Flexi-jobs in 2025: expansion into more sectors, higher ceilings and what this means for Flanders

Update 15 October 2026: this article has been checked against the 2026 figures. Student workers may work 650 hours a year at a 2.71 percent contribution, and since May 2026 light work is allowed from age 15. Flexi-jobbers earn tax-free up to 18,440 euros a year; the minimum flexi hourly wage in hospitality has been 12.11 euros since 1 September 2026 (13.04 euros including holiday pay) and the maximum is 21.00 euros (22.61 euros including holiday pay). Since 1 July 2026 flexi-jobs are possible in almost all sectors. The full 2026 rules are in our guide on the flexi-job hourly wage, rules and ceiling: anyshift.be

Demand for flexi-jobs is peaking. A recent survey of 1,453 business owners shows that 8 out of 10 employers would use flexi-jobs if their sector allowed it. 42.7% still report staff shortages. Flexible workers help cover peak hours and give planners breathing room.

Since 2015 the system has grown into a fixture. In 2024, 229,423 Belgians held a flexi-job. That is +19.1% compared to 2023.

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What is changing in 2025?

1) Broader access per sector

The new federal government opened the door: since 1 July 2026 flexi-jobs have been possible everywhere in principle, with an opt-out per sector. This extends their use beyond the classic sectors such as hospitality and retail.

In practice: employers in logistics, events, administration and parts of industry can more easily deploy flexible shifts to absorb peaks.

2) Employer cost and pay rules

The special RSZ employer contribution for flexi-jobs is 28%. The increase from 25% to 28% was already introduced in 2024 and continues to apply in 2025.

Flexi-jobbers receive the sectoral minimum wage. Exception: hospitality works with a separate flexi minimum wage. In 2025 it was €11.64/hour (€12.53 including holiday pay) from 1 February 2025; since 1 September 2026 it has been €12.11/hour (€13.04 including holiday pay). In addition, a general upper limit applies: the flexi wage may not exceed 150% of the scale wage. Since 1 July 2026 sectors may no longer set a different maximum, and hospitality has a fixed maximum of €21.00/hour (€22.61 including holiday pay). Inspectors check this.

3) Earning extra tax-free for employees

For non-pensioners, the tax-free limit rose to €18,000 per year for 2025, indexed to €18,440 in 2026. This makes the system financially more attractive for anyone already working 4/5 and wanting to earn extra. For pensioners, there is no ceiling.

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Why demand is so high

• Staff shortages remain persistent: 42.7% of companies are affected.
• Operational agility: temporary busy periods, seasonal peaks, openings or stocktaking call for people who can be deployed quickly.
• Scheduling pressure: flexi-jobs make it easier to let permanent staff take their leave while safeguarding service levels.

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Who are flexi-jobs for?

• Employees who work at least 4/5 elsewhere during the reference quarter.
• Pensioners, who can earn extra without a ceiling.
• Students fall under separate rules and tend to use student contracts instead.

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Impact for employers: costs, risks, checks

Cost structure

• Pay according to sectoral pay scales (or the hospitality wage) + 7.67% flexi holiday pay, with 28% employer contribution on top.
• Allowances for night work, Sundays and public holidays remain in force.

Compliance and ceilings

• Keep an eye on the €18,440 ceiling (2026) for non-pensioners.
• Respect the 150% limit on the flexi wage (hospitality: max. €21.00/hour) and the sector rules.
• Flexi work does not qualify for contribution reductions.

Operational

• Schedule flexi shifts during peak hours.
• Use a platform with screening, scheduling and payroll integration to avoid errors and delays.

👉 Businesses: start here to find shifters fast via AnyShift.
anyshift.be/bedrijven

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Impact for job seekers and people earning extra

• Net = gross: no employee contributions and no payroll withholding tax are deducted from the flexi wage.
• More room to earn extra thanks to the €18,440 ceiling (2026).
• Clear sectoral pay scales or the hospitality wage as a floor.

👉 Shifters: create your profile, pick shifts near you and build up a score.
anyshift.be/shifters

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Looking ahead: how will flexi-jobs evolve after 2025?

1) Mainstream use across sectors

With the opt-out model, flexi-jobs shift from a niche to a standard tool. Through the opt-out (Royal Decree of 30 August 2026), only agriculture, horticulture, domestic work, funeral directors and sea fishing remain largely excluded, as do artistic functions. Expect wider use in logistics, e-commerce, retail and events.

2) Tighter rules and more checks

The 150% limit and inspections continue to safeguard pay discipline. Employers must keep their pay policy and Dimona/DMFA declarations technically flawless.

3) Digital-first scheduling

Matching and scheduling are moving to real time. Employers expect short-notice fulfilment and skills matching. Shifters want an app experience with clear pay and fast payouts. Platforms with payroll partners and minimum-wage checks are gaining ground.

4) New profiles entering the market

Alongside pensioners and 4/5 employees, full-time workers with variable rosters and career switchers can also join more easily, as long as the 4/5 condition is met. At the same time, an ageing population is fuelling more interest among people over 65.

5) Data-driven policy

RSZ statistics make the effects on employment and income visible. Expect adjustments if abuse or improper use emerges.

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Getting started with AnyShift: practical steps

• Shifters: sign up, choose sectors and availability.
  • anyshift.be/studentenjobs
  • anyshift.be/shifters
• Businesses: register, put shifts live, and match with screened profiles.
  • anyshift.be/bedrijven
• Download the app
  • iOS: App Store
  • Android: Google Play

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Further reading and frequently asked questions

• Frequently asked questions
• Blogs
• Jobs by location and sector

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Sources

• Liantis survey: 8 out of 10 employers would use flexi-jobs; 42.7% experience staff shortages.
• RSZ: 229,423 flexi-jobbers in 2024; annual statistics and news.
• Employer contribution 28% and 2024 increase 25% → 28%.
• €18,000 tax-free limit for non-pensioners in 2025, €18,440 in 2026.
• Sectoral minimum wage applies, hospitality with a separate flexi minimum; €12.53/hour in 2025 and €13.04/hour since 1 September 2026 (including holiday pay).
• 150% ceiling on the flexi wage and inspection.
• Opt-out model and expansion into more sectors since 1 July 2026.

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📲 Want to work flexibly yourself or look for shifters?

Then download the free AnyShift app:

• 📱 App Store (iPhone)
• 📱 Google Play Store (Android)

👉 Want even more tips and insights? Discover our blogs.

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Student job 2025: more than pocket money

In Flanders you can start a student job from the age of 16, and since May 2026 from 15 for light work. What used to be seen mainly as a temporary activity during the summer holidays has today grown into a structural part of the labour market. Young people combine their studies with work experience, giving them quicker insight into their talents and interests.

Finding a student job is not always easy. Thanks to digital platforms such as AnyShift.be, the barrier is much lower. In a few clicks you discover which jobs are available in retail, hospitality or logistics. So you decide for yourself whether you work a weekend shift, work during the holidays, or prefer to take on a short assignment nearby.

👉 Discover our student jobs here.