Moving to Belgium
Belgium is known for its famous chocolates, waffles, and beers, which are delights for food enthusiasts around the world. But what else does it have to offer? And what would it be like to actually live there?
Keep reading and gain a deeper understanding of the diverse country.
Popular cities in Belgium
Life in Belgium
Living in Belgium offers an enriching experience that consists of history, culture, and a high standard of living. The country’s central location in Europe allows easy access to bordering countries and diverse cultural experiences. Belgium’s cities, such as Brussels, Bruges, and Antwerp, are known for their architectural beauty, vibrant atmosphere, and rich artistic heritage.
The country’s efficient public transportation network makes commuting and exploring its picturesque landscapes, including the Ardennes and the Belgian coast, a breeze.
Quick facts about working in Belgium
- Average working hours per week: 38 hours, option of 4 day work week
- Typical working day: Monday to Friday from 8:00-9:00 am to 5:00 or 6:00 pm
- Number of Vacation days: 20 -24 days
- Commute: Mostly by bus, or train/metro
- Work culture: Relatively flat hierarchy but with attention to being punctual.
Quick info about Belgium
Typical food
All kinds of Belgian chocolate, belgian waffles, waterzooi, moules frites, tarte al d'jote, stoemp, lapin ä la Tournaisienne
Population
~11.59 million people
Location
Belgium is in the western Europe and borders the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg and France. The capital city is Brussels.
Languages
French, German, Dutch (Flemish)
Famous people
Jean-Claude Van Damme, Stromae, Matthias Schoenaerts
Currency
Euro (€)
Avg. working week
38 hours
7 to 8 hours daily, possible with 4 day work week.
Healthcare
Belgian healthcare is ranked high on a global scale. It is paid for via social insurance contributions.
Other countries nearby
FAQ
No, EU, EEA and Swiss citizens do not need a work permit to start working in Belgium. You can read all about it here.
There are three languages officially spoken in Belgium: German, French and Dutch. But German is not used in public administration. The majority of people in Belgium also speak fluent English, so there’s not exactly a language barrier, however, if you plan to stay in Belgium for a long period of time and get a stable job, we recommend you to learn the language, especially French, since this will open many doors for you in the job market. You can find in each city of Belgium free courses for newcomers, so don’t hesitate to look for the most convenient for you.
In Belgium, temperatures can vary throughout the year. In winter, temperatures range from around 0°C to 5°C, while summers can see temperatures between 20°C to 25°C. Spring and autumn have mild temperatures, usually between 10°C to 15°C. Rainfall is spread throughout the year, and the coastal regions tend to be slightly milder than inland areas. Overall, Belgium experiences a temperate maritime climate with no extreme weather conditions.
Belgium has an efficient and well-connected transportation system. You can easily get around by train, with the national railway offering extensive services. Buses and trams are available in cities for local travel. Major cities also have bike-sharing schemes and well-maintained cycling paths. Driving is an option, but traffic can be congested. Walking is enjoyable, especially in charming towns and cities.
Belgium has a high-quality healthcare system, known for its accessibility and comprehensive coverage. It is primarily funded through compulsory health insurance contributions. Patients have access to a wide range of medical services, and there is a good balance between public and private healthcare providers. The country consistently ranks well in healthcare indicators and offers excellent medical facilities for residents and visitors alike.
Still not convinced about Belgium?
Belgium embraces its multicultural society, fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment. Festivals, events, and museums celebrate the country’s history and artistic contributions.
Belgium is one of the most sought places to live for expats, it has a particularly low cost of life compared with other European countries, great work benefits that includes foreigners, they even have special tax permissions for foreigners to make easier their migration process and the language barrier is almost none with 3 official languages and the majority of the population speaking a 4th one including English
Furthermore, Belgium has a strong economy with numerous job opportunities, especially in sectors like technology, finance, and logistics.
So, whether you’re into the old-world charm, modern convenience, the rich cultural tapestry, or the vibrant lifestyle, Belgium offers a harmonious blend of it all. Also, it provides the base of a dynamic living experience that caters to diverse interests and aspirations.
Speak to one of our recruiters
