Belgium and Denmark opened their labour markets to Poles, five years after this country's EU accession. The decision lifts the demands for work permits and opens way to legal jobs and ensuing social securities for Poles living in Belgium and Denmark.

Click on the audio icon to listen to the report by Agnieszka Bielawska

The Belgian Labour Minister Emille Rossion announced the decision by the end of April. It lifts the labour restrictions imposed in 2004 on all new EU comers including Poland. It is estimated that there are some 100 thousand Poles currently living in Belgium with only a half of that number employed legally. The decision changes status, they are entitled to all social securities and have to  pay social contributions and taxes.

In Denmark the 10 thousand strong Polish community had a much simplified access to jobs . The official opening of the labour market does not make a big change for Poles working in Denmark since for the past three years the regulations were softened and Denmark did not demand a work permit. One thing, however, which can be an obstacle in finding employment in Denmark is that there are no jobs on offer, companies rather fire than hire.

The only countries keeping their job markets closed for Poles are Austria and Germany.Both states have filed a motion to the European Commission to prolong the transition period for two more years.