At IACA, we are proud of our years of experience offering the Private Investigator program. For years, we have welcomed Belgian clients who benefit from the unique reduction in study time. Our program consistently demonstrates high pass rates and is increasingly considered the essential foundation for both novice and experienced investigators. Our diploma opens doors in various sectors. Whether you aspire to a career in a fraud department, a municipality, a housing association, as a claims adjuster, or as an independent private investigator, this program provides a solid foundation for your professional growth.

To be recognized as a private detective in Belgium by the Ministry of the Flemish Community and the Flemish Institute for Self-Employed Entrepreneurs, training at an accredited institute is required. While Belgian institutes often offer one- to two-year programs with classes on Tuesday and Wednesday evenings, IACA allows you to complete this training in just four months!

The course consists of four interactive theory lessons, enriched with practical case studies. The lessons take place at our Gilze-Rijen location, just across the border from Turnhout, or you can choose interactive online participation for maximum flexibility.

Our exclusive IACA LMS platform offers comprehensive exercises and exam training, as well as the opportunity to communicate directly with instructors. You will have access to this platform for at least one year to support your professional development. Our instructors are experienced private investigators with over 20 years of practical experience, both domestically and internationally. Their expertise in ongoing investigations worldwide ensures you have the most up-to-date knowledge for your future work as a private investigator. 

By choosing our training program, you benefit from our years of expertise in training Belgian private detectives. Because of our extensive knowledge and experience, we also contribute to the development of the nationally used training materials. We strive not only to prepare you for the exam but also to support your professional growth, regardless of your current level of experience.

How does this abbreviated procedure work?

Belgian authorities have recognized the Dutch Private Investigator diploma through a Royal Decree. This means that if you hold the Dutch diploma, you are not required to complete the entire training program in Belgium. In such a case, you will be exempt from the following modules:

• Socio-psychological training (44 hours)
• Vocational technical training (84 hours)
• Practical exercises (132 hours)
• Final exercise (4 hours)

In summary, with the Dutch diploma, you are exempt from more than 264 hours. In Belgium, you only need to complete the Legal Education module. You won't need to attend school two evenings a week in Belgium, but you will receive the fully recognized Private Detective certificate, just like any other Belgian student who completes the full program.

To help our Belgian students obtain their Dutch diploma as quickly as possible, we've developed a special, accredited four-day training program. You'll attend classroom lessons over four days, after which you can immediately take the Dutch exam. After passing the Dutch exam, we'll immediately apply for an exemption from the Belgian modules. This way, you'll not only save a significant amount of time and money, but you'll also receive a recognized Dutch and Belgian certificate. With this certificate, you can then apply for a license to work as a private investigator.

IMPORTANT: Exemptions from new legislation from December 16, 2024

The exemptions for the private investigator (formerly known as a private detective) based on the Dutch ECABO private investigator diploma remain in effect for the time being, as stipulated in the current Royal Decree. This means you can still obtain exemptions for various modules and obtain your Belgian certificate in an accelerated manner.

The Federal Public Service Home Affairs has indicated that the current Royal Decree will remain applicable initially. Any future amendments resulting from a new Royal Decree will follow the European rules for professional qualifications. However, there is currently no certainty that the current exemptions will remain in place under the new legislation.

We therefore recommend taking advantage of the current scheme and its associated exemptions as soon as possible. This prevents any complications or adjustments in the future. Contact us for more information and guidance on this process.