Flexi-jobs have existed since 2015 and were, for many years, limited to a select number of sectors such as hospitality and retail. That is about to change — and the change is significant.
All sectors open, with an opt-out system
Going forward, every private and public sector will automatically be open to flexi-job employment. Artistic functions remain the only category explicitly excluded. Sectors that do not wish to participate can choose to exclude or limit flexi-jobs through an opt-out system. The decision therefore remains with the social partners.
What this means for employers:
- Sectors that could previously only recruit through temporary agency work or permanent contracts will gain a third recruitment channel.
- Seasonal peaks can now also be managed by hiring flexi-job workers.
More flexible eligibility conditions
The rules for working as a flexi-job employee will be relaxed in three key areas:
- Retirees will no longer need to meet the 4/5 employment requirement.
- Employees working full-time for a company (including through temporary agency work) will be allowed to take on a flexi-job with another company within the same group.
- Make greater use of your existing workforce. Full-time and 4/5 employees who would like to earn extra income will soon be able to do so under the flexi-job status within your own company, provided the legal conditions are met.
Adjustment of the maximum hourly wage
Until now, the 150% wage ceiling applied to the entire flexi-job remuneration package, including bonuses and allowances. This is changing:
- All sectors (except hospitality): the 150% ceiling will apply only to the basic wage, no longer to the total flexi-job remuneration including bonuses and allowances.
- Hospitality sector: a specific maximum of €21 per hour will apply, subject to indexation. A sectoral collective labour agreement may provide exceptions.
This gives employers more flexibility to grant bonuses and allowances on top of the basic wage without exceeding the legal ceiling.
Questions about flexi-jobs? Feel free to contact one of our offices. As experts, we closely monitor legislative developments and would be happy to discuss how these new legal changes can benefit your business.