Why a time registration?
A time registration is necessary because the European working time directive requires Member States to have a system that ensures compliance with working and rest hours. The Court of Justice has clarified that this must be based on an objective and reliable registration system. Most European countries have already implemented this, but Belgium has not yet. Therefore, the government decided in the budget agreement to make time registration mandatory. This will also ensure that Belgium meets its European obligations.
Read more: "Time registration mandatory from 2027"
Is the time clock being reintroduced?
No, that is not the case. The government has stated several times that this is not the intention. This was also included in a draft resolution regarding time registration.
It states: “When we talk about the registration of working time, we do not necessarily mean time clock systems but rather a way to measure working time”.
Read more: draft resolution for the implementation of the working time directive"
Towards more administration?
It is not the government's intention to add an extra layer of administrative requirements to the existing labour organisation that would only increase complexity.
That is why user-friendly systems are important, which can be easily integrated into existing HR processes, for every type of company.
Securex consciously follows one clear approach in this context: to relieve employers as much as possible by allowing time registration to affiliate with the existing Securex landscape of digital tools, or valuable alternatives, with maximum freedom of choice. Many organisations already use Securex solutions today for payroll administration and HR management, which allows us to build on this logically. This way, time registration connects seamlessly to current processes, we avoid double administration, and data flows automatically and correctly to payroll administration and social-legal management.
Where do we currently stand?
In the meantime, a draft bill has been prepared. It is now with the National Labour Council and will then be further discussed in the Council of Ministers. After that, it still needs to be approved by Parliament and published in the Moniteur belge. The final legislation is therefore still in preparation.
Securex is closely monitoring developments and will continue to guide you with clear, practical, and useful information.
What does Securex do for you?
Securex helps you to be legally in order by 2027, with as little extra complexity as possible and with solutions that fit your organisation.
For more information about time registration, you can always contact your legal advisor via Myhr@securex.be.
