Social protection and rights
Sex work under an employment contract gives access to Belgian social security, just like any other salaried employment.
Employee social security
Since the law of 3 May 2024, sex workers under an employment contract are entitled to the full social security system for employees. The accredited employer must register with the National Social Security Office and pay social contributions.
What you are entitled to
- Health and disability insurance — reimbursement of healthcare costs, sickness benefits
- Pension — accrual of retirement pension rights
- Unemployment — unemployment benefits in case of job loss
- Family allowances
- Workplace accident insurance — coverage in case of an accident at the workplace
- Annual leave — right to paid leave
Sector-specific rights
- Right of refusal without loss of pay — a worker who refuses an act or a client retains their right to pay (art. 7, §2)
- Protection against dismissal — 6 months' compensation if dismissal is linked to the exercise of the right of refusal (art. 7, §6)
- Free departure — termination of the contract without notice or compensation at any time (art. 8)
- Well-being at work — application of the law of 4 August 1996, including the prevention of psychosocial risks
Self-employed workers
Sex workers practising under self-employed status have access to the self-employed social security system: pension, health and disability insurance, family allowances, and the bridging right in case of cessation of activity. However, they do not have access to unemployment benefits and must manage their own social contributions and tax obligations.