Start and triage
Clarify who initiates the route, which process applies and which information remains medically confidential.
Explanation
What changed under RTW 3.0?
RTW 3.0 is the common name for Belgium’s updated rules on reintegrating employees who are unable to work. The changes follow the Royal Decree of 17 December 2025 and entered into force on 1 January 2026.
An employee may request a formal trajectory at any time. An employer can initiate it with the employee’s consent or after the occupational physician has assessed work potential. Employers with at least twenty workers also face a six-month initiation duty when work potential is established for an absence that began on or after 1 January 2026.
The occupational physician remains responsible for the medical assessment. HR, managers and a non-clinical case manager organize non-medical follow-up: communication, work options, agreements and an achievable plan.
In practice
Work options
Explore adapted or alternative work using functional capabilities, role demands and the real workplace context.
Follow-up
Record actions, owners and dates so a formal plan is implemented, monitored and adjusted.
Method
A practical process alongside the formal route
The legal trajectory alone does not prevent delay. A workable process connects each formal step to day-to-day reality, from predictable contact through to a sustainable return.
Montisoro supports organizations in coordinating absence and return to work. Medical content remains with authorized medical professionals; the case manager safeguards collaboration, progress and feasibility.
- One shared overview of roles, actions and deadlines
- Clear coordination between employee, employer and occupational physician
- Concrete attention to adapted work and realistic options
- Follow-up after return to reduce the risk of relapse
Official source: Belgian Federal Public Service Employment — formal reintegration trajectory. Content checked on 24 September 2026.
Not legal or medical advice
This page provides general process information. Official rules, the occupational physician and your legal adviser remain decisive for an individual case.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
When can an employee start RTW 3.0?
An employee may request the formal trajectory at any time. The occupational physician then assesses work options within the official process.
Can an employer initiate the trajectory?
Yes, within the official conditions: with the employee’s consent or after work potential has been established. Since 2026, certain employers also have a duty to initiate within a defined period.
Does a case manager see medical diagnoses?
Not by default. Medical information belongs with authorized medical professionals. Non-clinical coordination works with functional capabilities, agreements and workplace context.
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Last content review: 24 September 2026