Flexi-job Flanders 2025: What Is Changing and How Do You Keep Earning Flexibly on the Side?

The debate about flexi-jobs in Flanders is once again firmly in the spotlight. While thousands of people use this system to earn extra income flexibly alongside their main job, far-reaching changes may be on the way. The political wind is shifting, and that could have direct consequences for everyone who generates extra income through flexi-jobs.

For anyone who wants to work flexibly through platforms such as AnyShift, it is important to understand what may be coming. In this blog we explain which changes are being proposed, what the impact could be on your ability to earn extra income, and how you can best prepare for the future of flexible work in Flanders.

Whether you are a student, work full-time and want to earn extra, or want to stay active as a pensioner, the coming months could be decisive for how flexi-jobs look in the years ahead.

What Is Currently Up for Debate?

The Belgian government is taking a critical look at the current flexi-job system. Various politicians and parties have put forward proposals to adjust the system. The main points of discussion revolve around the costs for employers and the tax treatment of flexi-jobbers.

Proposed Changes to the System

One of the most discussed proposals comes from opposition parties calling for an increase in employer contributions. At present, employers pay relatively low social security contributions for flexi-jobbers, but there are voices wanting this percentage to rise to 28%. In addition, various ministers are also considering adjustments to the tax benefits.

The current system allows people to earn up to 18,000 euros per year through flexi-jobs under favourable tax conditions and lower social security charges. This setup makes it attractive for both employers and employees, but according to some policymakers the system is becoming too expensive for the public purse.

Why These Changes Now?

The timing has to do with broader budgetary discussions and the question of how the government wants to organise labour flexibility. Some parties feel the current system is too generous and that alternatives are needed. Others warn that stricter rules could push entire sectors into trouble.

The Reality for Employers and Their Choices

Recent research by social security organisations shows that changes to the flexi-job system could have far-reaching consequences. A survey of employers brought telling figures to light: no fewer than 82% of the companies that now use flexi-jobbers say they would abandon the system if costs rise significantly.

Why Is This Important for You?

As a jobseeker or someone earning on the side, this means there may be fewer flexi-job opportunities available. Sectors such as hospitality, retail and events rely heavily on the flexibility that flexi-jobs provide. These companies often plan their staffing around peak periods, weekends and events, precisely the moments when many people are keen to work extra.

If employers were to stop offering flexi-jobs on a massive scale, a gap would emerge in the market. For students who want to work at the weekend, parents who are available a few evenings a month, or pensioners who want to stay active, this would mean fewer opportunities to earn extra on their own terms.

Alternative Scenarios

Companies could switch to other arrangements, such as temporary contracts or on-call workers. However, these alternatives often offer less flexibility for the employee and are administratively more complex. There is a chance that employers will simply use fewer people or have permanent staff work more hours, which would considerably shrink the flexible labour market.

What Does This Mean for Your Options to Earn Extra?

The potential changes could affect different groups of jobseekers in various ways. It is important to understand how your situation could change.

For Students

Students often use flexi-jobs to combine their studies with work. Through platforms such as AnyShift for student jobs they find shifts that fit their class schedule. If fewer flexi-job opportunities become available, competition for the available jobs increases. It can then be smarter to keep your options open and be available for work at different locations.

For Full-Time Employees Earning on the Side

People with a full-time main job who like to earn extra make up a large group of flexi-jobbers. They often work in the evenings or at weekends in sectors other than their regular job. For this group, the favourable tax regime is especially attractive. Possible adjustments to it could mean that earning on the side becomes financially less interesting, so you would have to weigh up whether the extra hours still outweigh the reward.

For Pensioners and People Outside the Labour Market

Flexi-jobs give pensioners the chance to stay active and supplement their income without putting their pension at risk. People who temporarily cannot work full-time because of family circumstances also find a solution in flexi-jobs. For these groups, a stricter system could mean it becomes harder to work at their own pace and availability.

How Do You Prepare for Changes?

Regardless of what is decided politically, as a flexible worker you can take steps to strengthen your position.

Build a Strong Profile

When opportunities are scarce, employers choose the most reliable and skilled flexi-jobbers. Make sure your profile on platforms such as AnyShift is fully completed. Show what experience you have, which shifts you have completed and collect positive reviews. The stronger your track record, the greater the chance you will be given priority for new shifts.

Be Flexible in Your Availability

If the supply of flexi-jobs shrinks, people who are broadly deployable get more opportunities. Consider making yourself available for different types of shifts: not only your favourite times, but also less popular moments. Companies value workers who can also step in at the last minute or be available during less attractive hours.

Develop Skills That Are in Demand

Certain sectors will always have demand for flexible workers. Think of hospitality experience, logistics, customer service or events. By developing your skills in these areas, you increase your chances. If possible, take short training courses or certifications that make you more attractive as a flexi-jobber.

Stay Informed

The situation around flexi-jobs is evolving. Follow news sources and regularly check information channels such as the AnyShift blog for updates on regulations and tips for flexible workers. That way you can respond to changes in good time and adjust your strategy.

The Role of Platforms in the Future of Flexible Work

Digital platforms that bring supply and demand together are playing an increasingly important role in the flexible labour market. No matter how the regulations evolve, the core need remains: companies need flexible workers, and people want to work on their own terms.

Benefits of Structured Platforms

Platforms such as AnyShift offer transparency and efficiency. Instead of contacting dozens of employers yourself, you find available shifts in one place, apply with a few clicks and manage your administration centrally. This only becomes more important as regulations grow more complex, since platforms can help workers navigate changing rules.

For employers facing higher costs or tightened conditions, platforms can help to plan more efficiently and pay only for the hours that are really needed. These mutual benefits ensure that the model of flexible work through platforms keeps growing, even if the specific legal form of flexi-jobs changes.

What Companies Are Looking For

Companies that work through platforms such as AnyShift for businesses are looking for reliable people who deliver quality. In a market with possible scarcity, this selection becomes stricter. So focus on building a reputation as someone who keeps their commitments, delivers quality and is flexibly available.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Future of Flexi-jobs

Many people have questions about what the possible changes mean for them. Although the future is still uncertain, there are some practical answers to give.

Will Flexi-jobs Be Abolished?

At this point there is no question of a complete abolition. The debate is about adjustments to the system, such as higher contributions or different tax treatment. Even if the current system is adjusted, the need for flexible labour will remain. The form may change, or other types of contract may be added.

Should I Stop Doing Flexi-jobs Now?

Absolutely not. As long as the current system exists, you can simply keep making use of it. It is even wise to build up experience and a network now, so that you are well positioned when changes come. Use this time to establish yourself as a reliable flexible worker.

Where Do I Find Reliable Information?

Regularly check official sources and information platforms. The frequently asked questions on platform websites often provide practical information about how flexi-jobs work and what you need to know. News sites and trade unions also publish updates on changes to labour regulations.

Conclusion: Staying Flexible in Changing Times

The future of flexi-jobs in Flanders faces challenges, but flexible work is not a passing trend. Companies will continue to need people who can step in at varying times, and many jobseekers value the freedom to decide for themselves when and how much they work.

Whatever happens with the regulations, the best strategy is to position yourself as a valuable, reliable flexible worker. Build a strong profile, stay informed of developments, and be broadly deployable. That way you increase your chances on the labour market, regardless of what form flexible work takes in the years ahead.

The question is not whether flexible work has a future, it certainly does. The question is exactly what the system will look like, and both employers and employees can influence that by demonstrating how valuable this form of cooperation is for the Flemish economy.