Belgium introduces mandatory time tracking from 2027: what to know

Belgium is preparing a major update to its labour regulations. From 1 January 2027, companies will be required to systematically and reliably record employee working hours. This new mandatory time tracking requirement follows European legislation and will impact thousands of employers.

For business owners and HR managers, this is more than a legal obligation. It is an opportunity to improve how working time is managed, reduce administrative workload, and increase transparency across the organisation.

What is happening?

The upcoming requirement is based on a 2019 ruling by the European Court of Justice. The court stated that working time rules can only be enforced if actual working hours are measured using a system that is objective, reliable and accessible.

Most EU countries have already introduced mandatory time tracking. Belgium is now following with a national framework expected to take effect on 1 January 2027. The aim is not to impose rigid systems such as traditional punch clocks. Instead, businesses remain free to choose how they comply, as long as their system meets the required standards.

In practice, this means companies will need a system that:

• records when and how many hours employees work

• stores this information in a reliable and tamper-resistant way

• makes records accessible in case of inspections or disputes

What will likely be required in Belgium?

Although the final legal text is still pending, companies in Belgium will likely need to ensure:

Accurate and complete records

• clear overview of working hours

• visibility of overtime

• no gaps or inconsistencies

Reliable data

• not easily manipulated

• time-stamped and linked to employees

Accessible information

• available for inspection

• stored for a defined period

Transparency

• employees can access their own working hours

What is not expected:

Belgium is expected to take a flexible approach:

• no obligation to install physical time clocks

• no single prescribed system

• no real-time reporting to authorities

What does this mean for businesses in Belgium?

For many SMEs, this requirement means moving from informal or trust-based systems to a structured and documented approach. Employers will need to ensure that working hours are recorded accurately and can be justified when required.

At the same time, this shift brings clear benefits. Structured time tracking improves visibility, reduces payroll errors and helps prevent disputes. A 2024 study found that more than half of companies surveyed incurred payroll penalties in the past five years due to non-compliance.

Starting early helps avoid last-minute changes and reduces administrative pressure closer to 2027.

How TimeMoto helps you get ready

TimeMoto helps you manage time and attendance in a practical and compliant way.

Businesses can track working hours, monitor attendance, manage absences and holidays, and generate clear reports for payroll and compliance. Scheduling and workforce planning are also included, providing a complete overview of employee time.

For business owners, this means less administrative work and better control over labour costs. For HR managers, it reduces errors and provides a clear, reliable overview of working time.

The system is intuitive and easy to use. Employees can log their hours via a web service, mobile app or on-site Time Clock, while managers maintain full visibility.

Start a free 30-day trial

Preparing for the Belgium time tracking law in 2027 starts today.

Testing a solution in your own environment helps improve processes and involve your team early.

Start a free 30-day trial with TimeMoto and discover how simple and effective time tracking can be.