Increase in meal vouchers to €10 in 2026

Starting from January 1, 2026, the maximum value of meal vouchers in Belgium will increase from €8 to €10 per working day. This measure was approved during the Council of Ministers on October 10, 2025.

Details of the increase

• The face value of meal vouchers will rise to €10/day.
• The maximum contribution from the employer, exempt from social security contributions (ONSS), will increase: it will go from €6.91 to €8.91 per voucher, providing greater tax deductibility.
• However, this increase will only take effect if the employer decides to implement it; it will not happen automatically.

Implications for employers and employees

• Labor cost: the increase in the value of the meal vouchers may involve a higher cost for the employer. However, part of this extra cost will be mitigated by the improved tax deductibility.
• Attractiveness of the company: offering €10 meal vouchers per day is a tangible benefit for employees, enhancing motivation, loyalty, and the employer’s image in a competitive labor market.
• Implementation delay: although the measure will take effect in 2026, it requires a decision (and often a sectoral or internal negotiation) to be implemented. This delay allows employers time to prepare and plan.

Practical advice

• Check whether your sector or company has a collective labor agreement regarding meal vouchers: the increase may require a collective agreement.
• If meal vouchers are mentioned in individual contracts, the employer can decide alone on the increase in value.
• Calculate the financial impact now: a difference of €2 per voucher can represent a significant additional cost over the year.
• Communicate clearly with employees: the increase could be seen as an alternative benefit to a salary increase, requiring a good explanation.

Why this measure?

The government justifies this increase as a way to strengthen workers’ purchasing power, linked to inflation and rising food costs. Meal vouchers thus become a tool for employer recognition and economic support.