Belgium’s Working Life Expectancy Is Rising the Fastest in Europe, but the Gap Remains Wide
August 2026 - According to recent figures from Eurostat, the expected working life expectancy in Belgium is rising faster than in any other European Union member state. Belgians are staying in the workforce longer—an average of 35.7 years—but the country still lags behind many Western European nations.
Why Belgium Is Catching Up
It is no coincidence that Belgium is showing the sharpest increase in Europe. Since February 1, 2025, the statutory retirement age has been 66. Starting in 2030, it will rise further to 67. In addition, the eligibility requirements for early retirement have been gradually tightened in recent years. Employees must remain active longer to meet the career requirements.
The employment rate among older workers is also rising. For years, Belgium struggled with relatively early exits from the labor market through bridge pensions, early retirement, or other exit schemes, but today, more and more people in their 50s and 60s are staying in the workforce.
This combination directly translates into a longer expected career.
From a Low Base to Strong Growth
While Belgium is indeed the fastest-growing country in Europe, it is starting from a relatively low base. With an expected career duration of 35.7 years, our country still lags nearly two years behind the European average and hovers in the bottom quartile of the EU rankings. We are therefore starting from a lower baseline than countries such as the Netherlands, Germany, Sweden, or Denmark. In those countries, the employment rate among older workers has been significantly higher for much longer. Moreover, they have labor markets in which part-time work, continuing education, and flexible career paths are better established.
What does this mean for employers?
For companies, the composition of the workforce is changing dramatically. Companies are increasingly retaining experienced employees for longer periods. This presents opportunities, but also brings new challenges.
Employers will need to place greater emphasis on:
lifelong learning and ongoing training
ergonomic workstations and preventive measures
flexible work arrangements
knowledge transfer between experienced and younger employees
tailored talent management for different generations.
Companies that succeed in keeping older employees motivated and employable not only build up valuable expertise but also strengthen their position in an increasingly tight labor market.
