What is Article 60?

Article 60 is a social employment program run by the CPAS/OCMW (Public Centre for Social Welfare) in Belgium.
It helps people who receive social assistance (called Revenu d’intégration or living wage) and do not yet qualify for unemployment benefits to gain work experience and reintegrate into the labour market.

🧩 How it works

• The CPAS officially employs you under an Article 60 contract.
• You can work in a municipality, public service, school, library, or non-profit organization (ASBL).
• Your salary is paid through the CPAS, and you maintain your social status while working.
• The contract usually lasts from 6 months up to 2 years, depending on your personal situation.

🎯 Why it matters

The goal of Article 60 is to help you rebuild your entitlement to unemployment benefits.
After completing your contract, you will:

• gain valuable work experience in Belgium,
• qualify for unemployment benefits (if other conditions are met),
• and have better chances of finding a permanent job.

👥 Who can participate

• People currently receiving social assistance (revenu d’intégration).
• Ukrainians under temporary protection may also be eligible if they face difficulties entering the labour market.
• Each case is assessed individually by your social worker at the CPAS.

📍 Where to apply

You should contact the CPAS of the commune where you live (for example, CPAS Bruxelles, CPAS Ixelles, CPAS Schaerbeek, etc.).
A social worker will explain the conditions and help you set up an Article 60 contract if you are eligible.

💡 Tip

If you are already volunteering or active in your community, tell your social worker about it — this can help you find a position that matches your skills and interests.
CPAS often supports motivated people who show a genuine willingness to work and integrate.