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," commented one expat who made the move to Belgium.
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"Be open-minded, make an effort, don't assume everything (or anything or anyone) will be as you've known before. Things WILL be more difficult; but you will be a better - bigger? broader? more understanding? tolerant? appreciative? - person as a result. As for Brussels: It's a very easy community to move into and live in (even without knowing the languages), as most people are from elsewhere in the world. I've found Belgians that work in international companies are also very open. Friendships are made quickly and easily. I will truly miss my life here when I return," remarked another expat in Brussels, Belgium.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Belgium?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Belgium?
- Will I be able to find a job in Belgium?
- What is life like in Belgium?
- What do expats in Belgium appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Belgium?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Belgium accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Belgium like?
- What are healthcare services like in Belgium?
- What are medical services in Belgium like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Belgium?
- What are emergency services like in Belgium?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Belgium?
- How are local medical facilities in Belgium?
- As a foreigner living in Belgium, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do I need to know before moving to Belgium?
If you live in Belgium, newcomers to Belgium would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
