Moving to Belgium

What do I need to know before moving to Belgium?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Belgium, they said:

"Expats should be aware that Belgium is a multilingual country, with Dutch, French, and German being the three official languages. It is important to learn at least one of these languages before moving to Belgium. Expats should also be aware that Belgium has a high cost of living, so it is important to budget accordingly. Additionally, Belgium has a complex tax system, so it is important to research the tax laws before moving. Finally, expats should be aware that Belgium has a strong cultural identity, so it is important to respect local customs and traditions," said one expat in Belgium.

"I wish I'd moved to Bruges years ago. It's a tiny place and all neighbourhoods seem very safe, clean and friendly. I'm not sure about the surrounding areas, but I'd definitely suggest the centre of Bruges or at least within the 8000 postcode. Also, I'd advise paying the estate agent's commission. They'll help you with translation of documents and with setting up your utility bills, etc. Well worth the fee," remarked one expat who made the move to Bruges.

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How do I find a place to live in Belgium?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Belgium is to use online resources such as websites and apps. Websites such as Immoweb, Immovlan, and Logic-Immo are popular in Belgium and offer a wide range of rental properties. Additionally, there are many Facebook groups dedicated to helping people find housing in Belgium. You can also contact local real estate agents who can help you find a place to live. Additionally, you can look for rental postings in local newspapers and on bulletin boards in supermarkets and other public places," explained one expat living in Belgium.

"I visited estate agents and one of them introduced me to my gorgeous furnished flat. It's difficult to find furnished properties for rent in Bruges. They're mostly unfurnished. I paid the commission and administrative charges happily. The rent is ludicrously cheap," said one expat in Bruges.

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We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Belgium. If you're moving to Belgium, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Belgium.

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We've partnered with Homelike, to connect expats and newcomers with temporary accommodations in Belgium. If you're moving to Belgium, rent a short-term, furnished apartment or home for the first few months from Homelike and take your time figuring out the best place to live in Belgium.

SEARCH RENTALS

What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Belgium?

"Expat homes and apartments in Belgium tend to be modern and comfortable, with plenty of natural light and open spaces. Many expats choose to live in the city center, where they can enjoy easy access to public transportation, restaurants, and other amenities. Expat apartments often come with modern appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines, as well as high-speed internet. Expats may also find that their apartments come with balconies or terraces, providing a great place to relax and enjoy the views," commented one expat who made the move to Belgium.

"I live in a rented studio. I'm not sure about where or in what type of housing other expats are living," remarked one expat in Bruges, Belgium.

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What is the average cost of housing in Belgium?

If you are thinking about moving to Belgium, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"Housing costs: rental, lower; water, sewer, heating, higher; buying a home, higher," explained one expat living in Bruges, Belgium.

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Should I buy or rent a home in Belgium?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Belgium, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Buying a home in Belgium can be a great investment, as the country has a strong economy and real estate market. However, it is important to consider the cost of buying a home in Belgium, as well as the cost of living in the area. Renting a home in Belgium can be a more affordable option, as it allows you to live in the area without the long-term commitment of buying a home. Additionally, renting a home in Belgium can give you the flexibility to move to a different area if needed. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Belgium should be based on your individual needs and financial situation," said one expat in Belgium.

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What should I pack when moving to Belgium?

We asked people living in Belgium to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Belgium, it is important to pack items that will help you feel comfortable in your new home. Consider bringing clothing for all seasons, as the weather in Belgium can vary greatly. It is also a good idea to bring any necessary documents, such as a passport, visa, and any other important paperwork. Additionally, it is wise to bring any necessary electronics, such as a laptop, phone, and charger. Finally, don't forget to bring any items that will help you feel at home, such as photos, books, and other personal items," replied a member in Belgium.

"Wished had brought: stronger sense-of-esteem, outlet (higher quality) shopping, old beloved Volvo Wished had left home: nothing," commented one expat who made the move to Bruges.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Belgium?

We asked people in Belgium if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"It is important to be aware of cultural differences when visiting Belgium. It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. It is considered rude to be late for appointments or social engagements. It is also important to dress appropriately for the occasion, as Belgians tend to dress more formally than in other countries. It is also important to be aware of the local language, as many Belgians speak both French and Dutch. It is considered impolite to speak loudly in public places, and it is important to be aware of the local etiquette when dining out. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local laws and regulations, and to respect them," explained one expat living in Belgium.

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Why do people move to Belgium?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Belgium, they responded:

"Belgium is a prosperous and culturally diverse country with a high standard of living, making it an attractive destination for expats. Its vibrant cities, picturesque countryside, and excellent healthcare system are other benefits for those considering relocation to Belgium. Additionally, Belgium has a vibrant job market and boasts a strong economy, offering plenty of opportunities for individuals looking for a new start. This, coupled with the country’s excellent transport links, makes Belgium an attractive choice for many expats. Furthermore, Belgium has a rich and diverse culture with numerous activities, festivals, and attractions that make it an ideal place to experience a new culture or lifestyle," wrote one expat living in Belgium.

"Brussels is a pleasant city, calm and easy to reach for everything, whether it is sports clubs, the city center or for simple shopping. Brussels is an international city where everyone feels at home," commented one expat who moved to Brussels.

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How are healthcare services Belgium?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Belgium, they replied:

"In Belgium, healthcare services are primarily funded by the government and include both public and private providers. The public healthcare system is highly developed and offers a range of medical treatments, such as primary care, hospitalizations for specific medical procedures, and care for long-term chronic illnesses. Health insurance is mandatory for all Belgian citizens and residents, and the public system covers most of the healthcare costs associated with these services, including prescription drugs. Foreign residents do have access to the public healthcare system, although they may have to obtain their own insurance in order to cover the cost of care up to a certain level. Expatriates in Belgium are usually required to purchase private health insurance to cover any portion of the cost not covered by the public system. The quality of Belgium's public healthcare is generally good, and the nation ranks highly in ratings of overall healthcare access and satisfaction," said one expat.

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What are medical services in Belgium like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Belgium, they replied:

"Belgium's healthcare system is highly regarded among European countries for its world-class quality of service. Belgium has a wide range of public and private health care options, and its public health system offers many advantages to its citizens, including free emergency care and free healthcare for those with a valid Belgian health insurance card. In Belgium, medical patients have access to advanced treatments, medical technology and specialized doctors. Hospitals in Belgium are equipped with state-of-the-art medical technology and experienced medical staff, while the country also boasts a large number of private medical practices. In order to utilize Belgian medical services, both expats and visitors can purchase health insurance plans that provide access to the Belgian system," remarked one expat in Belgium.

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