Irregular migrants and work in Belgium: a case study

Abstract

Abstract Although not allowed to work legally in Belgium, irregular migrants benefit from a range of rights, including a minimum wage, a limit on the number of hours they can work per week and access to health care. Alongside “traditional” sectors of irregular work (building, domestic staff, hotel and catering, cleaning), there are a growing number of irregular migrants employed as bicycle delivery riders. In order to benefit from access to healthcare, migrants must undergo a social investigation by the public authorities: this investigation assesses, among other things, whether the person has an income. This is a paradox: the migrant is entitled to the minimum wage but having an income may prevent him or her from receiving care as an irregular resident. During this presentation, we will explore the current situation facing irregular migrants in Belgium and the role of professional unions and health care professionals.