MR and Vooruit Deadlocked Over Flexi-Jobs and Vape Flavor Ban

Political tensions have emerged between the MR and Vooruit parties regarding a proposed expansion of the flexi-job system and a ban on flavored vapes, according to reporting by De Standaard.

The dispute centers on the regulatory framework of flexi-jobs, a Belgian employment model that allows specific categories of workers to earn additional income without the standard deductions for taxes and social security contributions.

The Flexi-Job Mechanism and Financial Limits

The flexi-job system is designed to allow retirees and certain employees to supplement their income under favorable conditions. For an employee to qualify, they must have worked at least 4/5 for one or more employers in the third quarter preceding the start of the flexi-job.

For the 2026 income year, the tax-free limit for flexi-job earnings is 18,880 euros. When earnings remain within this threshold, the gross wage is equal to the net wage, as the worker pays no taxes or social contributions on the extra income. Flexi-job employees continue to build social rights, including pension and unemployment benefits.

From a corporate perspective, the system provides a cost-effective way for employers to scale their workforce during peak periods. Employers pay a reduced contribution rate of 25% on top of the flexi-jobber’s salary.

Sector Expansion and Proposed Changes

The availability of flexi-jobs is restricted to specific sectors. Since 2024, the list of eligible sectors has been expanded to include:

• Education and childcare
• Public sport and culture sector
• Agriculture and gardening
• Buses and coaches
• The automotive sector
• The food industry
• Funeral services
• Moving services
• Driving schools
• The event sector
• The real estate sector

Beyond these additions, there are proposals to further expand the system. According to information from the ACV, there are plans to allow flexi-jobs across all sectors, with a target implementation date in the summer of 2026.

Political Deadlock

The proposal to open flexi-jobs to all sectors has become a point of contention between the MR and Vooruit parties. This policy disagreement, combined with a dispute over a ban on flavored vapes, has resulted in a political deadlock between the two entities.

While the ACV provides support to workers and retirees navigating these rules, the union has expressed a critical stance regarding the proposed expansion of the system.