparation and by using official channels, Nigerians can legally secure housemaid or nanny jobs in Belgium. The single permit system, clear contracts and social protections make Belgium one of the safer European destinations for domestic and childcare work. Focus on language, training, and verified employers to increase your chances. This 2025/2026 guide equips you with the knowledge to move from interest to action and begin a stable career abroad.